DIY DO35 V3PLUS INSTALLATION!
The Al-Ko Off-Road Ball Coupling is available
in a ‘fixed’ configuration for vans with electric
brakes, and an override configuration for vans
with mechanical override brakes. The fixed
version is rated to 3500kg, while the override
version is rated to 2000kg.
One aspect of this coupling that I particularly
appreciate is the fact it is quite possible to
hitch up at a less-than-straight angle, and the
self-guiding characteristics of the traditional
ball coupling are mostly retained in this unit.
This alone is a real benefit – some pin
couplings will self-guide somewhat, but not to
the same extent.
The second generation of this coupling was
launched in 2017. The original head design
was improved upon in terms of operation and
construction. Al-Ko received some user
reports that it was difficult to hitch and
unhitch on uneven ground.
The construction of the head (which houses
the ball) has been completely transformed to
alleviate this issue, with the coupling’s
‘tongue’ modified to engage with the ball
easier. The plastic components found on the
first version have been replaced – the body,
head and T handle are forged from ductile iron
(a graphite-rich iron that is much more impact
and fatigue-resistant than cast iron). A hole
for a padlock has been added.
Finally, the Al-Ko Off-Road Ball Coupling can
be retrofitted, is compatible with weight
distribution hitches (which should be removed
when towing offroad), and is reasonably priced.
RRP: $445 (3500kg version to suit
electric brakes); $499 (2000kg version to
suit hydraulic/mechanical brakes)
MORE INFO
www.alko.com.au