The Lada Largus station wagon was created with an eye on practical owners, for whom the car's capacity is in the foreground. Depending on the body version and configuration, this model can accommodate from five to seven passengers, including the driver. At the same time, the cargo space remains at 560 liters (5-seater version). If you fold the backs of the rear seat row, the useful volume for luggage increases to an unprecedented 2350 liters. When the owner doesn’t have enough space, he can easily install a luggage compartment on top of the roof.
Many Lada Largus owners do not want to sacrifice luggage compartment space for the sake of the desire to seat a “full complement” of passengers in the cabin. What compromise can be found in this situation? There is an exit! It's a trailer! It is connected to the car using a special coupling device called a tow bar. Therefore, many car owners are interested in installing a towbar, and even doing it themselves, and we’ll tell you about this.
Main parameters of towbars
Such coupling modules exist in several design types. They are classified according to basic technical characteristics. For passenger cars, the following types of ball-shaped coupling elements are distinguished:
- categories “A”, “H” (maximum load-bearing capacity of the trailer - up to 150 kg of cargo);
- types “F”, “G” (trailer load capacity reaches 3500 kg and in addition there is the ability to adjust the height of the fasteners);
- type “V” (devices are not adjustable, but the load capacity approaches a maximum of 2500 kg);
- category “VMA” (have quick-release fasteners of the vertical type).
Among practical car enthusiasts, it was the last of the considered types of coupling devices that received maximum popularity.
Depending on the mounting method, the tow bar is divided into:
- non-removable components (here the hook is rigidly fixed by welding);
- removable products where the working hook is attached using bolted joints or a special device.
Before choosing a towbar for the Lada Largus, you need to decide on the type of trailer and the weight of the most frequently transported cargo. You should not strive to achieve loads in excess of the regulatory values specified in the device passport, since increased material stresses are transferred to the car body, inevitably causing deformations. For your information! The factory coupling element for Lada Largus can withstand a peak traction force of 1300 kg, and the maximum vertically applied load on the product is 75 kg.
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Features of the circuit connection of the towbar connector in modern cars
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Cars produced before 2000 used analog circuits for controlling rear light devices. The greatest difficulty during connection is the correct determination of the location where the corresponding conductor is connected.
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Many car enthusiasts carried out this work using the “poke” method, sequentially connecting the contacts of the trailer connector to the indicator lamp. With the advent of digital control circuits for lighting devices and other electrical equipment of the car, this method has become dangerous.
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Video - connecting the towbar wiring on a Nissan Note:
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Digital control of electrical equipment assumes that thick conductors do not go directly to the light devices from the steering “dragonfly”, “frog”, relays and other switches to the tail lights, stops and other light devices. The supply voltage and digital control signals are received there.
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A simple twist-type connection to the tail light conductors is inappropriate here. Even if you connect directly to the rear headlights, which are now mostly LED, it is not a fact that the electronics will not display an error message and turn off these lights altogether, since the current consumption will be exceeded.
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In this regard, matching units are used to connect the towbar electronics in modern cars.
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They are equipped with a set of necessary conductors and a connection diagram. The description of matching blocks must contain a list of cars with which the block is compatible.
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There are diagrams of homemade devices on the Internet. If you want to experiment, you can purchase an inexpensive amateur radio kit:
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The connection diagram for such blocks is shown in a generalized form. You have to determine the specific wire routing yourself.
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Video - UniKIT 2 connection diagram for Baltex tow bar:
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How to install a coupling product?
The sequence of installation steps is reflected in the technical manual, which is necessarily attached to the towbar itself. In general terms, the algorithm looks like this.
- We empty the luggage compartment of the Lada Largus from excess luggage.
- The car is hung with a lifting device, and in its absence it is installed above the pit.
- The on-board network is de-energized by “resetting” the terminals from the battery terminals.
- To gain access to the working area of the bottom, we dismantle the thermal protection and loosen the muffler fasteners.
- It is recommended to purchase and install devices whose design is adapted for installation specifically on the LADA Largus body, since the corresponding holes are already made in the stern side members. They are not difficult to find; they are closed with special plugs.
- To secure the product, the delivery set includes a set of fasteners.
Advice! When installing, treat both standard and drilled mounting holes with anti-corrosion substances.
Regarding the device for LADA Largus, we note that this product has a U-shaped design, the legs of which must be fixed to the car body components, and in the middle part of the existing cross member there is a mounting area for a hook. Some modifications of towbars require the presence of reinforcement plates in the kit, which must be installed in places where there is a bolted connection.
- We carry out the installation “operation” from the bottom of the car. The help of a partner will not be superfluous here.
- We insert bolts together with bushings into the side member holes.
- We put the coupling device bracket on them from the outside of the body and fix it with nuts. Do not tighten them to full torque yet.
- Having installed and centered the towbar, we make sure that there is no interference with the bumper and exhaust system.
- Only now do we begin to fully tighten the entire list of fasteners.
- We return the heat shield to its original place.
So that during subsequent dismantling of the device you do not have to “mess around” with rusted fastening components several seasons later, mercilessly cutting them off with a grinder, we recommend treating all butt joints with mastic for anti-corrosion work.
Installation Regulatory Requirements
The installation of a non-removable tow bar refers to changes in the design of the vehicle and must be recorded in its technical passport. If the coupling mechanism is included in the list of acceptable additional equipment and can be easily dismantled (removable towbar options), then special registration for such a towbar is not required.
Connecting the power supply
Attention! For many owners, this stage can cause the most difficulties. We recommend that you carry out the procedure for switching the socket of the coupling product in the “presence” of the trailer, which is to be used with the car. This is explained by the presence of a non-standard electrical wiring diagram in some trailer modifications.
We fix the socket on the bracket, and put the insulated cables in a metallized sleeve. It is subsequently fixed with ties.
Next, the wiring through the hole made in the body is laid inside the luggage compartment of the LADA Largus. This hole is initially blocked by a plug and is located close to the muffler, between the rear bumper and the wheel arch. Next, the cable outlets are connected to the on-board network.
Now we present the standard pinout of wires for the Largus station wagon.
From the left side:
- the orange wire is responsible for the brake light;
- black cable - ground;
- pink wire – PTF stern;
- green outlet - left turn signal;
- blue - dimensional lighting equipment.
On the right side:
- orange cable – second brake light;
- black wire – ground;
- beige outlet – reverse lamp;
- green cable – right turn signal;
- blue wire – side light.
Having completed the cable network switching, we check the functioning of the entire list of trailer lighting devices.
Adviсe
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General recommendations when operating trailer electrical equipment:
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- avoid overloading the network, especially when using household appliances in passenger trailers, this can cause a fire;
- check the electrical equipment of the trailer before each trip, at least externally;
- before each season, check the quality of electrical connections outside the vehicle and trailer, protect contact areas and connectors with grease and other means;
- do not allow dangling wires, be sure to secure them to the structural elements with plastic clamps,
- If possible, retrofit your trailer with waterproof LED fixtures.
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Video - installation of a tow bar on a LADA Granta and pinout of the socket:
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May be of interest:
From experience I can say that it is still better to install a socket using special electrical terminal blocks, rather than twisting and electrical tape. Firstly, everything looks aesthetically more cultural, and secondly, with prolonged use, the electrical tape begins to unwind over time, and the twisting of the wires weakens. As a result, the twisting area begins to spark, lose contact, and the dimensions with the brakes begin to blink, or even go out completely. And it’s also worth making sure that when traveling without a trailer, the socket is closed with a plug, otherwise dirt, moisture and sand will get clogged there. Especially in the autumn-spring period, otherwise you will have to spend several hours picking it all out with a sharp screwdriver.
Design options
Let's start with choosing a trailer hitch and try to determine which one is better.
There is a wide selection of manufacturers and suppliers on the market. So the list of those in demand includes:
But you shouldn’t rely only on the brand, since a smart choice requires a comprehensive approach to the issue.
The various types of towbars available on the market are confusing to the buyer. Therefore, first of all, let’s understand this.
Based on the mounting method, all trailer hitches can be:
- fixed (Largus are equipped with these from the factory);
- removable (quickly and easily removed using a special mechanism);
- flanged (fastening is carried out by bolted connections on a special platform).
I will say right away that it is better to choose removable ones, since they are much easier to handle, easy to remove when not needed, but just as easy to put back in place if you are going to travel with a trailer.
TSU balls
There are also different types of balls that are used to attach a trailer hitch.
- Ball A. The load on it is up to 1500 kg;
- Ball N. The load is similar, but the price is lower compared to the previous option;
- Ball F and G. Load up to 3500 kg with the function of changing the fixation height;
- Ball V. Has a load capacity of up to 2500 kg, but is not adjustable;
- B.M.A. It has a vertical mount that is easy and quick to remove;
- Square mount.
The type A ball has recently become popular among Largus owners due to its practicality and ease of use.
I would call the main criteria horizontal and vertical maximum load. To calculate it, you need to understand what kind of cargo you are going to deal with and what trailers to carry with you.
It’s one thing when the tow bar has to support a Bee, and quite another thing if it’s a whole trailer, a motor home.
Finally, we remind you
Using a car with faulty lighting means bringing the owner to administrative liability. But in general, many car owners can install a towbar even with their own hands.
Sources
- https://ShinyNado.ru/raznoe/kak-ustanovit-farkop-na-largus-svoimi-rukami.html
- https://AutoPolar.ru/remont-i-tyuning/ustanovka-farkopa-na-largus.html
- https://car-engine.ru/2021/09/01/%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA-%D1%83%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%BD% D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C-%D1%84%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%BF-%D0%BD% D0%B0-%D0%BB%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B3%D1%83%D1%81-%D1%81%D0%B2%D0%BE%D0%B8%D0%BC/
- https://kalina-2.ru/remont-vaz/podkljuchenie-rozetki-farkopa-lada-largus
- https://alarm-bike.ru/lada/ustanovka-farkopa-na-lada-largus.html
- https://alexey-demidov.ru/specifika/kak-postavit-farkop-na-largus.html
- https://pricep-vlg.ru/farcop/farkop-lada-largus/
- https://gil-service.ru/dvigatel/ustanovka-farkopa-na-largus.html
- https://new-lada.ru/lada-largus-ustanovka-farkopa/
- https://ZamenaRenault.ru/largus/obshhee-temi/ustanovit-farkop-na-ladu.html
Conclusion
As practice shows, many consider a towbar to be a useful element for coupling a car with a trailer, but today it is not an absolute necessity. Whether to install it or not is the choice of every car owner.
Any experienced motorist can confirm the following thesis: “Even a passenger car needs a tow bar.” Very few private vehicles are equipped with a tow bar from the factory.
You can purchase a Lada Largus car (any configuration) here - https://saloncentr.ru/catalog/vaz/lada-largus-u5. The domestic crossover is not equipped with a tow bar in production. But it can be purchased separately.
Original trailer hitch
- 99999901007216 — Towing hook (without wiring). Price about 6500 rub.
- 99999000017182 — Wiring kits are required to connect the towbar socket. The price is about 750 rubles.
In Fig. Figure 2-15 shows the basic version of the towing hook installed on the LADA LARGUS vehicle.
Figure 2-15 — Design of the LADA LARGUS tow hook and delivery set: 1 — left tow hook; 2 — rod; 3 — right mounting bracket; 4 - socket; 5 - hook
Disconnect the rear cushion 3, Figure 2-16, muffler hanger 1 from the body or muffler (using a flathead screwdriver).
Figure 2-16 — Preparation for installation of towing hook brackets: 1 — muffler; 2 — left rear spar; 3 — muffler rear suspension cushion; 4 — right rear spar; 5 - spar hole plug
Unscrew the rear muffler protective shield and remove the shield.
Remove caps 5 (using a flat-head screwdriver) from the holes inside the rear left 2 and right 4 side members).
On the outer side of the side members, clean similar holes from the PShM layer (using a flat screwdriver).
From the inside of the spar 2, Figure 2-17, insert a bolt 1 with a washer from the delivery set into each of the holes, from the outside of the spar, put the bracket 3 on the bolts and secure with nuts without tightening.
In the same way, install the second bracket on the other side member of the body.
Figure 2-17 — Installing the towing hook bracket: 1 — bracket fastening bolt; 2 — rear side member of the body; 3 - parentheses
Install the rod on the brackets and secure with the bolts supplied (19 replaceable head, handle).
Tighten the bolts securing the brackets to the body side members (key 17, spare head 17, handle).
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But with electrics it will be a little more difficult if you have not had similar experience before.
Electrics
First remove both tail lights. Your trailer hitch wiring is routed through the factory holes. Also drill the plug and insert the wiring into it. We will secure it to the towbar beam using the clamps that come with the kit.
The main thing here is to stick to the scheme. That is, connect the car’s wires with the wiring of your trailer hitch in the correct accordance.
Let's take the left connector. Here are the wires:
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But with electrics it will be a little more difficult if you have not had similar experience before.
Electrics
First remove both tail lights. Your trailer hitch wiring is routed through the factory holes. Also drill the plug and insert the wiring into it. We will secure it to the towbar beam using the clamps that come with the kit.
The main thing here is to stick to the scheme. That is, connect the car’s wires with the wiring of your trailer hitch in the correct accordance.
Let's take the left connector. Here are the wires:
Installation
- Remove the spare wheel.
- Remove the protective screen above the muffler (3 nuts).
- Remove the plastic plugs from the side members (indicated by arrows in the photo).
- Enlarge the hole for the fasteners, removing the protective tape and mastic.
- First insert the front bolt and bushing, hang the bracket from the outside and attach it.
- Insert the rear bolt and push it from the outside into the side member. Insert the bushing, washer, and tighten the nut.
- Do the same on the right side.
Check that the towbar is pressed against the bumper, but does not touch the muffler. Tighten all fastening bolts and install the protective screen.
What are the features when choosing a tow hitch on a Lada Largus?
For cars of this model, class “A” towballs are used. The total load on such balls ranges from 1,000 to 1,500 kg horizontally and from 75 to 100 kg vertically, depending on the dimensions of both the car and the trailer, and the towball itself.
We recommend towbars from Galia, which stand out among other models due to their good balance between reasonable price and high quality. We also ask you to pay attention to the fact that you should not install used towbars, since it is impossible to accurately determine what loads the structure was subjected to and whether they exceeded the norm.
Recommendations for selection
When selecting a trailer hitch for your Lada Largus, rely on several criteria. They will help you make the right choice and operate the towbar itself and the trailer for it without unnecessary problems.
The main nuances of choice are:
- Load. Approximately estimate what kind of cargo you are going to transport so that the trailer hitch can withstand the corresponding loads;
- Design. Between fixed and removable, the choice is clearly in favor of the latter. This is not even discussed. Yes, they are more expensive, but the price is worth it;
- Manufacturer. Choose only well-established companies. Cheap Chinese or any other trailer hitches will only create unnecessary problems;
- Price. Depends on all the characteristics listed above. Sometimes it varies depending on whether you buy a trailer hitch in Moscow, St. Petersburg, the city of Krasnodar, or somewhere in the province. Each store makes its own markups on the factory price. Therefore, it is better to buy from official dealers;
- Compatibility with trailer. If there is already a trailer, then the trailer hitch is selected for it. Or vice versa. Even if the towbar socket and trailer plug do not match, an adapter is always available. Do not forget that on Largus with an on-board computer you will also definitely need a coordination unit.
Almost always somewhere you can buy a product at a discount, choose a suitable discount. Use part number or specific model to search.
I think that's enough. If you think there are a couple more wise tips, be sure to write in the comments and share your observations with our readers.
