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The purpose of this test using a Reflexxion Diamond Standard Brand full assembly stepbumper, was to determine per the V-5 Regulation, each hitch shall be capable of withstanding the forces applied, without causing permanent deformation of the ball platform, such that the final position of the ball axis does not depart more than 5 degrees from it’s original, nominal vertical position.

The bumpers were rigidly mounted to a test fixture using the provided mounting assemblies. The hitch rating for Class 2 is 3,500lbs. GTWR with a tongue rating of 350lbs. All test loads were applied above the minimum test loads for the class rating to the center of the ball at a rate less than 150lbs. per second, and held for a minimum of 5 seconds. The angle of the ball from vertical, relative to its original axis, was measured before and after each of the five load applications and in cumulative total movement.

Test A applies equal load forces vertically and horizontally simultaneously. Tests B and C measure the impact of attempting to pull off the ball with increased horizontal load factors while maintaining downward pressure. Tests D and E simulate and measure a sideways position of the trailer.

The ball axis movement using the Diamond Standard Brand stepbumper showed a net movement of 4 degrees, equal to and somewhat less the VESC V-5 standard of 5 degrees allowable.