Product details
Maypole mp5003b heavy-duty 50mm towball – e approved
Think of the Maypole MP5003B as the proper, no-nonsense towball for when you’re hauling the heavy stuff — not the dainty jobs you do once in a blue moon. It carries E approval to UN/ECE Regulation 55, so it’s been tested and certified to the latest standards (the successor to EC94/20). That certification matters if you tow regularly or carry heavier loads; it’s the sort of reassurance you want when you’re relying on the kit day in, day out.
Built for strength
With a D-value of 17.2 kN and an S-value (static vertical load) of 350 kg, this towball is up to the tougher jobs — boats, horseboxes, or heavily loaded trailers. The 50 mm ball is a common, robust size used across caravans and trailers, and this one sits toward the higher end of the 50 mm ratings, so it’s a safe bet when durability and peace of mind are top priorities.
Practical fitting details
It’s made to fit standard 90 mm fixing centres and uses 2 x M16 mounting holes. For a secure fit, use BS3692 grade 8.8 high-tensile bolts with lock washers and torque them to 240 Nm. Give the bolts a check after the first run and then every so often — a quick once-over stops things from working loose. If you’re not completely confident fitting it yourself, get a professional to do the install; for anyone comfortable with basic tools it’s straightforward.
Where this makes a difference
Whether you’re shifting a boat, a horsebox, a trailer full of kit for work, or anything hefty, this towball removes the worry of under-rated gear. No more faffing about with flimsy fittings on long trips. The black finish keeps it looking tidy and helps resist corrosion — very handy over winter when roads get wet and salty.
Key specs and practical info
- Model: MP5003B
- Ball size: 50 mm
- D-value: 17.2 kN
- S-value (static vertical load): 350 kg
- Fixing centres: standard 90 mm
- Mounting holes: 2 x M16
- Torque: 240 Nm (use BS3692 grade 8.8 bolts)
- Approval number: E11 55R-0110512 (Regulation 55)
- Manufacturer part number: 55A32390
- Item weight: approx 1.76 kg
Some buyers ask if this towball will suit older towbars or non-standard fittings. The main things to check are the 90 mm fixing centres and the M16 bolt size — if those match, you’re good to go; if not, you might need a different flange or an adapter. And remember: always check the towing limits of both the vehicle and the trailer — the towball’s ratings are only one piece of the puzzle.
All in all, the Maypole MP5003B 50 mm heavy-duty towball is a tidy, dependable choice when strength, compliance and easy fitting matter. It’s a sensible upgrade for anyone who tows often or wants the confidence that their towball will cope with tougher jobs.

