SWB Suzuki Vitara 1.6

[PaulHull]

Just bought the missus a Vitara 1.6 (79bhp). I currently tow my Swift Rapide (weighs 825kg) using a 115bhp Zafira (Max braked tow weight 1300kgs) but the Vitara can pull a little more (about 1400kgs).

I'm thinking of having a towbar fitted to the Vitara as the four wheel drive would be very helpful (got quite badly stuck earlier this year in the Zaf when trying to get the van set up) but its engine is pretty weedy.

Has anyone pulled with one of these or have any comments or suggestions?

Thanks in advance!

 

[EmmanuelMuldoon]

I have towed a lighter van with my LWB Vitara 2.0TD and found it fine, but not fast! The engine is only 71BHP, but of course the extra torque of the diesel helps. Had to replace the clutch at 70k miles, so you might have to budget for this, but it's an easy job & the clutch assembly was not expensive IMO.

However, the hitch on my Witter towbar partially obscures the number plate, unless a drop plate is fitted;(fitted it myself, BTW, easy).

I have always wondered how Witter got CE approval for the bar considering this???? anyone like to comment?

 

[Lutz]

The type approval that Witter got applies only to the towbar itself, not its installation in the vehicle. However, it would have been appropriate if they pointed out that a fixed towbar would require the number plate to be relocated, although that is none of their responsibility. Other towbar manfucturers only offer detachable towballs in such cases and that, to my mind, is a better solution.

 

[EmmanuelMuldoon]

Yes Lutz, that was my guess of the situation. It does, however, seem a bit perverse that a manufacturer can get a product type approved to fulfill an EU Law, but by fitting it the owner breaks another! Sometimes the Law is an Ass.