Ive just recently returned to caravaning,so need a new tow bar. Can anybody advise me on the advantage to a dechachable to a permanant towbar. I drive a Ford Mondeo.
Witter Tow Bar.
- Thread starter john_374246312
- Start date
John, the main advantages of the detachable type are that it can be removed easily when not required, and therefore you don't keep hitting your shins on it when using the boot. Most people also feel that their cars look better without the tow-ball showing.
They are however, considerably more expensive than the fixed type, which has the advantage of putting other drivers off getting too close when parking in streets etc.
They are however, considerably more expensive than the fixed type, which has the advantage of putting other drivers off getting too close when parking in streets etc.
Another advantage of the detachable type, especially if you have an AlKo or Winterhoff stabiliser, is that you can store the towball in the dry when not in use, so it doesn't get rusty or contaminated with dirt, saving you from having to clean the towball before hitching up.
Having used a detachable bar for the last 6 years I`m getting a standard bar this time around.
Why? Well, I`ll concede a detachable one is less obtrusive, but the 12s & 12n connectors were well tucked away and prone to damage ( I also had to kneel down to securely attach).
The main reason for the change ( other than the `reversing aid`!) is the ability to incorporate some form of bumper protection on a fixed bar. The rear bumper on my current car is vast, and repair or replacement would cost hundreds of pounds, and as I usually hitch up solo there is the potential to incur a lot of expense by reversing 2" too far.
Ain`t done it yet, but.....
Why? Well, I`ll concede a detachable one is less obtrusive, but the 12s & 12n connectors were well tucked away and prone to damage ( I also had to kneel down to securely attach).
The main reason for the change ( other than the `reversing aid`!) is the ability to incorporate some form of bumper protection on a fixed bar. The rear bumper on my current car is vast, and repair or replacement would cost hundreds of pounds, and as I usually hitch up solo there is the potential to incur a lot of expense by reversing 2" too far.
Ain`t done it yet, but.....
I had to get a detachable witter on my car as it had reversing sensors which would be constantly beeping if it was a fixed bar. It cost me nearly
Hi I have Mondeo and have a Witter detachable much neater although I agree 12s and 12n are less easy to get at but no problem,I paid I think last year about
Hello Angus ,I totally agree with all your comments, but the reversing sensors with the normal bracket drives me crazy as they are so loud in our car
Those who think that a fixed towbar gives you more protection against damage to the car, be forewarned!
The relatively rigid towbar will transmit all forces into the vehicle underbody. Without the bumper to cushion the blow, at anything walking pace and above, this can result in distortion of the whole chassis which one wouldn't see except from underneath and such damage is a lot more costly than a new bumper.
The relatively rigid towbar will transmit all forces into the vehicle underbody. Without the bumper to cushion the blow, at anything walking pace and above, this can result in distortion of the whole chassis which one wouldn't see except from underneath and such damage is a lot more costly than a new bumper.
I used to have a XJR (the straight six supercharged version). Fantastic car although I never towed with it. My favorate memory is leaving a Porche 911 behind away from the lights. His face was a picture!!
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