How much should I be looking to pay to have one fitted? I'd want one wired up so I can put a proper trailer with lights on. I've heard of Witter and there seem to be mobile guys to come and fit that type are they OK or can you only get the big brands fitted at their place?
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Witter, Bosal, Brink, Westfalia are names that come to mind. Also consider whether you go for a standard ball, swan neck, or detachable/folding.
Edworthys (I think) of Aylesbury list hundreds, of various makes. Some of the manufacturer sites are helpful.
I paid £240 fitted for a Witter + twin electrics with a standard ball last time. Next one will be detachable which tend to be more expensive.
Some advocate soldering the wiring. Scotchloks have a reputation for unreliability but I suspect that is down to using the wrong size for the cable. I would just go with a reputable (or long established) fitter and let them do it their way. FWIW the last one was soldered and gave no trouble.
Be aware there is likely to be some drilling so you might wnat to think about rustproofing.
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If you plan to tow anything substantial, then you should consider an anti-snake device.
Those just don't work with a swan-neck hitch - the device needs a strong anchor on the car via the towbar. A swanneck goes so far under the car that there is nothing to mount the antisnake onto. The manufacturers offer a clamp that fixes to the 'neck, but they are useless and soon slip.
If you haven't experienced snaking, see last weeks caravan holiday on Top Gear. It's far more frightening than any skid!
John
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I can say without absolute certainty that I will never tow a caravan.
Thanks for advice thus far
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Try Towsure or Discount Towing for tow-bars-good quality and competitive on price.
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Put the make of your vehicle into ebay under 'car parts and vehicles'. Whole range of towbar sellers on there with links into their shops and prices.
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Fullchat
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Nige
There is a very good company just in Bury (on the Rochdale side) called Peter Bowman, near to the Skoda dealer, so convenient for you.
They are experts in tow bars, trailers, bike-racks, even (god forbid ......) caravans !
I've used them loads of times and they are very professional. They fitted a cracking towbar (witter, I think) to my Outback and I bought a fantastic bike rack from them that fits on to the towbar
Give 'em a try
jdc
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Brilliant, thanks very much.
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Many towbar electrics are connected using scotchlocks these days. They're quick and cheap and usually reliable because they're fitted in a dry area.
Soldered connections are much better, but more suited to long term industrial use. .
Problems arise with soldered connections if ever you decide to remove the towbar and wiring. Wires will have been cut, shortened, and soldered. Removal and restoration might well take as long as the installation. Scotchlocked connections can just be unclipped.
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