Help required identifying towbar

ob1
ob1 Forum Participant Posts: 50
edited September 2016 in Towcars & Towing #1

I have just purchased a 2013 VW Tiguan it already had a fixed flange tow bar fitted, I would like to change the fixed flange for a removeable one if it is possable but am having trouble trying to idenfify the make of the towbar. The bar is a fixed flange
towbar but comes up from under the bumper like a swan neck but then there is a flange welded on that towball bolts too. This swan neck looking section is made of square box section which seems unsual as all the others I have looked at are made from round bar
this is then fastened to the to the main barinside the bumper with two bolts. The car was first registed in the Doncaster area so I  guess this was where the bar was fitted  mybe somebody from that area might be able to help. 

 

Comments

  • Metheven
    Metheven Club Member Posts: 3,987 ✭✭✭
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    edited September 2016 #2

    Why do you need to identify it, surely to go to a removable from a fixed flange will require a complete towbar change, so you are free to choose your manufacturer.

  • Tirril
    Tirril Forum Participant Posts: 439
    100 Comments
    edited September 2016 #3

    Up until my current Discovery I have always had fixed towbars with the ball bolted on. I was less than impressed with the detachable fitted to this car which made a clunking sound and also prevented fitting a 'bolt between' cycle carrier. Fortunately Landrover replaced free those detachables showing signs of wear and I am now back on a fixed bar. Is it really worth the cost to replace yours? I don't mind the appearance of a permanent fitting especially on 4x4s and they do give some protection in car parks etc.

  • Wildwood
    Wildwood Club Member Posts: 3,581 ✭✭✭✭
    1000 Comments Photogenic
    edited September 2016 #4

    As Dave says to move to a removable tow bar will require a complete change. The tow bar fitted should be an approved one and thereshould be a number on it to confirm this. Mine is on the underside. If you cannot find this then it may not be an approved design
    and therefore illegal, if you can find it the approval number should be traceable.

  • ob1
    ob1 Forum Participant Posts: 50
    edited September 2016 #5

    Most of the bar is concealed behind the bumper  I have looked with a torch and mirror but can't find any name or number think I would have to remove the bumper to find it. Some Towbars are upgradeable to a removable flange that is why I was trying to find
    the make don't want to change the full bar I have checked a lot of bars out and am being to think it might be a Pct Towbar.

  • Nuggy
    Nuggy Forum Participant Posts: 512
    edited September 2016 #6

    Call in at a towbar fitter and ask them for their opinions on feasibility and costs, Stockport has a good towbar centre on Chestergate, if you are at that end of the county.