tow bar fitting question/recommendations (1 Viewer)

errpaul

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We want to fit a tow bar to our laika and I've had a little look around, but they seem very expensive compared to a tow bar for a van.

we have chassis extensions which have two holes either side (for bolts) and the electric connection that you would usually findnext to the tow ball (for lights etc on trailer).

Do i still need to spend hundreds and hundreds or is there a better way?
 
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errpaul

errpaul

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Thought a couple of pics might help show what I'm trying to describe ☺
 

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errpaul

errpaul

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I've marked the bits on the pictures that looks like a tow bar has been fitted in the past.

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Derbyshire wanderer

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If it is 3500kg max you will need a type approved bar as it is newer than 1998. If it is over 3500kg, type approval is not required by law but your insurance company may insist on it anyway.
It would be worthwhile asking a couple of towbar specialists what they suggest you need as a guide to whether you may find a second hand one that's suitable.
 
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errpaul

errpaul

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It is 3850kg.
I was hoping maybe a second hand one. I may be wrong but seems like electric are already in place so maybe just extend for the socket to be more accessible, and bolt on a bar.
 
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If it's on an ALKO chassis then they can be expensive as they need to be beefed up quite a bit, also check your train weight as they are sometimes quite low due to the kind of chassis that they are on.

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Derbyshire wanderer

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Maybe it would be worth getting a quote for the bar only and fit the electrics yourself.
You really do need to know what the maximum loading the extension rails can take (and stay within the design weights of the vehicle) as fitting one that does not fit to the correct mounting points will likely cause some expensive damage.
Basically if you are not confident what loading stresses will be placed on the vehicle, you really need some technical help to avoid any damage.
The last thing you want is any uncertainty regarding the integrity of the towbar.
 
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errpaul

errpaul

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Feb 27, 2009
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A Class
Exp
11 yrs
If it's on an ALKO chassis then they can be expensive as they need to be beefed up quite a bit, also check your train weight as they are sometimes quite low due to the kind of chassis that they are on.

Not an alko so thats good news from that point of view.
Train weight has been reduced to 5200kg so still a reasonable amount left.


Maybe it would be worth getting a quote for the bar only and fit the electrics yourself.
You really do need to know what the maximum loading the extension rails can take (and stay within the design weights of the vehicle) as fitting one that does not fit to the correct mounting points will likely cause some expensive damage.
Basically if you are not confident what loading stresses will be placed on the vehicle, you really need some technical help to avoid any damage.
The last thing you want is any uncertainty regarding the integrity of the towbar.

maybe you're right. Dont wanna cause serious danage for the sake of a few hundred.
the places i have called have directed me to watling engineering.

Does anyone know of anywhere in or around wiltshire or somerset?
 

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