wirral tourer

You could say the same about cigar sockets. Modern wiring (2.5mm recommended for this pin) and new 13 pin sockets are rated up to 25Amps, so a 25 AMP fuse would protect the circuit. Current draw off doesn't reach anywhere near that. The fridge runs off a separate pin anyway.

Most people would have the common sense to fit a fuse. Ford however appear devoid of common sense as it has not occured to them that a fuse would remove any risk and the fact that for the last 20 or so years caravan electrical sockets have featured constant live pins also seems to have escaped them. To be honest, I think it is another example of a pathetic cost cutting exercise. They probably had a meeting where the agenda was - what can we remove to save money ?: Spare tyre Jack Brace Proper wiring for electrical socket Tonneau cover

After much digging and wondering why pin 9 wasn't working on the 13 pin socket of the factory fitted towbar socket I was forwarded the schematic from Ford showing that Pin 9 is not connected up (although Pin 13 is - this is the return) Ford confirm that they have taken a decision not to do this as they cannot control which appliances will be connected and they may ultimately draw too much power and this may represent a fire risk. This is total rubbish in my opinion (For those who don't know, Pin 9 provides power for caravan interior lighting, charging the caravan battery and powering the Al-Ko ATC Traction/Stability Safety devices which are now fitted on many modern caravans.) This is not mentioned in any brochure or price list and surprises me for two reasons: 1. The cigar lighter socket represents a similar risk but they haven't stopped fitting these. 2. Are Ford aware that ATC units, which are now commonly fitted to new caravans, will not work. 3. An invention known as a Fuse would remove the risk 4. Their towbar wiring does not now conform to a caravanners expectations and do not fully adhere to ISO11446 If I'd known this I would not have specified a ford towbar, but had one fitted independently. I will be writing to Ford. I have recommended to the Caravan Club that they exclude Ford from their Towing Car Awards as they do not now meet the requirements of Caravanners.

Anyone got any suggestions ? The car was delivered on Friday with factory fitted towbar and electrics. All the road lights work just fine, however the permanent supply for the fridge, battery charging and internal lights don't work. I've had a look at the plug socket and it appears to be fully wired. The road lights work as they should when plugged in and the reversing sensors de-activate, as does the rear fog light.

I've heard that the 13 pin plug may not come energised for caravans, i.e. it will only as a standard run the lights, not the fridge or battery - not all the pins are wired up. Does anyone have experience of ordering the factory fit plug and can they confirm whether the plug was energised for caravans? Also, if anyone has the fixed towbar, can they confirm if the space between the centre of the towbar and the bumper is greater than 68mm. This is the requirement of an Al-ko AKS 3004 stabiliser. I cannot get an answer from Ford. Cheers

I'm wanting to know whether I really need to fork out

Hi there. I'm currently in the process of changing to a Galaxy. Question - does anyone tow with a Galaxy which doesn't have self levelling suspension. If so, does it drop a lot, or is it okay. Also - does the detachable towball supplied by Ford fit the Al-ko hitches ? Cheers

We're going the other way! Changing from a 55plate Mondeo TDCi estate to a Galaxy, cos now got 3 kids and a caravan. The Mondeo is an excellent car and I'd have another one if they cam with 7 seats.

It took us a few times to get into it but we really enjoy it now. Pitching up is defintely the most stressful time - getting the right pitch, reversing into the spot properly whilst people watch, getting level, putting the awning up. But now its a doddle. Be patient and enjoy! (a couple of glasses of wine help to wind down)

When the hitch drops onto the towball and the handle clicks, wind the jockey wheel down (to raise the van up) to ensure it has locked propely. This ensures a proper connection between van and car has been achieved.

Chester Tow Bar and Trailer Centre nr the Greyhound estate are v.good and reasonable price too. I think they fit Witter. Unfortunately, most require cutting the bumper but this is underneath the vehicle so not visible unless you get under the car.

The most common cause of snaking is a badly loaded caravan and too light on the hitch. Try and keep heavy items in the car or if in the caravan - on the floor over the axle. Check the caravan handbook for the noseweight, but ensure you don't exceed the car's limit (which I think is 75kg.) If you're too light then you'll almost certainly snake.