Wiring For Tow Bar

[john171]

Hi all, I am new to this forum, I am waiting for delivery of a new galaxcy 1.9 tdi (140) zetec auto. I want a tow bar fitted to pull my caravan with a 13 pin plug, does the car need a special wiring loom because of revesing sensors, and braking safty features ect.ford want

[RADIOTWO]

Hi all, I am new to this forum, I am waiting for delivery of a new galaxcy 1.9 tdi (140) zetec auto. I want a tow bar fitted to pull my caravan with a 13 pin plug, does the car need a special wiring loom because of revesing sensors, and braking safty features ect.ford want

[niallsan]

I don't believe you need any special wiring for the caravan lights.

I did make up a box of relays for my caravan lights though, just to take the load from the cars system. The Galaxy has a Canbus system and if you splice into the car lights directly I think this will throw up faults. I didn't risk it so I could be wrong on that one! It may be worth the €50 for piece of mind.

I took the caravan lights power from the 12v rear cigarette lighter socket. I think you can purchase these relay boxes from Towequipe. I got a detachable Bosal Towbar for my 05 Auto, just in case the towbar was getting picked up by the reverse sensors.

Remove the bumper, remove the bumper bar thingy at the back, remove spare wheel, slide in towbar into the chassis, fit supplied bolts and torque as recommended. Give it a go- its dead easy- save yourself €€€€. When the swan neck is fitted sometimes the sensors detect it but only if the hitch cover is crooked! Obviously, when the neck is off ,it's ok:rolleyes:.

I got the towbar from the UK for about €250 cheaper than I could buy it in Ireland?!?!?!?!?

 

That was just for the Caravan lights- I didn't wire it for fridges etc.

Edited March 10, 2011 by niallsan

[RADIOTWO]

I don't believe you need any special wiring for the caravan lights.

I did make up a box of relays for my caravan lights though, just to take the load from the cars system. The Galaxy has a Canbus system and if you splice into the car lights directly I think this will throw up faults. I didn't risk it so I could be wrong on that one! It may be worth the

[niallsan]

I knew I shouldn't have bothered contributing. Too many pedantic people around.

But I suppose your right, I am contradicting myself. Well done!

[Sher]

I would use one of these:-

 

http://www.towsure.com/product/Smart_7_Way_CanBus_Relay

 

As for the 13 pin connectors they are not as secure as the older systems in use.