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Subject Topic: towbar electrics Post Reply Post New Topic
05/3/2014 at 7:26pm
 Location: Lancaster
 Outfit: Abbey Vogue GTS 417
View russandjax's Profile View Profile   Reply to russandjax Reply   Quote russandjax Quote  
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I am buying a towbar for my vw touran as i intend to purchase a caravan very soon . Which do i reqire , 7pin or 13 pin ??? also does buying a caravan with alko stabalizers or any other hook up system require different towbars , any help would be appreciated


05/3/2014 at 7:32pm
 Location: Aberdeen
 Outfit: Coachman Pastiche 460 VW Tiguan Moti
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If you go to search and type in the word 'towbars' I think you will get more than enough information.

7 pin or 13 pin depends on age of caravan you are buying.


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Robert (BoB)


05/3/2014 at 7:39pm
 Location: Derbyshire
 Outfit: Swift Compact C205
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I would personally opt for the 13 pin. If you buy a caravan with 7 pin plugs (12N & 12S)you can get them changed to a combined 13 pin plug or if you just want road lights, that is you are not bothered about running fridge or charging battery whilst on the move then a neat little plug in adapter is available to go from 13 pin on car to 7 pin on caravan. This will not operate caravan reverse lights if fitted.Older caravans have 7 pin plugs a new (or newish) caravan will have a 13 pin plug.

If you use an alko hitch you must use the extended ball intended for an alko hitch or alternatively i believe swan neck towbars are suitable for Alko hitch.

I am sure others will also give you their advice and help.



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The Folding Man


05/3/2014 at 7:44pm
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If your caravan is around 2009 or newer it will have a 13pin plug older & it will have 2 7pin plugs, 12n for roadlights & 12s for caravan fridge & battery, so you would need 12n & 12s sockets on your car. 13pin is a better system & modern cars often have dealer fit towbars with 13pin as standard. It is easy to convert an older caravan to 13pin if required.

An Alko stabiliser requires a longer deeper flange ball. If your towbar is flange type then ensure fitter uses Alko type towball, this is ok for standard caravan hitch as well. A swan neck towbar looks neater & will be ok for stabiliser hitch, as will detachable swan neck.


09/3/2014 at 7:21am
 Location: Lancaster
 Outfit: Abbey Vogue GTS 417
View russandjax's Profile View Profile   Reply to russandjax Reply   Quote russandjax Quote  
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Thank you for the replies. Really appreciate it



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