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Subject Topic: Ford Kuga MK2 towbar Post Reply Post New Topic
PersonEurorich
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Hi all does anybody tow with a Ford kuga mk2 with a Ford fitted towbar?

I have had a fixed towbar fitted and ford cannot confirm if it’s compatible with an alko stabiliser hitch.

It looks like a swan neck but the stalk looks pretty small, how can I get this confirmed

Many Thanks


Persontango55
18/1/2021 at 11:02pm
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If it's a fixed swan neck towball it will be compatible with a stabiliser hitch. The two main features of the towball are the distance between the towball and the rear bumper (no issues with a swan neck) and that there is an undercut directly under the ball to allow the stabiliser hitch to swivel. However, Ford don't make towbars they make vehicles so any towbar fitted by Ford or any other dealer for that matter will be a independent towbar manufacturer with a Ford badge stuck on which they charge about another 20% of the cost for that privelige.


PersonEurorich
via mobile 18/1/2021 at 11:08pm
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Quote: Originally posted by tango55 on 18/1/2021
If it's a fixed swan neck towball it will be compatible with a stabiliser hitch. The two main features of the towball are the distance between the towball and the rear bumper (no issues with a swan neck) and that there is an undercut directly under the ball to allow the stabiliser hitch to swivel. However, Ford don't make towbars they make vehicles so any towbar fitted by Ford or any other dealer for that matter will be a independent towbar manufacturer with a Ford badge stuck on which they charge about another 20% of the cost for that privelige.


Thank you I have been getting a little paranoid! I read on the alko website about a 60mm depth on the stalk and have got very confused!

If it’s a swan neck which I think it is I assume the undercut isn’t an issue?

Is there any way I can find out the original manufacturer?

The part I have had fitted is this one https://shop.ford.co.uk/products/fixed-tow-bar-6


Persontango55
19/1/2021 at 12:01am
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The 60 mm. depth on the stalk I would consider only relates to a fixed towball not a swan neck being fixed or detachable. When a fixed towball is used (via 2 x 16mm. mounting bolts) there has to be a minimum distance from the rear of the car bumper to the towball to allow free movement of the AL-KO hitch so that it doesn't make contact with the rear of the vehicle when hitched up. That's probably the 60mm. distance that AL-KO is referring to. Both fixed swan neck and detachable towballs are identical which rest assured that no problems will be encountered whatsoever. You just have to be careful when reversing to hitch up as that's when a motor mover has it's merits without any explanation.
Regarding the brand of the towbar, there maybe a badge or sticker underneath but rest assured that dealers only use top quality manufacturers such as Brink or Witter.






Post last edited on 19/01/2021 00:07:54


Personblueexpo97
19/1/2021 at 6:16am
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It might seem obvious, but do you have a professional towbar fitter near you if you do, for peace of mind just pay him a visit.

-------------
XVI yes?

As well is two words!
How does a sage know everything about everything? or does he? or does he just think he does?
Remember, if you buy something you bought it, not brought it.


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Persontezmil1
19/1/2021 at 7:45pm
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Hi, I have a mark 2 kuga with a swan neck detachable towbar, never had a problem, Terry.

-------------
Terry


PersonEurorich
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Quote: Originally posted by blueexpo97 on 19/1/2021
It might seem obvious, but do you have a professional towbar fitter near you if you do, for peace of mind just pay him a visit.

That’s a great idea!


PersonEurorich
via mobile 19/1/2021 at 10:14pm
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Quote: Originally posted by tezmil1 on 19/1/2021
Hi, I have a mark 2 kuga with a swan neck detachable towbar, never had a problem, Terry.


Thanks Terry I have the fixed supplied and fitted by Ford


PersonMonty15
20/1/2021 at 12:21pm
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Simple answer to question, refer to the Alko coupling user manual!

Assuming you have a AKS3004 coupling on van, otherwise you need to find manual for your particular coupling.

https://www.usermanuals.tech/d/al-ko-aks-3004-stabiliser-handbook-user-manual/part1#4

Pages 4 and 5 give all the info you need, and explain why the particular dimensions are stipulated.

A swan neck tow ball should be fine with only concern being clearance between bumper and ball.

Don't forget to clean off ALL paint from tow ball and DO NOT lubricate if mating with AKS3004 damped coupling!


PersonMike3003
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I had a Mk2 Kuga, a great towcar, better the my currant VW Tiguan IMO. I towed thousands of miles with a swan neck, mainly France, with no issue whatsoever.

-------------
Not ALL Newts get p**sed.

“Semper Fidelis”


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Personblueexpo97
28/1/2021 at 2:24pm
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-------------
XVI yes?

As well is two words!
How does a sage know everything about everything? or does he? or does he just think he does?
Remember, if you buy something you bought it, not brought it.



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