Message Forums

This question may seem a bit elementary, but please bear with me.

In all my caravanning yrears, I have now for the first time had a 13-pin system fitted to my car.  I used to clean the 12N/12S contacts with WD40, and periodically apply petroleum jelly.  The 13-pin fittings are more compact and obviously more difficult to clean.  Does anyone just rely on an occasional spray with WD40?

For the first time, my towcar has been fitted with a Westfalia towbar and electrics.  The towball is detachable, and the 13-pin socket pivots down when required for use. The pivot pin is riveted in place, and removal for service/replacement would involve dismantling the rear bumper and towbar assembly.  So good maintenance of the 13-pin socket in particular is a top priority.

Comments from caravanners with experience of the 13-pin system would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,  Bertie.

Quote: Originally posted by jennifernn on 16/3/2009

---

just asked OH, we have had ours for 2 years now, he says he leaves the one on the car alone! but ours is not pivoting.

the one on the van has a twist on cover cap, keep that secure. and check the cable entry is watertight.

---

Hi, Jennifer. Sorry, but I don't quite understand what you mean.  He doesn't leave any leads permanently attched to the car, does he?  I ask, because I did think that there is a possibility that the two short conversion leads could be slipped into the bumper aperture and sacured when not towing.

For protecting the contact pins, I believe either silicone or WD40 spray is recommended, although I don't know which would be best of the two.

Regards,  Bertie.