Tow Bar Fitting – What is it for and why is it needed in a car and how much does it cost to fit it in Ireland? – Towing is a popular way of transporting goods or vehicles from one place to another. While towing can be done in many ways, one of the easiest and safest methods is using a tow bar.
A tow bar is a device that connects a car to a trailer, caravan or any other towed vehicle. It provides a sturdy connection that ensures the safe and secure tow of a vehicle.
If you’re in Ireland and you need to fit a tow bar, this post will take you through what tow bar fitting is for, why you need it, and how much it costs.
What Is Tow Bar Fitting?
Tow bar fitting is the process of adding a tow bar to a vehicle. A tow bar consists of a ball and socket joint that attaches to the underside of your car and allows you to connect a trailer or caravan.
It also has electrical connections that allow you to control the indicators, brake lights and other electrics on the trailer with your car’s controls.
Why Do You Need Tow Bar Fitting?
Tow bar fitting is essential for anyone who needs to transport goods or vehicles from one place to another.
A tow bar provides a safe and secure way of towing that reduces the risk of accidents and ensures your car and the trailer are protected against damage during transportation.
With a tow bar, you can tow your caravan, trailer or any other vehicle as long as it meets the legal requirements like weight and size limits.
How Much Does Tow Bar Fitting Cost In Ireland?
The cost of tow bar fitting in Ireland depends on several factors such as the type of tow bar, the make and model of your vehicle, and the level of electrics you require.
Generally, the cost of a basic tow bar fitting ranges from €450 to €800, while a more sophisticated tow bar with advanced electronics could cost up to €1500.
However, other factors like location can affect the cost of fitting, so you should consider getting a free quote from us:
Who Can Fit A Tow Bar For You?
When it comes to tow bar fitting in Ireland, you have a range of options to choose from. You could opt for a specialist tow bar fitter who has expertise in fitting tow bars for all types of vehicles.
Alternatively, you could go to a garage or mechanic who has a good reputation for towing fittings.
It’s also important to check that they are registered with the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) and have insurance to carry out the work.
How to Fit a Tow Bar
If you’re looking to install a tow bar on your car but don’t know where to start – don’t worry! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with the process.
Whether you’re looking to tow a trailer, a boat, or just want to make your car more versatile, installing a tow bar is a simple process that can be easily accomplished by anyone, as long as you have the right tools and guidance.
1. Choose the Right Tow Bar
The first step to installing a tow bar on your car is choosing the right one for your needs. The type of tow bar you need will depend on the specific make and model of your vehicle and the weight of the load you’ll be towing.
There are three types of tow bars: fixed, detachable, and swan neck.
Each of these types has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to choose the one that is best suited to your needs.
2. Prepare Your Tools
Before you can begin installing your tow bar, you need to have the right tools available.
You will need a socket set, a torque wrench, a spirit level, scissors, a drill, a hole saw, and a tap wrench. You may also need a centre punch and a hammer, depending on the type of tow bar you’ve chosen.
3. Install the Tow Bar
Now that you’ve chosen the right tow bar and prepared your tools, it’s time to start installing your tow bar.
Firstly, start by positioning the baseplate onto the car’s bumper and drilling the holes where your tow bar will be attached.
Then, attach the main hitch to the baseplate and torque it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Lastly, fix the removable tow ball onto the main hitch and ensure that it’s level using a spirit level.
4. Wiring Installation
One of the most critical parts when installing a tow bar is wiring. You need to ensure that your wiring meets legal requirements and regulations.
Depending on your car’s make and model, you may need an electrical kit to adapt your car’s systems to suit the trailer or boat you’re towing.
Some tow bars come with their own electrical kits so that you won’t need to purchase it separately. Ensure you follow the wiring instructions provided by the tow bar manufacturer.
5. Test Your Tow Bar
Once you’ve finished installing your tow bar, it’s time to test it. Before you use your new tow bar, ensure that you do a test run.
You should check the vehicle and trailer’s lights and ensure that they’re all working correctly before setting off on a journey.
Your tow bar’s installation will vary depending on the make and model of your car, so be sure to familiarise yourself with the installation instructions before beginning any work.
Conclusion
Tow bar fitting is an essential process if you need to tow a vehicle or caravan. It provides a secure way of transporting vehicles and goods and reduces the chances of accidents and damage.
In Ireland, the cost of tow bar fitting varies depending on several factors, and it’s always best to get quotes from different professionals to compare prices.
Additionally, you should choose a tow bar fitter that has a good reputation and registered with NCTS to ensure quality service.
Tow bar fitting is affordable and an excellent investment for anyone who wants to move goods or vehicles safely.