Golf Mk5 Tow Bars - Q&A - All you need to know Guide!! Advice, Tips...

[Ben]

I'd like to try to open up a thread soley dedicated to towbars. I know this is a very lightly touched area with such subjects as wiring, bumper cutting, availability, costs, brands etc, and there have been past posts on here about this subject in all manor of different areas.

Should Tow bar questions be put in one universal area or should there be a post in each model specific catorgory?

Anyway, back to the reason for this post.

I have recently been looking in to getting a tow bar for my mk5 golf, no problem... however I want a removable one and i have a colour coded lower skirt and i don't want a hole cutting in to it ruining the asthetic looks see here
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/26112006034-1.jpg

Whilst in France this week i saw something that just had to be documented and showed. I know its not removable...

A mk5 golf WITH tow bar WITHOUT cutting, see here :bigeyes:

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/24052007146.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/24052007147.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/24052007148.jpg

I know it doesn't look the best, but its proof if your local fitter says otherwise.

I have no info regarding the brand. sorry :sad6:

[guyg]

Looks a bit rude to me, I'm not sure I want to touch it...

Try Ann Summers maybe...

Cheers,

Guy

[RickT]

or ...... its the VW swan neck...

You can get these fix and removable...

how ever you cant remove the electric hook ups tho..

RickT

[Huweth]

The Swan neck is fine for lighter loads, but they are known in towing circles to flex a little meaning they are not so good for heavy loads. Despite that, I wouldn't have thought they'd fit them if they weren't rated to the maximum towing capacity of the car. Maybe after countless hours of heavy use the metal would fatigue and snap, again that seems highly unlikely.

I like having the fixed towbar on the back of my car. I know that I can reverse into walls or people can gently nudge me when parking and the rear end is considerably more protected from damage.

[Eshrules]

LOL @ Huweth, i liek your thinking, my mum has been saved from countless prangs thanks to her towbar(the leaning metal stump at tescos bears testiment to this).

the only thing i can see benig a problem on that golf with the fixed towbar, is look how close to that bumper it is, you're not going to fit a very big trailer on there and thinking practically, it would only take one slip to end up with a 'modified' bumper, complete with embedded trailer.

i'd want some sort of protection there me thinks, not sure the normal 'plate' would do?

[Ben]

Here is another example of a tow bar on a mk5 golf that i saw in penzance.
The cut seems messy.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/05062007161.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/05062007160.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/05062007158.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/05062007157.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/05062007156.jpg

[RickT]

i guess its all about weight...

If your looking at towing a caravan go for a fixed.. if its a little trailler for the tip run or jet ski... get a swan neck..

if i remeber right.. the swan neck well hold upto the max towing weight.. but check that..

it looks like you have done your research... so the choice is yours.....

RickT

[adamss24]

Hi, look for a genuine westfalia tow bar as its not visible at all when removed and there is no cutting whatsoever of any body panel...even the plug flips under the bumper reces...Hope this helps.

[Ben]

I've just sent the following email to Westfalia UK and Brink and towbarsdirect.co.uk. and CDFtowbars.co.uk (diytowbars.co.uk) Lets see what they say.

Good morning

Please could you send me via email to ******* and or ********** or post to ********, any information you have including clear images of tow bars fitted and preferably removable to VW Golf MK5’s as I am researching one for my car and I do not wish to have the bumper cut as it will ruin the aesthetic looks. I do not intend to tow anything larger than a twin axle box trailer.

Please take the time to look at the info I have gathered so far here http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum//showthread.php?t=9482 (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=9482) and rest assured the info you supply may well be added

Regards

[Ben]

John Cooper of info@brinktowbars.co.uk was very quick to reply to my email and i have pleasure in posting the image he has kindly supplied.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/towbarbrinkjohncooper.jpg

Although it is quite dark, you can just make out the bumper cut and blanking plate.

[Ben]

A while ago I also emailed www.watling-towbars.co.uk (http://www.watling-towbars.co.uk) with this question and response...

Question...
My car, VW mk5 gt tdi golf. I am looking in to having a tow bar fitted to my mk5 golf. It must be a removable tow bar and it must be fitted without cutting any part of the rear bumper as it is 100% colour coded and I don't wish to be left with an unsightly hole ruining the aesthetic looks. I am an active member on various forums and I have read many bad reports about bumper cutting, we also share positive information about companies that can do and also those that can not. Please could you tell me if you can supply the necessary tow bar and costs.

Many thanks in advance of your prompt response.

Response...

I cannot find any detachable towbars available from the towbar manufacturers from whom we deal which do not have a bumper cut. Sometimes the cut is called “invisible” as it is at the lower part of the bumper and does not show. The detachable towbars for your vehicle require a “visible” bumper cut. Towbar manufacturers do try to design towbars without requiring bumper cuts, however sometimes this is unavoidable.

Regards

Jackie

[Ben]

www.towbarsdirect.co.uk have replied to my email with the following information, they have also supplied 2 pdf attachments but at 267kb and 420kb they appear too big to become any benefit to you:confused: ...

Good Afternoon

Thank you for your enquiry,

We use over ten different manufactures of towbars and the only make that has designed a towbar that doesn’t cut the bumper is Eurobars/SIARR. They have available both a standard two bolt flange towbar and a swanneck towbar (a picture of the swanneck is on your forum). The only problem with this towbar is availability in the UK. The towbar is made by SIARR of France and distributed in the UK by Eurobars who have problems importing enough of them to meet demand. We ourselves currently have two dozen on back order with Eurobars.

As mentioned earlier, all other towbars we have listed (not all the towbars we list on our master list are shown on www.towbarsdirect.co.uk) involve a bumper cut with all detachable towbars requiring a large cut in the centre of the lower skirt. Some makes such as Westfalia and Bosal recommend buying a pre-cut lower skirt from Volkswagen which comes with a cover plate as well, others such as Witter, GDW and Brink require you to cut the skirt yourself but do include the bumper cover which is black. There is a photo of these provided by John Cooper on your website. Westfalia state that the Westfalia detachable is the original equipment towbar supplied to Volkswagen dealers however I believe it is not the factory fitted towbar.

All the towbars listed are EC type approved up to the maximum towing capacity allowed by Volkswagen with I believe is 1600kg for the 4-Motion model. For details of towing weight see http://www.carpages.co.uk/guide/volkswagen/volkswagen-golf-guide.asp where by clicking on a model all the technical data for come up with the towing weight being about half way down the page.

To clarify some issues that have been discussed in the forum:

· All towbars we list are rated upto the maximum towing capacity allowed by Volkswagen. This includes the swanneck designs which are normally what European car manufacturers' calibrations are based on.
· The Westfalia detachable does cut the bumper unless you buy a new under skirt from VW which of course is pre-cut.

I’m afraid at this moment in time we do not have any photos of the Golf Mark V towbar, however I have listed all towbars we have available below along with links to the fitting instructions where possible.

TOWBARS – EC TYPE APPROVED FOR VOLKSWAGEN GOLF MK5 HATCH

FLANGE

Tow Trust (RRP £156.28) – Our Price £78.00 – see attachment TVW623 for fitting instructions
Eurobars/SIARR (RRP £162.15) – Our Price £109.00
PCT (RRP £162.15) – Our Price £109.00 – click here for fitting instructions (http://www.pct.eu.com/automotive/Fitting%20Instructions/pdf/VW4228A.pdf)
Witter (RRP £162.15) – Our Price £109.00 – click here for fitting instructions (http://www.witter-towbars.co.uk/FittingInstructions/VW49.pdf)
Westfalia (RRP £153.93) – Our Price £107.00 – click here for fitting instructions (http://www.westfalia-automotive.de/pdf/vw-321/a321680691101.pdf)
Bosal (RRP £152.75) – Our Price £99.00 – click here for fitting instructions (http://www.catalogue.bosal.com/pdf/pdf_mi/031712.pdf)
Brink (RRP £157.45) – Our Price £109.00 – click here for fitting instructions (http://www.brinkweb.com/download_manual.php?id=1560)

SWANNECK

Eurobars/SIARR (RRP £151.58) – Our Price £109.00 see attachment Golf Golf+ swan for fitting instructions
Bosal (RRP £164.50) – Our Price £99.00 – click here for fitting instructions (http://www.catalogue.bosal.com/pdf/pdf_mi/031711.pdf)
Brink (RRP £167.44) – Our Price £137.00 – click here for fitting instructions (http://www.brinkweb.com/download_manual.php?id=1113)
Westfalia (RRP £121.03) – Our Price £84.00 – click here for fitting instructions (http://www.brinkweb.com/download_manual.php?id=1113)

DETACHABLE

Westfalia – (RRP £253.80) – Our Price - £149.00 click here for fitting instructions (http://www.westfalia-automotive.de/pdf/vw-321/a321540691101.pdf)
Bosal (Not GTI) ( RRP £346.63) – Our Price £205.00 click here for fitting instructions (http://www.catalogue.bosal.com/pdf/pdf_mi/031713.pdf)
Brink (RRP £338.99) – Our Price £237.00 click here for fitting instructions (http://www.brinkweb.com/trekhaak.php?lid=1&mid=36&moid=12265&artnr=427600)
Witter (requires OE plate for GTI models see link for details) (RRP £338.99) – Our Price £237.00 click here for fitting instructions (http://www.witter-towbars.co.uk/towbars/vehicle_technical_details.aspx?VehicleTowbarID=217 3)
GDW (RRP 314.33) – Our Price £264.03

If you have any further questions please get back to us.

Yours

James, Tony, Sue & Paul

Towbars Direct

[Ben]

Today I emaild vw dealers in Tamworth, Nuneaton, Coventry and Stratford with the following.....

"Please could you tell me the cost of a rear bumper lower skirt complete with the cut out and blanking plate for the tow bar, all painted in reflex silver for a 2004 MK5 Golf GT TDI?

On top of this price, how much would the fitting and labour be?

Regards"

Only reply so far is from Tamworth is as follows....

The rear bumber spoiler only comes in black @ 42.47 + vat, The labour to fit is 38.19 + vat. In total £94.77

I'll update as the info comes in.

[Captain Answer]

Whoever did the cut on that blue golf above should never be allowed near a spanner again, I'd say it looks DIY but I suspect it isn't

Anyway, NATO hitch :biglaugh: The only way you'll pull a tree

[rainsensor]

Hi,
I have been having the same problem, trying to find a towbar for my MkV Golf that won't ruin the aesthetic look of the car.
The Volkswagen Golf accessories brochure for Ireland lists a detachable towbar (http://www.volkswagen-accessories.ie/towbar_detachable2), that does not appear to require a bumper cut:

http://www.volkswagen-accessories.ie/images/golftowbar_l.jpg
(http://www.volkswagen-accessories.ie/towbar_detachable2)

I contacted a couple of Volkswagen dealers in Ireland, and they quoted me an incredible €1,000 (£676) for the detachable towbar (including fitting, electrics, and VAT)! :bigeyes2:
They said they could fit a fixed (non-detachable) towbar for €580 (£392), but that it would require a bumper cut.
The reason they gave for the difference in cost is because the detachable version is much more difficult to fit, and because the detachable hitch costs more than its fixed counterpart. Here is the breakdown:
Detachable: (Total: €995/£673)
Labour: €560 (£378)
Parts: €435 (£294)
Hitch: €290 (£196)
Electrics: €145 (£98) Fixed: (Total: €580/£392)
Labour: €360 (£243)
Parts: €220 (£148)I suspect that the original VW detachable towbar might be the same as the Westfalia towbar, though Westfalia in their reply to you indicated that their towbar required a bumper cut (even though their installation manual (http://www.westfalia-automotive.de/pdf/vw-321/a321540691101.pdf) makes no mention of one), while the VW dealer told me it would not require any alteration to the bumper.
So I think I have found a towbar that won't affect the appearance of the car, but it is so costly I am having difficulty justifying the expense. :dunno:

[rainsensor]

I was driving home last night, when I pulled up behind a MkV Golf with a bumper cut at the lights. It didn't have a towbar attached at the time. Either the bumper cut had been made for a detachable towbar, or for a fixed towbar which had since been removed.
Anyway, all I had to hand was my crappy camera phone, and I snapped this low-res photo before he pulled away: (click on the photo for a larger version)

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1142/559675246_f7f9561288.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photo_zoom.gne?id=559675246&context=photostream&size=o)

The cut was quite large (I would say about 2"x4"), and very noticeable against the silver exhaust underneath. TBH, it looked ghastly.

[Ben]

Thank you for your information and photos. I'm going to look in to this more closely. Ive not seen many MK5 golfs with a tow bar, so it comes as no suprise that we only have 3 documented examples. Yes, from the photo you supply, although not the best under the circumstances, you can deffo tell that it looks a tad nasty.:yikes: :puke:

[Ben]

I'd like to further my thanks to rainsensor for posting the vw accessories link on the tow bar. Carefull reading of the information gives us the manufacturer ORIS. I've located their website http://www.oris-gmbh.de/english/

and here is a rather interesting video http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/th_oristowbar.jpg (http://s208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/?action=view&current=oristowbar.flv)

I'll now try to locate a retailer and also find out which VAG cars the do tow bars for.

BEn

[Ben]

I'm just waiting on the OK for me to send the following email to the manufacturers of the above ^ tow bar. Their email is info@oris-gmbh.de

Hello,

I'm doing research to share with an online community, (www.vwaudiforum.co.uk (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/)) in to the fitting of removable tow bars primarily on to VW Mk5 golf's and to other cars of the VAG group, VW, Audi, Seat, Skoda. One of the parameters I've set myself for this research is that any removable tow bar must be able to be fitted and fully functional without the need to cut any part of the bumper.

I am hoping to be able to compile a list of VAG vehicles that can be fitted with a removable tow bar and with your assistance I was hoping you could supply a up to date list of VAG vehicles that you produce a removable tow bar for.

I have visited your website www.oris-gmbh.de/english/ (http://www.oris-gmbh.de/english/) and can only locate a list of manufacturers, not specific models.

I have also been passed information about a tow bar you produce for VW Golf MK5 (http://www.volkswagen-accessories.ie/towbar_detachable2 (http://www.volkswagen-accessories.ie/towbar_detachable2)) yet your website doesn't mention the MK5

The reasons why I have taken it upon myself to do this research in particular in to removable tow bars can be located here http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?p=48633#post48633 (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?p=48633#post48633) as you can see there is evidence of very poor workmanship when it comes to the cutting of bumpers and the overall look of the rear of the car when fitted.

I should like it known that I have checked that it is permissible to use the vwaudiforum name in this email and I trust that it will be acceptable to publish your response to this email with the rest of my research on www.vwaudiforum.co.uk (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/)

Many Thanks

[Ben]

I just found this website http://www.bosal.com/international/?open=pa-towbarsandesets.htm&lang=english note the AK40/41

BOSAL INTERNATIONAL

and from their catalouges section i've found this (you have to select make and model of car from list) http://www.catalogue.bosal.com/pages/tow_select_order_list.php?query_nr=20&carspecnr=900113 its the 4th one in the list AK40/41 and the bumper cut is invisible

here is the pdf download http://www.catalogue.bosal.com/pdf/pdf_mi/048193.pdf

it mentions about removing existing spoiler and replacing with new..... I'll look further.;)

[Ben]

Today, whilst sat in a traffic jam on the A34 Just north of the M4 I spyed another golf with a towbar.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/22062007179.jpghttp://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/22062007178.jpg

[rainsensor]

That's interesting, I can't spot any visible bumper cut in that photo. I wonder which towbar manufacturer it is? It is not obvious either from the picture whether or not it is a detachable towbar.

[Ben]

Maybe i should of put a little extra text. It is not removable. From my vantage point, Transit height in the next lane, I could see a bumper cut but it wasn't very visible, the tow bar hides it. I couldn't really get out my vehicle as it was stop start, but i got the best photo i could with my phone on full zoom.

Either way its not very well looked after, the electrical socket cover flap is broken off and its mounting is all bent, there is slight corrosion and there is added a bicycle carrying attachment. Plus it sticks out a mile!

Still, I was quite pleased i saw another example.

I saw another MK5 a bit later on too and it was actually towing an empty twin axle car trailer, couldn't photo as i was as speed.

[rainsensor]

A bloke in the UK got this Witter towbar for his GTI. It's a detachable towbar, and requires a special bumper with a removable panel. It actually hides the towbar quite neatly.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v101/David72/smalltowbar1.jpg

More photos here: http://www.golfmkv.com/forums/showpost.php?p=40842&postcount=2
And he discusses the price and other stuff here: http://www.golfmkv.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3019

[Ben]

Many thanks to rainsensor - I've decided the path i'd like to take with my towbar. see the above image^^.

Thisafternoon I paid a visit to my local VW dealership - Listers of Coventry and got quotes for the following... new lower skirt with cut out, the tow bar and it seems the electrics are a seperate item too.

here is the results, in image for should any one question the part numbers.

Lower skirt, I was pleasantly suprised at this price. I thought it would be well in to 3 figures.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/lowerskirt005.jpg


Here are the 2 quotes for the tow bar and electrics. I made them in to one image.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/towbarquote.jpg
This is a bit pricey so i'll continue to hunt for better deals.

As requested i've enlarged the image with my scanner.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/largerimageoftowbar.jpg

BEn

[Ben]

Just got off the phone to towbars direct, by heck do they know their stuff, If any one is looking in to a tow bar speak to these guys. I was enquiring in to the Witter removable at £237 and they said that the better tow bar is the Westfalia at £149. Now thats honesty!:fing02:

The electrics Quoted by Vw are the 13 pin european electrical plug which is too much if you only going to tow a little box trailer. Plus you'll need a converter if you want to tow a british caravan.

I'm awaiting an email from towbarsdirect to confirm the following figures. They said they can supply me with the tow bar £149 + british electrics £30, postage £10. all in £189.00:bigeyes2: which i think, as i'm sure you'll agree, knocks spots off the £235 + £229 (£464.00) that VW wanted to charge.

All i have to do now is order the new bumper skirt @ 49.90 and get it colour coded and order the tow bar. I don't see that there is much point looking much further, but i probably will;) .

So far potential costs total £49.90 + £189.00 add to this the painting and a bit of labour to fit the tow bar and i don't think i'll have done too badly.

I'll amend this post when i have the exact figures.

I have now recieved the confirmation email and here is the amendment as promised....


Following your telephone conversation with James a few minutes ago, I confirm our prices below.


Towbar and Accessories

Westfalia EC Type Approved Quick Release Detachable Towbar for VW Golf Hatch Mark V - £149.00
Universal Single Electrical Kit with Multiplex By-Pass Relay - £26.45
UK mainland carriage (excluding IV & KW postcode areas) - £10.00
TOTAL OF ABOVE - £185.45


Notes

All prices include VAT
Towbars are designed to fit UK/European Versions and can not be guaranteed to fit imports/non EU vehicles
With a few exceptions, towbars are normally dispatched the same day on orders received before 2pm Monday to Friday.
Orders are taken over the phone on 01925 730 005.
Please note some Westfalia/GDW/Brink towbars may take slightly longer to dispatch.
We welcome collections but please check to see if we have the required towbar in stock and reserve it. If not in stock we can normally get it within 24 to 48 working hours
We are open from 7.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 2.30pm on Saturdays.
Full details of how to find us and a link to a map are at http://www.towbarsdirect.co.uk/location.htm
We accept Visa (including Visa Delta), Visa Electron, MasterCard, Maestro (Switch) and Solo cards.
Although towbars are sent on next working day delivery (to most areas) we cannot guarantee delivery especially if nobody is home to sign for it. We advise to allow up to 3 working days from dispatch.
We supply to the UK, Isle of Man and the Channel Isles. I am afraid we do not supply outside these areas (including the Republic of Ireland and the USA).
Unless stated these are supply only prices. I am afraid that we only fit at our premises between Warrington and Northwich in Cheshire.

If you have any further questions please get back to us.

Yours

James, Tony, Sue & Paul
Towbars Direct
Norbrook Trailers Ltd
Tarporley Road
Whitley
Warrington
WA4 4DS

01925 730 005
www.towbarsdirect.co.uk (http://www.towbarsdirect.co.uk)


BEn

Westfalia website http://www.westfalia-automotive.de/e_frameset.htm

Witter website http://www.witter-towbars.co.uk/default.aspx

Bosal website http://www.catalogue.bosal.com/pages/index.php?country=GB&language=EN&save_settings=on

Brink website http://www.brinkweb.com/index.php?lid=1&mid=36&moid=12265&artnr=427600&&PHPSESSID=a177fadfdae91edff0488fab0e3ade60

PCT website http://www.pct.eu.com/automotive/index.htm

Tow bars direct website http://www.towbarsdirect.co.uk/

My advice to those who want to get a towbar fitted to their car is to approach their local dealer, find out what they would use if supplied on a new car or on your car at the time it was new. Also look in to wether you'll require a bumper cut or not and if the dealer supply oem bumpers like VW do for the MK5 Golf.

Visit the tow bar manufacturers website and further research the towbar your dealer recommended.

Get in touch with tow bars direct and see how much you could save plus they'll answer any questions that your dealer may want to try and avoid or just not be fully informed upon.

I hope this helps.

BEn

[Ben]

Today I extracted yet more information out of VW. This particular information will be helpful to you if you have the urge to remove your rear bumper.

The images consist of 1 diagram and 4 pages of corrisponding part numbers and names.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/bumpersketch.jpghttp://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/bumperpg1.jpghttp://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/bumperpg2.jpghttp://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/bumperpg3.jpghttp://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/bumperpg4.jpg

[Flash2]

Just a little more info for you all. I've just fitted a VW detachable towbar to a MK5 Golf. The one that requires a ruddy big whole to be cut in the bumper. I carefully marked out and cut the bumper, but the cover plate that is supplied with the towbar wouldn't fit properly. It didn't match the profile of the bumper. It says in the instructions that the towbar also fits a Golf+. That explains why the cover doesn't fit very well because the Golf+ bumper is a different shape from the standard Golf, yet it's one cover to fit both bumpers:( .
Then you have to remove half the vehicle interior to fit the electrics. There is a big control box that gets bolted behind the N/S boot trim. You then need to remove the back seat and the sill trims from both sides, the O/S kickwell trim, O/S lower dash trim and the fusebox. You need to run a wiring loom with the CAN bus wires from the boot into the passenger area, under the back seat, down under the O/S sill trim and into a control unit behind the O/S dash trim. You then need to disassemble the fusebox and insert a couple of connectors and fit new fuses. Then you have to refit all the parts you removed. Then you think you've finished, but you haven't because now you have to tell the onboard computers that you have just fitted a towbar. Then you try and test the electrics, only you can't because the trailer board you use to test it has a 7 pin plug and the towbar has 13 pins:mad: . So you try to probe the pins with a test light, only that doesn't work because the bulb failure circuit doesn't like the 5 Watt bulb in your test light:zx11: . So you have to connect a 55 Watt front fog lamp bulb in series with the test lamp to make it work. Time to complete the job - 7Hours (where did VW get 4Hrs from?). Only the job isn't finished yet because the customer (quite rightly) doesn't like the look of the dodgy cover plate, so the bumper has to come back off to fit the factory cut spoiler and cover.

NEVER AGAIN!

Jim.

[golf tdi 02]

bosal in attleborough fields ind est nuneaton they fit anything
worth a go hey?:1zhelp:

[Ben]

Sorry to hear that Jim, as you have read, i've been very thorough in my research before spending money or cutting.

I am also very aware about the 13 pin issue. This seems to be a european thing that has not as yet be made standard policy across the EU. This is one of the reasons i'll not be buying my bar or electrics off VW, the other reason is price.

Don't let this experience put you off Jim. To keep my costs down, i'm sourcing all the parts myself and will then look for someone to fit. If they then balls it up, they can pay to have it put right.

All the best

BEn

[Ben]

I'd like to add to this thread, with some very good research, information and photographs kindly put together and made aware to me by VWAF member PASSAT170TD1 (Niel).

All his research can be seen in this thread here http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?p=53216#post53216

Many thanks PASSAT170TD1 (Niel), for all your efforts, and i hope that it all proves helpfull to others.

Nice work :beerchug:

Extending the arm of gratitude to STEVE3 and DAVIDP for all their research, photographs and exchange of views with regard to the EOS towbar in this thread http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=4117

Nice work to both you guys :beerchug:

I'd now like to add massive thanks to PP241 for his efforts in fitting his own electrics on his 07 B6 estate 140 TDI. Read about it here http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?p=61960&posted=1#post61960 Its this thread that set my mind at ease and PP241 (paul) has been a great help in answering many silly questions.:bigok::beerchug:

Bob Has fitted a towbar to his new Jetta, Still awaiting pics http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=14629

EDIT on 16/05/2008

would just like to add a link to this thread in the A6 section. hopefull it will continue to gather momentum. http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=37208

[Ben]

quick update,

I'm just about set to begin ordering bits and peices. Still need to confirm the spray shop tho as most want to see what they are going to be spraying. Got a few other things to do around the house, which unfortunately rank higher in the priority stakes.

Will edit and update accordingly.

Thanks

[Ben]

New rear skirt ordered - a few pence less than £50.00 from VW dealer. Will collect it Friday afternoon or Saturday AM.

Also made fruther enquiries on to the method of instaling the electrics. This seems complex to me but then i'm not an electrical ecpert.

The VW system requires the removal of most of the interior trim to allow the cable to be run up behing the dash somewhere where it just plugs in to the canbus system and would therefore need programming.

The system i'm looking at is aimed very much at the simple / self instalation. Basically it feeds off the wires going to the rear cluster but not the canbus wires. It also requires a feed from a permanent live, i'll be using the feed from the power supply socket in the boot.

I have obtained a copy of the electrical instalation instructions in the form of a pdf document but at nearly 700kb its too big to upload so i've made each page an image and did it that way.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/page1.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/page2.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/page3.jpg

Hopefully i'll be ordering the towbar tomorrow.

[Ben]

Hi
I picke my bumper up this afternoon.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/03082007263.jpg
Oddly it doesn't come with any fittings, not even the towing hook cap. Suppose i'll just have to use the ones that are currently on the car.

I also ordered the tow bar today. i'll have that on Monday:D

Going on a tour of local spray shops tomorrow to get some quotes

[Ben]

Got my tow bar.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/06082007264.jpg

:D:D:D

[Ben]

On the subject of towing electrics, i have happened upon this information.http://www.towitall.co.uk/trailer_wiring/instructions.htm and this http://www.rydertowing.co.uk/default.htm
I thought these would be very useful and may answer any question people may have.

[Ben]

4 days and £75 cash;) later, we have one silver bumper.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/09082007266.jpg

[Ben]

Got all the bits now and today 11/08/2007 9am began the job. Finished it about 6pm but had lunch and dinner breaks, and plenty of tea and thinking time.

You can read about all the ins and outs of fitting the towbar in the How To section (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=167) of the forum and here is a direct link (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=13686).

here are the results.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/11082007287.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/11082007288.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/11082007289.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/11082007290.jpg

[Ben]

This is one of the uses that i'll be using my tow bar for.
http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=14028

[j3ggo]

Does anyone have a really good photo of an SIARR swan neck for a golf 5? Has anyone got one of these, and how good are they?

[Ben]

Does anyone have a really good photo of an SIARR swan neck for a golf 5? Has anyone got one of these, and how good are they?

Welcome to the problem.

The problem that is finding pictures:zx11:

[j3ggo]

:o

[j3ggo]

I fitted this westfalia swan neck double electrics to my dads golf 5. looks quite good but the electrics are bulky. have a look at the photos and let me know what you think. bargain price from towequipe and at less then £50 the bumper is disposable.

Personally i like the siarr no cut swan neck.

[j3ggo]

VW Golf 5 swan neck no bumper cut made by SIARR, its a french company http://www.siarr.fr/
I understand they have been bought by westfalia?

I’ve put one on my Golf.

enjoy
done it, got my siarr on. brilliant - very tidy and no cutting - truly superb from www.towbarsdirect.co.uk

just need to paint it and do the electrics. It took approx 1.5 hrs to put it on.

[j3ggo]

my new siarr swan neck, all in it cost £135.46 including electics - very pleased. how do I upload a pdf? Contact eurobars ltd 01733 555263

[j3ggo]

I have an 12n trailer single electrics problem
only when the ignition is off this happend when i use the parking lights.
when i put left indicator on both trailer tail lights come on
when i put right indicator no trailer tail lights come on?
any ideas?
indicators work fine
tail lights work fine
brake works fine
any ideas anyone.
system fully multiplexed

[Ben]

Something has gone awry in your wiring somewhere. You'll need to double check everything, you got it right on your dads.:confused:

It could be the trailer light board, try a different one?

Could you share with us how helpfull the Tow Bar Thread was, was it missing anything?

Your bumper cut on your dads is a true work of art from what we can see. It puts all the pro's work at the start of this thread to shame.

Your swan neck looks like the one i pictured in france.

may a suggest using photobucket as you images will be bigger once posted.

[Ben]

I fitted this westfalia swan neck double electrics to my dads golf 5. looks quite good but the electrics are bulky. have a look at the photos and let me know what you think. bargain price from towequipe and at less then £50 the bumper is disposable.

Personally i like the siarr no cut swan neck.

This is why i wanted a 'hidden' soloution, there is space within the bumper for both electric hook ups.

[j3ggo]

my mate shain did the electrics on my dads golf because i didn't have time to do it, i shall check my dads golf when i see it.

i never use the parking lights, but it would be nice to know what causes the problem.

my electrics are to the letter on the diagram and other than the parking lights when the ignition is off they work fine.

golfgttdi do your parking lights work ok? did you use a full wiring kit or did you use multiplex relay?

your string is good, it helped me make my decision to buy the siarr as it looks so good on the french golf. what a fantastic towbar - no bumper cut, smart, neat and functional. I'm an engineer and very very fussy. things have to be just perfect and anything less is not good enough.

[Ben]

I used a multiplex relay.

I don't use my parking lights either.

you have to take the feed signal off both indicators and also both side lights, so assuming your electrics go to the right of the boot, you should have 2 feeds coming from the left of the car.

Alternativly, get your mate to check your work. There is no shame in that.

Other than asking the obvious, i really dunno.

When doing mine, we had a trailer board hooked up and found to our brief shock that 3 bulbs didn't light when expected. This was down to dirty contacts.

Thank you for your comments on the Thread.

[j3ggo]

have you tried yours parking lights with a trailer board attached. I would like to hear if yours work ok? It would be uselful for me with a caravan attached on a dark lane!!!???

[Ben]

have you tried yours parking lights with a trailer board attached. I would like to hear if yours work ok? It would be uselful for me with a caravan attached on a dark lane!!!???

I will be in a position to test this question on wednesday. I also am required to remember.:p

[AMPJ8]

I wanted to know more about the tow bars and now thanks to you I have all that I needed!
I may add to my GTI a tow bar mainly to put the bike rack or one of those THULE boxes that go on the tow bar rack, after reading it seems to me that I'll be ok. Liked your solution GOLFMK5GTTDI even if need to have a hole on the bumper.

Has any one experience with one of those Thule Boxes that go on the back? over the bar?:confused:

Thanks.
AMPJ

[Ben]

Just got the recipt in the post thismorning from towbars direct. I'm posting it so that you can all see how the costs break down, as some members only require the electrics.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/towbarrecipt014.jpg

[j3ggo]

i have just acquired a full current flow diagram for the golf 5, very useful for identifying colours of wires for towbar electrics. see attached or however it looks, its a pdf. -------------------- Tried but cant do it, if i reduce the file size you wont be able to read it. its only 179kb. What use is the limit of 19k on this website?`

[Ben]

i have just acquired a full current flow diagram for the golf 5, very useful for identifying colours of wires for towbar electrics. see attached or however it looks, its a pdf. -------------------- Tried but cant do it, if i reduce the file size you wont be able to read it. its only 179kb. What use is the limit of 19k on this website?`

This is the document j3ggo was refering to. Many thanks for emailing it to me.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/Scan-1.jpg

[Sam]

What use is the limit of 19k on this website?`

Server/storage space isn't free ;)

[j3ggo]

the resolution is still not good enough for the wiring diagram, i will scan and send to golfgttdi again.

[Ben]

the resolution is still not good enough for the wiring diagram, i will scan and send to golfgttdi again.

Hi, i recieved your email and using photoshop i increased the image size to 90cm wide and the hight in proportion and i've loaded it back in place of the 1st attempt, unfortunately viewing on the forum site is only in one size. Should anyone want a closer look, they should save the image to their PC and enlarge it themselves.

BEn

[Ben]

Does anyone have a really good photo of an SIARR swan neck for a golf 5? Has anyone got one of these, and how good are they?
Here is the picture of the Siarr swan neck you sent me. It looks just like the French tow bar pictured in post 1 of this thread.;)

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/Siarrtowbar.jpg

[Ben]

Another view of the above tow bar pictured thistime from underneath.

Chees Scott.:beerchug:
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/siaarunderside.jpg

[Ben]

Today i saw this... a Lupo with a detachable towbar, now , although the bumper cut looks a bit rough around the edges, it does have a bespoke cover plate that makes it look quite smart.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/lupo.jpg

[Ben]

have you tried yours parking lights with a trailer board attached. I would like to hear if yours work ok? It would be uselful for me with a caravan attached on a dark lane!!!???

I haddn't forgotten, with trailer board attached and either the left or right parking light on, both side light lights on the trailer board remain illuminated.

[j3ggo]

mine is the same so no worries, thanks. I bought a thule cycle carrier for up to 3 bikes. i shall send you an email with the photo.

[j3ggo]

my thule carrier off ebay - bargain

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=160157930876&ssPageName=STRK:MEWN:IT&ih=006

[Ben]

I have no knowledge, intension or need to tow a caravan, so don't ask about stabalisers as i don't know anything about them.

Willing to learn though.;)

[j3ggo]

I'm considering a WS3000 Winterhoff or AL-KO 1300 stabiliser, I shall be importng my Caravan from Belgium next easter fingers crossed.

[Ben]

What does a stabaliser do that good sensible driving doesn't?

Does it help eliminate 'wobble' or assist against the risk of jacknife?

[Wazza_G]

A stabiliser does exactly what it says, my old man has one fitted to his caravan and he tows it with a 2,0 Passat, it stops snaking & rocking when you pass an artic' or one passes you.

He swears by it as it makes driving/towing relaxed & easy & wouldn't be without it.

[penrecon]

I'm considering a WS3000 Winterhoff or AL-KO 1300 stabiliser, I shall be importng my Caravan from Belgium next easter fingers crossed.

I've had very good experience on two different caravans with Alko stabilisers - I'd recommend them.

And in answer to the question do they do anything that good driving doesn't - the answer is yes, they will prevent swaying from cross winds, turbulence and generally significantly increase the stability of the outfit.

I'm a little puzzled why they seem to be only used on caravans and not other trailers though - some boat trailers would benefit from them min my experience, however they wouldn't take well to being dunked into the water!

[bobj]

Hi, Having seen some of the tow bars above I was unsure about fitting a tow bar to my Mkv, however, I trusted the dealer and got what i think is a great job (sorry I didn't wash the car before taking the picture). What do you guy's think?

[Ben]

How did they do that?

is it a prescisely cut hole or am i missing something.

[bobj]

Hi, The hole is precisley cut, however, there is also a straight cut from the bottom of the valence into the hole, which I assume was to allow the bar to be inserted and keep the hole to the minimum diameter.

I'm pretty pleased with it and it's a witter bar and didn't cost the earth

[j3ggo]

The valance line at the bottom looks not quite straight, I've seen a few bars like yours and they do look good. Personally I like the swan necks but that only my opinion.

[j3ggo]

I've ordered my barand new caravan Hymer Eriba Touring Puck 230 GT, will be made next feb. I opted not to buy a stabilizer as its more cost and you have to draw a line somewhere. I hope i dont regret it. Would'nt do my SIARR or Golf much good if the caravan rolled over.

[bobj]

Hi, I think it's just the angle I took the shot at and a digital camera fluke, I have just popped out to check the valence and it's all straight and aligned. Well spotted though.

My intention is only to tow a small trailer and bike rack so should do the Job.

Enjoy the Golf and the new caravan when it arrives.:approve:

[Ben]

Recieved 2 more pics from J3GGO - cheers buddy

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/IMG_4686-01.jpghttp://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/IMG_4689-01.jpg

Its a witter and looks distinctly like the one that BOBJ has fitted.

[j3ggo]

Recieved 2 more pics from J3GGO - cheers buddy

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/IMG_4686-01.jpghttp://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/IMG_4689-01.jpg

Its a witter and looks distinctly like the one that BOBJ has fitted.

The cut actally looks very neat. Especially the vertical cut, you can hardly see it.

[AliasOmega]

I know im new, but..

I would ask the question why they could not ty-wrap the cable to the tow bar, and take it though the bumper hole at the bottom.

Also on the cut section of bumper, you could probably plastex the rear to stop it moving and cracking further.

I know the big hole acts as a stop drill, but every little helps.

[carltabs]

Hi,

Just wanted to say thanks again to 'golfmk5gttdi' for the write-up. I have posted a couple of images of my Golf, now fitted with my new bumper and tow bar :-) I am extremely happy with the outcome!

You will also see my reverse sensors that I fitted at the same time - which proved more difficult than the tow-bar! Linking into the reverse light circuit, and for those of you that know, is no easy task runing a wire to the tail-gate!!

Great forum, glad I found you!!!

Carl Tabs

[j3ggo]

Its a bit late now but you don't need to run cables into the tailgate, you can pick up the loom on the nearside of the car up high in the boot and into the C pillar. You need to loosen the white trim to get it. Thats what I did.;)

[j3ggo]

I'm thinking of buying a 07 Passat 1.9TDI 105PS Estate, mainly due to my expanding family and we collect our Caravan on the 5th April. We need the space and the Golf SDI is a bit small and might struggle when its fully loaded and being driven through the Alps this summer. I've seen a couple at £11,988 main VW dealer done approx 14K they seem a good buy. What do you guys think? I would like a silver one. Will then need a new towbar! Shall probably buy a 13PIN as thats what the caravan is as its from Belgium. Also does anyone want to buy a mint Bora 1.6SE 72K 99T Bright Green Met £2995ono family owned from 6 months old.

[carltabs]

Its a bit late now but you don't need to run cables into the tailgate, you can pick up the loom on the nearside of the car up high in the boot and into the C pillar. You need to loosen the white trim to get it. Thats what I did.;)

Hi, I did try and get that white piece of trim off actually to assist - but gave up on that, since that was very difficult too.
The whole car is a blummin nightmare to work on :( Everything is so tighly placed.

My boot didn't have a 12v supply socket, nor had a 12v supply of any kind I could link into, consequently, I to run a supply directly from the fuse board. AGAIN, what a blummin nightmare that was, trying to get a single wire through the existing grommet from under the foot well into the engine bay! My hands look like I have been self harming!!!

But the whole job cost me just over £200 whereas a neighbour paid VW for something similar just under a grand for a tow bar and sensors, and his tow bar looks rubbish in comparison! :p

carltabs

[j3ggo]

have you got any photos? scott.

[mojofilter]

Just finished fitting my towbar about an hour ago, but due to numerous rain / sleet showers, I spent more time in the house than working.

Never got round to doing the electrics tho. I was thinking of taking the boat out for a blast tomorrow, so I'll need to get my mate to follow me! :D

Thanks in particular to golfmk5gttdi and also j3ggo for a great thread. :biggthump

Will post the obligatory photos tomorrow! ;)

mojo

[mojofilter]

Sorry, only had my phone with me for pics at the time. :o

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y133/stuartyr/transport/DSC00164.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y133/stuartyr/transport/DSC00165.jpg

[hogwash]

;) Very interesting. In due course I'm going to have a tow bar fitted to my Golf gt tdi to take the carrying kit which takes 3 bikes.
I think it's much safer having bikes on kit attached to the tow bar rather than leaning on the back of the car or on the top.
Looking at the photos I think I'll go with the swan neck for aesthetic reasons. It should do the job.
hogwash

[ipilot]

Hi,

Thanks for your efforts but I can't see the detail on your post. Any Chance you cold just read off the original and post the deatails i.e. Right Tail Libht Bulb = Grey/Yellow etc ?

Cheers

Mark (New VW Owner ;-)





This is the document j3ggo was refering to. Many thanks for emailing it to me.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/Scan-1.jpg

[Ben]

Try that.

Sorry for the fancy lettering.;)

[j3ggo]

I have a problem, I am changing to a 13 Pin socket so I dont have to use a converter on my caravan. The problem is I can't fing the wiring diagram for the TEB7AS bypass relay. Also the relay is now making a permanent high pitch squeel with no wires pluged in on the socket side. I have not touched the wires to the cars wiring, I thought it would be easy but it has beat me! Can you help? Scott. :zx11:

[kmac9909]

Just fitted a towbar to my Ford Galaxy without bumper cut. Fitted single electircs all works nice. Towtrust towbar kit from Towequipe all for £115 delivered. Nice people to deal with.
Glad I didn't blow money on having it fitted as it was easier than I thought it was going to be.

[j3ggo]

;) Very interesting. In due course I'm going to have a tow bar fitted to my Golf gt tdi to take the carrying kit which takes 3 bikes.
I think it's much safer having bikes on kit attached to the tow bar rather than leaning on the back of the car or on the top.
Looking at the photos I think I'll go with the swan neck for aesthetic reasons. It should do the job.
hogwash

The swan neck siarr is great if you can get one, no bumper cut and very neat. I have just wired a new 13 pin socket for the caravan so the fridge and interior lights work all through 1 socket. Also the swan neck does not flex like people might say, its a strong forging, and anyway a towbar is only as strong as the bolts that attach them to the car. I have a thule 3 bike euro classic international, it great. Slowly though I am running out of space and need a bigger home now I have my caravan. I will post a photo.

P.S. the caravan fits in the garage...

[rodie]

hi i have a golf plus , looking to get a tow bar , is it worth getting the electrcs that tell the car when its towing ? abs and stuff ? we are towing a caravan to france but was just going to take it easy , thanks rod

[worthyone]

On the subject of towing electrics, i have happened upon this information.http://www.towitall.co.uk/trailer_wiring/instructions.htm and this http://www.rydertowing.co.uk/default.htm
I thought these would be very useful and may answer any question people may have.

Hi where did you get your bumber from and was the whole pre cut like that?

Cheers

[Ben]

everything you need to know is in this thread. start at page 1.

[worthyone]

Cheers buddy I'll take a look

[peter cresswell]

No Cut Tow-Bars

SIARR do one with either a swan neck or a flange fixing.

SIARR are French which probably explains the poor finish. They are part of westfalia.

I would say however that this is the heaviest towbar I can remember.

Both fixings are de-mountable. I have bought the Swan nech so the electrcs can be mounter to the car end. These can fold up under the bumper if tou use a non rusting nut and bolt to secure the business enf to the tow bar.

Fitting is easy.

regards

peter

[paddy8710]

there is not a towbar available that doesnt need a cut even the bosal 1 that says its invisable is not!!!!! In reference to replacing the bumper it is the lower spoiler of the bumper (black section) which comes with a trim panel in it so when the neck is removed said panel will sit back in bumper for an almost invisable instalation!!!!!! i know this because i do fit quite alot for the local V.W dealer!!!!

[j3ggo]

mine is a siarr, no bumber cut guaranteed. its superb. I think its the best you can buy.

[j3ggo]

No Cut Tow-Bars

SIARR do one with either a swan neck or a flange fixing.

SIARR are French which probably explains the poor finish. They are part of westfalia.

I would say however that this is the heaviest towbar I can remember.

Both fixings are de-mountable. I have bought the Swan nech so the electrcs can be mounter to the car end. These can fold up under the bumper if tou use a non rusting nut and bolt to secure the business enf to the tow bar.

Fitting is easy.

regards

peter

mine is a siarr, the finish is really good. the forged neck and ball are electrostatically painted so the thickness and adhesion are excellent. the welded assy is poweder coated so it looks good. its no heavier than the westfalia i fitted to my dads mk5. no bumper cut either. scott

[peter cresswell]

Pickles is a really handsome pig and what a nice change from cars!

Happy new year

Peter

[sollenelle]

Great thread thanks. This is an update on prices as at January 2009.
After deciding I needed a towbar on my Golf Mk5 on Sunday 11th Jan 2009, I found this thread on Sunday, decided I would take the same route as Pickles, ordered the pre-cut bumper from Nottingham VW on Monday morning, ordered the Westfalia towbar and electrics from Towbars Direct on Monday afternoon, received the bumper at 9.00a.m. Wednesday and the towbar at 11.00 Wednesday. Went to my trusted local car mechanic on Wednesday p.m. and he booked me in to fit the towbar next Monday morning. One week from decision to buy, to towbar being fitted. The bumper bit cost £52.38 from VW and the towbar and electrics was a total of £206.45 from towbars Direct. Excellent!

[frankie#1]

The VW genuine removeable towbar is the best opption, you can also buy a new lower bumper section with a removeable cover. both are quite reasonbly priced.

[PFJones]

VW Touareg Towbar (http://www.pfjones.co.uk/tow-bars/towbars-volkswagen/touareg-towbars.html) Westfalia towbars (http://www.pfjones.co.uk)

http://www.pfjones.co.uk/ebay/forums/touaregb4.jpg
http://www.pfjones.co.uk/ebay/forums/touaregon.jpg

[PFJones]

Audi Q7 Towbar (http://www.pfjones.co.uk/tow-bars/audi-towbars/audi-q7-towbars.html) Audi Towbars (http://www.pfjones.co.uk/tow-bars/audi-towbars.html)

http://www.pfjones.co.uk/ebay/forums/q7b4.jpg

http://www.pfjones.co.uk/ebay/forums/q7side%20on.jpg

http://www.pfjones.co.uk/ebay/forums/q7on.jpg

[richard@thebrae]

My post is to obtain details on the towbar electrics as the towbars and fitting is very well covered and my thanks to all who have contributed.
It is clear that the VW retrofit electrics are a nightmare, but no details are given other than the cursing of the difficulties.
My 1st question can anyone expand and perhaps give a howto on what is involved.
My 2nd question is if I use the multiplex relay route again can anyone provide a howto fit this in a proffesional manner, and does this run along side the vehicle canbus sytem with no ill effects
I only will have a bike carrier and perhaps the thule box with the very occasional use of a small trailer.
I am nervous and uncomfortable of hacking into wiring looms especialy on a new car, hence my requests. Your help and advice will be appreciated.

[martin1810]

If you are worried about the electrics, buy the vw kit. That just plugs in. If you go the bypass relay route it is very simple especially as you won't be fitting the extra caravan wiring I assume. The bypass relay gets all its power from a new 12v feed and has nothing to do with the can-bus system. You then use the post can-bus wires for indicators, lights etc to energise the individual relays. This places no real strain on the can-bus system. It's not easy to give you exact fitting instructions as it depends on who supplies your relay.

[benny303]

Guys I installed a removeable tow bar to my 1999 GT TDI golf and have now bought a 2005 GT TDI golf. Can I use this tow bar on my new golf or do I just sell it on my the 99 one.

[PFJones]

HI there

just done a very quick check

the MK4 GTI towbar by Witter towbars (http://www.pfjones.co.uk) is the VW43L

The MK5 Witter towbar is the VW49 is the correct tow bar

there are many other types of towbar of course than the 2 mentioned above, but it appears you will not be able to fit your towbar to your new vehicle.

do you know what make and model number is on your tow bar?

for a instant answer call 0800 5200 478 and ask for Brian please mention vwaudiforum

VW towbars (http://www.pfjones.co.uk/tow-bars/towbars-volkswagen.html)

[Kevster140]

Hi guys, My Dad has just had a towbar fitted to his MK5 GT Sport today. Took VW nearly all day to do it but apparently it looks good. Will post some piccys and details once i see it for myself.

Edit: As promised here are the pictures below.

- This is the VW genuine kit fitted by uk dealer (made by Westfalia).
- It has the new bumper with cover and European single 13pin socket, hence a converter for (in this case) twin UK electrics. (all new caravans have this new single 13pin set up we're told)
- Heat shield also added
- New wiring loom was run up the near side to near fuse box in bonnet (to get power and add two fues and reply) via fuse box in dash board (3 new fuses)
- Also this loam disables the parking sensors when the electrics are plugged in (not that you'd need them when you have a caravan on the back!)

Fitted:

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c47/Kevsterci/DSC00875Medium.jpg

Removed with cover:

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c47/Kevsterci/DSC00877Medium.jpg

The electric converter wire:

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c47/Kevsterci/DSC00876Medium.jpg

And the electrics viable in the engine bay:

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c47/Kevsterci/DSC00878Medium.jpg

If I can be of any help please ask...

Kev.

[mossy1.9tdi]

Im sure the swan neck will be robust enough to pull trailers you would tow behind a golf. Im sure it would be able to tow small trailer such as motorbike trailer but i wouldnt advise to go towing an 18ft trailer around.

But im glad this thread has opened iv often wondered about gettin a towbar.

[Kevster140]

Im sure the swan neck will be robust enough to pull trailers you would tow behind a golf. Im sure it would be able to tow small trailer such as motorbike trailer but i wouldn't advise to go towing an 18ft trailer around.

But im glad this thread has opened iv often wondered about gettin a towbar.

If VW supplied and fitted a tow bar which is not capable of towing the weights quoted in the handbook for the car it is fitted to I would find it very surprising, very worrying and very dangerous.

However a loaded 18ft trailer does should over that for a golf regardless of the tow bar type.

Obviously if anyone is worried in the slightest about a tow bar of what ever design and type it should have a rating which should be checked that it is suitable for the load to be pulled.

[saabman]

I just fitted a tow bar to my mkv went in in a couple of hours, but made my own lighting adaptor similar to a realy box but all solid state. The worst part of the install was running the main power cable from the battery to rear of the vehicle. but now its doneand works great. Cost me about $100 Aus for the parts which is much better than the $600 Aus VW wanted.
If any one wants a copy of the circuit Ill convert it to a PDF and post it.

Bernie

[rainsensor]

I finally (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showpost.php?p=48324&postcount=15) got the detachable towbar for my Golf MkV that I was looking for. I went for the original Bosal from the VW catalogue (http://www.volkswagen-accessories.ie/towbar_detachable2), which seems to be very similar to the Westfalia (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showpost.php?p=62762&postcount=35) used by Ben and others.

I wasn't brave enough to fit it myself, so I had a lad called Michael Higgins (http://www.yell.com/listings/DoFindListings/5701743/C-and-B-Glazing/Windscreens) in Northern Ireland do it for me. He does all the towbar work for the Newry VW branch (http://www.volkswagen.co.uk/retailers/908/contact), through which he ordered the parts. He did a very tidy job, which cost a total of £415; Some €500 less than I was quoted by VW in the Republic of Ireland!

I took some photos of the towbar during the fitting process (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rosscads/tags/vw%2Ctowbar%2Cfitting/), for those who are interested (selection below).

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2440/3624240265_9fb8ab7f9b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3311/3625056174_30aa8908b4.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3602/3625055836_1ba96e4225.jpg

[Kevster140]

I finally (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showpost.php?p=48324&postcount=15) got the detachable towbar for my Golf MkV that I was looking for. I went for the original Bosal from the VW catalogue (http://www.volkswagen-accessories.ie/towbar_detachable2), which seems to be very similar to the Westfalia (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showpost.php?p=62762&postcount=35) used by Ben and others.


Hi, and thanks. The Bosal one looks nice and as you say is very a like to the Westfaila. The link to the Irish assessories online shows a picture of what looks like (to me) like a Westfalia? In the text is says make: Oris. How odd.

The Westfalia Ben fitted has uk electrics that plug in to the cluster(s) unlike the VW sourced Westfalia my dad had has the new european single 13pin electrics (this is the norm now on all new caravans) and needs a uk converter.
However I think the dealer could have ordered the uk single socket if dad didn't want the additianol 12S electrics. Obviously two uk sockets wouldn't fit.

It would appear that the Bosal from VW you sourced is single pin non european socket and that you've plugged it in to both clusters without routing from the engine bay/fuse box (can't quite see from piccy)?

Strange how VWs supply vary.

[Ben]

i wondered if you could fit an electrical socket either side of the swan neck.

it looks tight but, if someone wanted it that badly the i bet they could squeeze it in.

Thanks for all your comments.:biggthump

[Ben]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2430/3624241013_9a1848bbca.jpg?v=0

why go through the vent? there is a large circuler rubber grommet available there. Nevertheless, it works.

[saabman]

Damn, I new there had to be a gromet there somewhere :( I ended up drilling a hole in the floor of the boot and putting my own grommet in ;)

[peter cresswell]

I have fitted a SAAR / Westfalia swan neck towbar.

Rating was 1500kg and 75kg max ball weight

It involved only shaving of the bumper amd looked quite neat.

BUT

It also looked flimsy and was badly finished, the main girder weighs a lot and was consequently difficult for an old man to lift!!

The poor design that I suspected mainfested its self on the second outing when I backed into a waste bin caousing not even a scratch to mytrailer -but bending the tow ball swan neck drop links like a piece of plastic exactly where it looked so weak. I have had it straightened and properly reinforced by a local agricultural engineer and I dont believe it will ever bend again.

I have fitted over 50 tow bars to cars over the years and have biffed and bashed them, been rear ended and towed at speed and NEVER seen even as much as a crack in the paint from witter or maufacturers bars. If you buy one of these SAAR bars you8 will beed to strip and paint it and it will still rust!! It WILL need re inforcement as well. If it bends again its will be out!!!!!

I wouldnt condemn it out of hand, but add at least 50 quid to the price for the changes or be prepared for it to bend - if you tow a caravan.

Shout if you would like to hear more

PS I have a 13 pin electrics plug and think its wonderful. I less bit of junk on the car and a proper locking mechanism. Dont shy away from them as a simple cheap adapter is all you need to connect

Golf electrics are easy DIY checkout Rydertwoing on the web

Pete

[saabman]

Yes they are nice but for some reason those type of interfaces cost around $300 in Australia. So I gave up trying to find one and built my own :)

[j3ggo]

what sort of a towbar is this? seems a bit daft with the bumper cutout then a hand done cutout as well??? 6248

[richard@thebrae]

Hi, and thanks. The Bosal one looks nice and as you say is very a like to the Westfaila. The link to the Irish assessories online shows a picture of what looks like (to me) like a Westfalia? In the text is says make: Oris. How odd.

The Westfalia Ben fitted has uk electrics that plug in to the cluster(s) unlike the VW sourced Westfalia my dad had has the new european single 13pin electrics (this is the norm now on all new caravans) and needs a uk converter.
However I think the dealer could have ordered the uk single socket if dad didn't want the additianol 12S electrics. Obviously two uk sockets wouldn't fit.

It would appear that the Bosal from VW you sourced is single pin non european socket and that you've plugged it in to both clusters without routing from the engine bay/fuse box (can't quite see from piccy)?

Strange how VWs supply vary.
You say that Ben fitted electrics that pick up the supply from the clusters, do you have details of this so I can source them, please I fitted a westfalia towbar today, but will hold off on the electrics untill i find out about the cluster connection type.
Thanks to Peter Creswell and the chap who posted the measurements for the parking sensors, not forgetting golfmkvgtdi who supplied so much usefull information on this matter

[Ben]

Richard.

You need a multiplex bypass relay. The exact instructions are in the research thread which is link to from the how to guide.

It is all colour coded, 2 wires for indicators, 1 for brake, 1 for fog, 2 for side lights 1 for reverse (if it is a 12n plug) (the 12s doesn't have reverse) These are 7 pin electrics.

The 12v live is from the positive supplying the power socket in the boot. there is also an earth somewhere.

You may wish to future proof and get th new euro 13pin electrics.

[j3ggo]

Richard, I agree with Ben, get a 13 pin socket, I have fitted one, its much neater and sturdy with a waterproof washer to stop muck getting into the connectors. You will also need a split charge relay. Scott.

[j3ggo]

Peter, mine is a SIARR (Society Internation Automobile Renault), I fitted it myself. I think the design is great, there is no bumper cut and it is really rigid and the paint is e-coat so should easily pass 1000 salt spray hours test. I tow a caravan and not noticed any problems, if it were so weak as you think it is it would not have passed the safety tests? That makes me think being an automotive engineer, who conducts all the tests for towbars? what is the spec for towbars? all I know they have to pass vertical load and pull type tests? There may be room for a business venture here??

[j3ggo]

Kev, looks really neat, I like the VW socket. You can get a single piece adaptor off eBay if you don't want a wired unit.

[zub-gti]

Excellent thread fella's,

Does anyone know if you can get a rear valance in GTi style c/w the cut out as per the ones shown in this thread ?

Thanks,

Z

[richard@thebrae]

Ok job done many thanks for all the guidance and help from this thead.
Tow bar and electrics same as Bens, now looking for the storage moulding that is evident in the westfalia fitting instructions on page 9, caption 9.
Tried VW, bu although the parts guy tried very hard no joy so far.
Sent email to westfalia but no reply as yet.
Has anyone found/sourced this part ? and if so can you provide the part no and source.
It is available as ebay (america) has pics of the tools set complete.
copy attached

[richard@thebrae]

Does anyone know if you can get a rear valance in GTi style c/w the cut out as per the ones shown in this thread ?

Thanks,

Z
Got this of another forum :-


Excellent The VW GTI rear spoiler for towbar is: V1K6 807 433 B9 B9 - about £45 + vat thread fella's,
Hi Check it out, (Jayro wd 6050 forum)

[Ben]

Ok job done many thanks for all the guidance and help from this thead.
Tow bar and electrics same as Bens, now looking for the storage moulding that is evident in the westfalia fitting instructions on page 9, caption 9.
Tried VW, bu although the parts guy tried very hard no joy so far.
Sent email to westfalia but no reply as yet.
Has anyone found/sourced this part ? and if so can you provide the part no and source.
It is available as ebay (america) has pics of the tools set complete.
copy attached


You mean the polystyrene tool box thing that fits withing the upturned spare wheel?

I did not have to but one of these, the cut out for the removable tow ball is already designed in the existing jack moulding.

can you supply a photo of what you have and i'll do the same to compare.

[Ben]

here is mine

you can clearly see the tow ball unit and the red circular item is the key for the lock on the towball. there was even a hole provided for the key.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/250720091140.jpg

[richard@thebrae]

Hi I have attached 3 pic.:- If yours accepts the ball unit can you pass me the part No and a pic. Thanks Richard
1 My unit
2 copy from installation Guide
3 pic from USA Ebay member

[richard@thebrae]

HI Ben yours is exactly what I need does it have a part No stamped on it, please copy it to me as the VW guys could not find it in Ekta, and their central stores did not even recognise what we were asking for, a real numptie.

[Ben]

i'll have a look tomorrow.

I really don't understand why they should change the design??

my MK5 is one of the very 1st ones, so early its registered in Feb 2004 so its a 53 reg.

[zub-gti]

Ok job done many thanks for all the guidance and help from this thead.
Tow bar and electrics same as Bens, now looking for the storage moulding that is evident in the westfalia fitting instructions on page 9, caption 9.
Tried VW, bu although the parts guy tried very hard no joy so far.
Sent email to westfalia but no reply as yet.
Has anyone found/sourced this part ? and if so can you provide the part no and source.
It is available as ebay (america) has pics of the tools set complete.
copy attached


This must be standard on the GTi as I went and checked and its already there, I'm in Aberdeen not too far from you, so i'm assuming you'll be able to get this from a dealer,

Once i get ELSA up and running i'll find you the P/N

Z

[martin1810]

Richard.....The part number may be 1J0 863 470A. Perhaps you can quote that to VW and see what they say. The part is called a "tool box". The normal golf one is 8P0 012 109F. Goodluck

[Ben]

Richard,

apologies for not posting the answer on sunday, i was watching the GP and the Moto Gp and the inlaws came round.

My part number for my jack storage as pictured earlier is

8P0 012 109 and under it there are the letters GFX

[richard@thebrae]

Many Thanks Ben, did the same on sunday (was working but tv in car) This thread has really helped me a lot, found a couple of things to make it a wee bit easier on the reverse light/ fog light connections, and to get at the 12v power supply.
But in the whole followed you to the letter and it went really well.
Best Regards Richard

[j3ggo]

Richard,

Whats did you do to make it easier to connect the reverse lights? mine is not connected. I think the only was to go into the tailgate? Scott.

[richard@thebrae]

Richard,

Whats did you do to make it easier to connect the reverse lights? mine is not connected. I think the only was to go into the tailgate? Scott.

The wiring loom from the nearside clusters joins up with the main loom from the front of the car along the nearside. This join is above the wheel arch. To get at it was easy.
Fold the rear seat back down, you will see a small removable panel near the seat belt exit. It removes from the back end very easy.

Once removed you will see two torx screws inside (remove them)
At the rear of the car internally just above the nearside cluster access you will see another torx screw (remove this) the plastic trim (that supports the rear parcel shelf) can be fairly easily wiggled out completly(it has two trim fasteners that have to eased out gently), fold back the side trim and the main wiring harness is fully exposed.

In ElsaWin the reverse wire is gr/ws (grey/white) and the junction id is T5a/3 (confirmed on my 59 golf mk5) it is up inside the airbag panels so you want the gr/ws wire before the junction. (after the junction, the reverse wire is white)
Just be very carefull to open up the harness without nipping the other wires. scotchloc into it and you have your signal for reverse.
I used it to trigger the power to my parking sensors which I fitted at the same time.
If you want the diags, PM me and email adress and I will forward them to you. (getting into the offside is just the same)

[Ben]

i cursed and swore when feeding the wire up that rubber tube from body to tailgate.:(

it took ages

[VdubDownthePub]

Great thread,I'm in Perth Australia and have an 07 GTTDI. I was quoted approx $1800 fitted from VW! Now, thanks to you I have a TEB7AS bypass relay from P.F. Jones 32 quid delivered as opposed to VW $500 or thereabouts.. The bar is a problem, nobody in Europe will deliver to Australia, I think because of the Australian design rules, i.e. it's illegal to fit anything but an approved bar. I really would pay the freight to get a westfalia or witter hidden bar! I'll have to investigate the local options.
One question... I believe the Golf V has a single filament stop/tail lamp, should I take the signal for the tail lamps from the number plate light and the brakes from the tailgate eye level stop light?

Great site, thanks

Mark Perth WA

[martin1810]

Check your bypass relay instructions. I think it can cope with the duel feed stop/tail if my memory isn't playing me up. Strange no-one wants to send you a towbar. European ones have to have type approval as well.

[richard@thebrae]

-i VW bar part no.1KO- 092 155 A is £236 and a wesfalia is circa £180 in the UK (both not fitted) so I would price it up at the dealers, you will also need the replacement rear bumper skirt with the little door in it £ 50 here. (remember to get the GTI one )
The dealer supplied one will be made by westflia or Oris both equally as good.
It would be best to wire your bypass relay as ben did it and I followed him.
2 x indicators, 2x sidelights one by brake light and the reverse and fog if you need it.
IF you need wiring diags just PM me an email and I will send them to you

[j3ggo]

what sort of a towbar is this? seems a bit daft with the bumper cutout then a hand done cutout as well??? 6248
This is the most ridiculous setup I have seen, has anyone else seen one like this?

[Kevster140]

This is the most ridiculous setup I have seen, has anyone else seen one like this?


Why on earth! looks like the VW bumper but non VW swan neck fitted high up. must be mad.

[mdbs]

Hi, I only joined this forum a week or so ago just to get some info on how to do the wiring on my Golf Plus. No luck though.

As it was its easy to do using the by pass relay. As the car will not send a signal to the real lights if you disconect them I attached some "tails" to the existing wires just short of the plug that goes into the rear lights. PLAN where you are going to put things and make the tails long enough to do the job.

Once done re fit the rear lights and using a multimeter find which wires do what. Dont expect 12volts everywhere, just some signal will do.

Make careful note of the wires that do their respective jobs, ie brakes, signal, rear lights. Only one feed for brakes and side lights is needed.

Using the wiring diagram from the relay attach your tails, the near side tails will need to be long enough to reach the off side, (I put mine there because of the closeness of the 12v power) take a feed and earth from the boot 12v power outlet, connect the wires from the tow bar. Job Done. Well almost, you will need to tidy the wires, make sure they are not in the way etc etc...

I fitted a Witter bar, and I was very disapointed, there was weld inside one of the captive nuts, which I had to drill out and re tap, and the bolts that go into the side rails were too short, not by much but just enough to make the job take longer.. Once Witter was a name you could trust.

[max547]

Hi all,

excellent thread but I'm going cross-eyed from the wealth of information available!

I have recently bought a 2008 1.9 TDi Golf Estate which I'd like to fit a towbar to. This is just going to be trailering sh*te to the tip, so nothing too heavy. I have a bar on my old X Reg golf estate but suspect that won't be much good to me(?).

Can anyone suggest a towbar I can order and fit myself that isn't going to break the bank but is also not going to require any cutting?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

Max

[mdbs]

I got bored reading about how many bars dont need the bumper cutting and remain a sensible price, as far as I can see, its not many, if any at all. As the lower panel is availabe from VW for sensible money I dont see it as an issue, especially as I will leave the towbar on when I sell anyway.

I like the towbar even when not towing s it keeps the idiots at Tesco etc from hitting my bumper.

Cutting the bumper is very easy, I used a small grinder, 4 inch diameter, and a very thin metal cutting blade. Very easy,very tidy.

If you dont have a grinder you can buy a cheap one for less than £20.00.

[j3ggo]

not sure about the estate, the only non cut towbar for a hatch is the siarr. try towbarsdirect.co.uk. let us know how you get on.

[chris2303]

Hi all
i am currently about to get a tow bar fitted to my mk5 1.4 gt and want a detachable system fitted hidden as much as possible there is so much on this thread i am unsure which model to buy i am hesitant to let someone cut my bumper and make a mess of it
i have seen the extra valance you can by from vw however i have had quotes from tow bar companies that supply a cover with the boson after they cut it does anyone have a pic of these

[yottie]

Have just had a very neat tow-bar fitted by Indespension, cost £180.
VW wanted £320, local garage £230. As you can see there is no extra space taken up underneath and the small hole in the bumper is almost invisible.

[markuk767]

Hi All

Great thread. I think the VW supplied replacement lower bumper and detachable Witter/Westfalia way to go, the removeable panel is almost invisible.

Think with all the posts on wiring electrics it would be best to go for a car specific wiring kit for 7pin socket only? I mean who requires 13 pin, ie: who's lugging a caravan behind a Golf anyway? ;o)

Its a shame nobody has designed a towbar that is hidden by the number plate when not in use!!!

Thanks, Mark

Golf V TDI
4 motion

[PFJones]

Hi all
i am currently about to get a tow bar fitted to my mk5 1.4 gt and want a detachable system fitted hidden as much as possible there is so much on this thread i am unsure which model to buy i am hesitant to let someone cut my bumper and make a mess of it
i have seen the extra valance you can by from vw however i have had quotes from tow bar companies that supply a cover with the boson after they cut it does anyone have a pic of these

Hi there,

P F Jones Ltd offer unbeatable prices on the Original Equipment Westfalia detachable towbar (http://www.pfjones.co.uk) for your vehicle from any one of their national towbar fitting (http://www.pfjones.co.uk) locations.

They can supply and paint the flap you mentioned and it will look just the same as your vehicle without the towbar.

Any further information please call Brian on 0800 5200 478, he will be more than happy to help and may have an image for you!

[yottie]

I can't understand the obsession to hide a tow-bar, mine is on a TDi and it looks great, it's for a boat and also keeps people away from my back-end !!

[saabman]

KNow what you mean Yottie, mine just sticks straight out through the bumper and the wiring socket is right next to it - all nice and secure and no bits to lose. ;)

[RichardWH]

I purchased a new lower section for the rear bumper (about £55 I think) with blanking plate. I had a removeable Witter fitted. All the mounting and electric connection are hidden by the blanking plate. It is almost invisible on the black lower half of the rear bumper. For the perfectionist you could always have a new lower-half bumper and blanking plate colour coded. Perfect solution

[nc35]

Hi All

Interesting post, lots of useful info...

I have a Witter VW49 tow bar with the flange type ball.(Not yet fitted). I am wondering what this will look like fitted?

Well what I really need to know is with the flange removed (un bolted) and the OEM GTI Lower skirt with the flap/tidy is the tow bar bracket & electrics hidden?


Sorry really bad description, I just want to hide the tow bar when it is not in use, and I don't really want a removable job.

Cheers

Lee

[arkay]

This is a brilliant thread for anybody thinking of a towbar for the Golf! Well done to the original poster for starting things off.
Now more to the point does anybody know if the details of this post apply to the Golf Mark 6? i.e. is the chassis the same? Hope it is! It will make things easier for me when I come to get a towbar fitted to my future Golf.
If it is not the same I suppose we'll have to start a new thread on the Mk 6 forum.

[richard@thebrae]

The Mk V towbar fits the Mk 6 states the fitting instructions ,that came with my Westfalia detachable towbar which I fitted to my Golf MK V in the summer past.
Only differance was the slight easing of the replacement lower bumber for to give clearance to the socket for the detachable bit.(on the backside of the bumber) which has to be done before you fit it.
This is to trim off 2mm at the central point of the moulding on the MKV, and at a slightly different bit either side of centre for the MK 6.
The full electrics is the same also.

[nc35]

Richard.

You need a multiplex bypass relay. The exact instructions are in the research thread which is link to from the how to guide.



Hi Richard

Can you please post a link for us less able :o

Cheers

Lee

[richard@thebrae]

Link for multiple bypass relay:- http://www.towingelectrics.com/relays_bypass.php

If you need help to get at the wiring just ask.
The reversing wire is easy to get at over the rear nearside wheel arch, howto is posted on hear,If you do need diags , PM me with an email adress that will accept attachements. Good Luck

[nc35]

Link for multiple bypass relay:- http://www.towingelectrics.com/relays_bypass.php

If you need help to get at the wiring just ask.
The reversing wire is easy to get at over the rear nearside wheel arch, howto is posted on hear,If you do need diags , PM me with an email adress that will accept attachements. Good Luck

Just found out the hard way that I can PM - not enough posts :zx11:

Well can anyone please help????

Spent all afternoon wiring up a Ryder Smart7 Relay.

Haynes manual and a lot of reading on the forums I think the following is correct:

Rear LH as you look at the car from the back:

Indicator - BLACK/WHITE
Tail - GREY/BLACK
Brake & Tail - BLACK/RED

Rear RH

Indicator - BLACK/GREEN
Tail - BLACK/PURPLE
Brake & Tail - GREY/GREEN

Reverse - BLACK/BLUE

Got everyting Scotch Locked and the cable from the towing bracket wired in the other end of the relay, earthed and live feed too.

The reverse from the relay is switching a reversing camera.

Well the reversing camera works, so I have done something right.

The relay clicks for everything, Lights, Brakes, Indicators, reverse and Hazzard Lights.

But nothing on the trailer or a tow board?????

Anyone any idea what I have done wrong?

Going to borrow a multimeter tomorrow. Will this be of any use detecting a current from the relay?

Thank you all again

Lee

[Ben]

yes, the multimeter is a godsend when wiring a relay, i used one when triple checking all the wires.

[j3ggo]

multimeter 4.99 from maplin. worth every penny

[PFJones]

make sure that the white wire from the towbar wire is going to earth and is a good on any bad earths will throw a spanner in the works also check the 12v in a good one and not a time managed one:Blush:

[skard]

hi everyone

this thread makes for very informative reading.
i was wondering if anyone can shed some light on a problem i had with my golf mk5?

when i purchased the car it had a witter towbar fitted (no idea how long it had been on for). after a few months of ownership (out of dealer and trader warranty), my engine ECU basically packed in and the car wouldn't start, resulting in a very expensive replacement.

i immediately disconnected the 7 wire relay that had been scotchlocked into the rear light cluster.

as obscure as it may sound, is there any logic in my belief that this way of connecting the electrics has damaged the engine ECU? my other car (206 HDi) uses the CAN-VAN multiplexing system so i know all too well how fragile these systems can be, especially when sending voltage pulses down a cable when it may be expecting a data pulse.
however, i am not sure that the golf light cluster is part of the multiplexed network?

my bro in law has a multiplexed astra van with a towbar using a similar relay box, and he recently had a failed ECU.

i would just like to hear what others may think about this as i really hope it doesn't reoccur and would like to pinpoint the causes of the failed ECU.

by the way, the towbar and rear valance with cutout has been removed as has the electrics box so testing it now isn't possible.

many thanks and happy new year,
Davie

[martin1810]

The reason for using a bypass relay, is it bypasses the can-bus system. Power comes from the 12V feed that has been added, so not part of the existing wiring. Connections to lights are only to trigger electronic relays. Current draw is so small the car circuits are not affected. So basically if this type of wiring is installed correctly you cannot harm the can-bus wires or ecu etc. ECU's becomming faulty are fairly rare. Most ecu faults turn out to be bad connections.

[richard@thebrae]

Martin1880 is correct with his reply, the golf lights are on the canbus for bulb failure, and you can take comfort that thousands of bypass relays correctly fitted to vehicles with canbus systems do not give any canbus problems or affect the car management systems.

[skard]

thanks guys, i always thought it was a long shot that the towbar install was at fault. i guess it would have been nice to pinpoint the reason why the ECU packed in as VW offered no insight.

on that note, i have the towbar but no detachable ball (i believe it is witter part ZQ3003 i need) - other than the manufacturer is there anywhere i can get a used one?

thanks

[richard@thebrae]

thanks guys, i always thought it was a long shot that the towbar install was at fault. i guess it would have been nice to pinpoint the reason why the ECU packed in as VW offered no insight.

on that note, i have the towbar but no detachable ball (i believe it is witter part ZQ3003 i need) - other than the manufacturer is there anywhere i can get a used one?

thanks
Breakers Yard if you are lucky, or put an add in the relevant section of the forum.

[stirlin]

Just for peoples interest i have a:

Detachable westfaila towbar i took of my mk 5 golf,
everything is included, mounting bar, detachable ball, electrics and i could supply the bumper with the hole cut out (genuine vw)

Ely/Cambridge Area £175

07919378937

Thanks

[markuk767]

Excellent thread which I have just used to fit a Westfalia detachable towbar to my Golf V TDI 4 Motion (2006) recommend any one to read whole thread (including links on page 4 from Ben).

I have included some pictures as they may be of interest to anyone considering fitting GTI lower valance with towbar cut-out to their standard Golf!

Got the new bumper painted, cost £150, was more costly 'cos had the textured bumper filled so that paint would be shiny like car, was well worth the extra!

There were a few differences with removing bumper, for example there is a torx screw inside the each wheel arch edge fixing the top half of the plastic bumper to the metal bodywork and its a buggar to get undone!

Installed PCT relay, which was easy enough. All kit supplied by Towbars Direct, which were the cheapest I found at this time.

Happy to provide more photos of installation or details of electrical connections for 7-pin socket (12N), although did not connect reversing light or fog light at this time.

Hope it helps.:D

Cheers, Mark

[stuupnorth]

Hiya guys
Can anyone help me!!
just fitted a detachable towbar along a wiring kit from 'towquipe'
fitting the towbar no prob's
but the wiring that a diiferant story LOL!!
it's a Specific Wiring Volkswagen Golf V
but now the drivers rear light doesn't work and the indicator on the passenger side doesn't work all the wiring has been checked and all seem ok
any ideas???
cheers
Stu

[martin1810]

Would be a good idea to give more details of what kit you have and what wires are connected.

[fras83]

Hey, I've just read through this topic as im looking into getting a towbar for my mkv gttdi golf and its been very helpful! I think I've decided on the westfalia detachable towbar with single electrics and bypass relay (using the 12v supply in the boot). Just wondering if anyone has any pictures of the wiring in the car with the bypass relay fitted?
Cheers.

[markuk767]

Hi Fras83

Here are some pics! Fitted relay to right side of car, using 12V outlet in boot and earthing point in same space.

You will need to remove right-hand parcel shelve ledge, 2 x torx screws and a bit of grunt to pull it off (note inner torx screw is behind small cover panel and is easy to loose down the wheel arch trim, so suggest pack space with cloth to catch it!), disconnect boot light + 12V socket.

The relay uses sensor wires to detect activation of each light on the vehicle, its fairly easy to identify correct wires using multimeter and activating each item, to connect. I used the supplied 'scotch-loks' to make connection close to the right-hand light connector.

The 7-Pin socket wires are simple to connect. You will also require 12V (from 12V socket) and earth, which is located conveniently in the space behind boot panel.

I didn't connect fog or reversing light at this point, but I'm sure the supply to these items (the fog light in particular) are coming from the right side loom (ie: no need to run wire into tailgate!)

Hope it helps, Mark ;o)

[richard@thebrae]

Further to Marks post, the reverse light wire comes down the passenger side of the car and can be picked up just forward of the wheel arch which is accessed in the same way.
It is blue and black from memory, but please check this (in a previous post in this thread which has all the correct detail) and it changes to white at this point (a harness joint) and heads up to the tailgate wiring loom which is not so easy access and so makes this the best point to pick it up.

[fras83]

Thanks very much guys, much appreciated. Should hopefully help a bit! Yeh not too sure whether im going to connect the reverse light and fog but if I do I'll be trying to avoid routing wires into the tail gate!
Towbar and bypass relay kit ordered last night from P F Jones through ebay. Going to order bumper tomorrow hopefully. So should be able to have a go at it at the weekend!

[markuk767]

Fras83,

Just a thought - if you're buying new lower valance consider getting the GTI version, it looks much better than the original 'plain' type and its the same price! It fits just the same, but you will have to consider fitting new twin tailpipe (try Halfords) or replacement rear box, which can be got off eBay and makes the standard golf look great!

;o)

[fras83]

Fitted my towbar last night. Had wired up most bits the night before so it was just a case of bumper off, fit towbar, run cable up to relay and connect and refit new bumper with insert fitted. Job done. Was all made a lot easier thanks to this forum though! Really helps when you know what your looking for, where things are etc before you start. So a big thanks to everyone on here!:beerchug:

For those interested I fitted a Westfalia dectachable towbar and TEB7AS
bypass relay to my 2006 MK5 golf GTTDI.

[christt777]

Great thread!

I'm planning to fit a Westfalia detachable tow bar on my 2005 mk5, but I'm going for the "Golf V Kit B All Models 13 Pin Dedicated Wiring Kit Sept 2003 >"from PF Jones.

Have anyone of you tried to wire up this kit?

[Brit Rider]

Hey Guys,

Rather interestingly I called my Local VW dealer today (Crewe Volkswagen) and was told the rear valance (just lower section and cover) are 2 seperate parts and I was quoted around £80.00

Has there been a price hike or was i ripped off? I pressed hard for extra discount and said I knew the part should only be £45 but he wouldn't budge an inch....

Mike

[markuk767]

Hi Mike

I recently purchased (early May 2010) the tow-hitch compatible rear valance for 2006 Golf from VW dealer in Taunton, it cost £60 (inc VAT) and is 1 part! It came packaged as complete unit consisting of bumper + cover plate.

Your dealer may be adding the cover plate as a separate part, they may not realise the tow-hitch compatible valance comes with the cover plate?

I'm guessing if you had to replace the cover plate (ie: got stolen or fell off?) it probably would cost around £15-20, which would make £80ish?

Suggest you clarify with your dealer what they are ordering?

FYI: The tow-hitch compatible rear valance doesn't come with the little cover plate for the towing hook, you just swap that over from your original bumper!

Hope that hepls, Mark

---------------------------
Golf GT-TDI 4-Motion (2006)
)

[Brit Rider]

Hi Mark,

That certainly could make sense... thanks for highlighting it.

I'll leave my order as it is now and when I go to pick up I'll inspect whats there and just take what I need. Hopefully this will be 1 not 2 parts!! Glad to mentioned tis though as I may well have walked off with more than I needed and £20 poorer otherwise!

Here's another one, has anyone worked out a way to disarm their OEM parking sensors when the trailers hooked up?

Come install time I'll photograph the process of the install to add to the archive here... It's been a cracking resource thus far!

Mike

[Brit Rider]

Hey guys,

Just to let you know I installed the Westfalia detachable bar and a smart relay from towbars direct last night.

Took 3-4 hours total and was very straight forward.

Nothing compicated about the install but I'll add a few pointers!

1. Do not try and test the lights for signal with a multimeter when they are unplugged... the CAN bus system gets clever and turns them off! had me puzzled for a good 5 mins! Just poke your probe into the back of the connector when its on.
2. Do not attempt this without a multimeter... Mine was invaluable
3. some panels have far more torq bolts holding them in than you'd expect... i found myself trying to prematurely yank off a few panels without checking fully for more bolts. if it doesn't come off smoothly then its likely still attached!
4. seperating the lower spoiler from the bumper was tricky. It requiresa bit of fettling. make sure you have a large clean dust sheet to hand to lay the bumper out on to ensure you dont scratch it before hand.
5. start with a clean car... the car I was working on had quite a lot of grime up in the wheel arches so finding bolts became more tricky. if I'd have cleaned the cars arches first it would have been easier... getting dust off the rear bumper also helps against scratching it when you're wrestling it apart to fit the new one.

I cannot recommend Towbars Direct enough: Absolutely brilliant service and great advice. When calling to order they knew the car well, knew which bars would work and recommended the westfalia. Quality of the bar is top notch and the quick release/mount system is awesome... no mess or fuss just locks into place when you offer it up and drops out with the twist of a knob.

This has been a brill resource! Hope my few notes help others. If anyone wants wiring diagrams or to know what does what just drop me a PM... I'd be glad to help.

Cheers Guys!

Mike

[Mini Mark]

Hi guys a quick question for you does the towinf hitch compatable rear valeance come in the tandard black finish?

[Brit Rider]

Yup, all identical in colour and style to the bits you take off.

[Mini Mark]

Thats good my old MK5 TDI had a towbar on so we brought a bike rack to go on there and our new one doesn't so we need one and I don't want iot on there all the time

[ConnorJohn]

I need to know if a Mk5 Golf (car version) towbar will fit a Golf Mk6 Estate, have been told that the chassis is the same. Any help much appreciated.:1zhelp:

[Mini Mark]

I've read so many posts on here now I'm number blind could someone tell me what the part number is for the lower (black) section of the rear bumper with the cover peice to fill the hole when the tow bar isn't on is please:confused:

[VdubDownthePub]

Hi all,

I'm just about to fit a towbar to my 07 Golf GTTDI down here in Australia, I have a TEB7AS and my question is can the TEB7AS detect the difference between stop and tail signals on the combined canbus circuit? The fitting guide shows connections to offside tail, nearside tail and brake....Wouln't brake be on the same cable as either offside/nearside tail?
I'm thinking of playing safe and using numberplate light for tail and tailgate brake light for brake. Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance

[richard@thebrae]

Hi all,

I'm just about to fit a towbar to my 07 Golf GTTDI down here in Australia, I have a TEB7AS and my question is can the TEB7AS detect the difference between stop and tail signals on the combined canbus circuit? The fitting guide shows connections to offside tail, nearside tail and brake....Wouln't brake be on the same cable as either offside/nearside tail?
I'm thinking of playing safe and using numberplate light for tail and tailgate brake light for brake. Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance
This bypass relay only senses the signal on the relevant supply lead, that is the stop signal on the stop signal supply line (common for left and right) and the tail light signal on the tail light supply, (left and right supplies being seperate.)
All the TEB7AS does is sense the signal and electronically draws the current needed from the independant (rear power socket in boot) 12volt supply for the appropriate action thus avoiding the canbus sensing additional load or alteration to the normal circuit.
I have fitted several of them as per the attached circuit diag and they work faultlessly.
The reverse and fog line pick up point is best above the wheel rear wheel arch, ask if you want diags via PM

[VdubDownthePub]

Thanks Richard,

so, according to the diagram, as the Golf has common stop/tail feeds there is no need to connect the individual tail feeds, only the single brake feed.....The TEB7AS does the rest.
That certainly simplifies things.

Cheers - Mark

[richard@thebrae]

No, With Referance to only the pick up side:- the stop signal is common.The tai lights are individual ie. left and right.
Here is the wiring diagram for the rear lighting clusters.
If you want to pick up the reverse siganal and the fog signal the best place is over the rear wheel arch.
Note left hand drive models (the diag covers left and right)
If you wire the output side of the relay as per the relay diag you will be correct and legal.
If you cannot expand the diag enough send me an email address by PM and I will send you the file.

[martin1810]

Hi all,

I'm just about to fit a towbar to my 07 Golf GTTDI down here in Australia, I have a TEB7AS and my question is can the TEB7AS detect the difference between stop and tail signals on the combined canbus circuit? The fitting guide shows connections to offside tail, nearside tail and brake....Wouln't brake be on the same cable as either offside/nearside tail?
I'm thinking of playing safe and using numberplate light for tail and tailgate brake light for brake. Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance

When you have dual lights and single feed you are better off using a smart bypass relay like this.
TF2218/7SmartLOGIC Bypass
This type of relay will sense the voltage lines and put rear lights on and then brakes when the voltage changes because of the foot brake.

[VdubDownthePub]

Job done...
Many thanks to Ben, Richard@thebrae and everyone else who has contributed.
I used an Aussie Hayman Reece bar which with the tongue removed (2 bolts) is almost invisible :) The TEB7AS works faultlessly with the canbus, simplified because we don't need reverse or fog lights downunder. Biggest problem was removing the trim on the inside rear boot space, sadly cracked the plastic but hey, what's a bit of araldite between friends? Overall I reckon I saved around $1000 Aussie on the VW price, and if you've seen the VW Australia solution you'll agree it's well worth it!!!

Cheers - Mark

[polo2002]

I have recently fitted the Westfalia detatchable towbar to my car and wired up the bypass relay as sugested and everything works fine, even the rear fog! ;)

Nobody has mentioned the fact that the 12v socket in the boot is ignition feed which means at night when you switch off, all the trailer lights go off. :Blush:

Has anyone found a good way of putting 12v battery feed into the boot without stripping the entire car? :(

My trailer has internal lights powered by the side lights and I'm not keen on leaving the keys in whilst unloading!

Your help is much appreciated.

[martin1810]

You can either change the feed for the 12v socket to make it live always, or run a new cable from either fuse box. You don't need to disturb much trim with a new cable. You just tuck it under the door sill/side trims.

[dorsetgolf]

Hi


I recently had a detachable tow bar fitted to my 2009 Golf VI 1.6 TDI 105 SE by my local VW dealer (It cost more than the wife’s Fiesta is worth!). I had requested a “new insert “for the spare wheel - i.e. which is designed to store the detachable tow bar when not in use.


Unfortunately the one they ordered was too deep and would not fit the space saver spare wheel that is standard on my Golf. The dealer seemed unable to find another suitable part however I have seen a picture earlier on this thread that seems to show to suitable insert with part number 8P0 012 109 and under it there are the letters GFX (The detachable tow bar is located along side the jack as opposed to underneath as in the one ordered by the dealer)


Has anybody managed to find one to fit the space saver wheel on the Golf VI?


Thanks

[Ben]

Hi


I recently had a detachable tow bar fitted to my 2009 Golf VI 1.6 TDI 105 SE by my local VW dealer (It cost more than the wife’s Fiesta is worth!). I had requested a “new insert “for the spare wheel - i.e. which is designed to store the detachable tow bar when not in use.


Unfortunately the one they ordered was too deep and would not fit the space saver spare wheel that is standard on my Golf. The dealer seemed unable to find another suitable part however I have seen a picture earlier on this thread that seems to show to suitable insert with part number 8P0 012 109 and under it there are the letters GFX (The detachable tow bar is located along side the jack as opposed to underneath as in the one ordered by the dealer)


Has anybody managed to find one to fit the space saver wheel on the Golf VI?


Thanks
print off all the information that you need and take it to them.
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/2004-MK5-Volkswagen-Golf-Toolkit-/260726934751?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item3cb4894cdf

[richard@thebrae]

Hi I did like you with my MK V and with lots of research and frustrations found out there is no insert for the space saver wheel as supplied.
The part you saw is for normal wheel.
The part is cheap by VW standards (£10 70 inc VAT
part No BP 0012109E)
So the answer is to source a full size spare so you can use the insert.
Be carefull as it might only be for GT wheels which I think are a larger dia.

[sibs88]

Hi guys

Amazing post posts on here. Just wanted to ask a few questions and maybe get some simple yes and no answers. (im a bit simple!)

Firstly, im a student on a budget and just cant afford to be spending hundreds and hundreds. Ive been looking around on ebay and just wondered if i could get some opinions on this:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/VW-Golf-Towbar-Hatchback-MK-5-2004-2009-Tow-Bar-/270730257036?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item3f08c7e28c

I know i will have to make a cut in the bumper but im not too worried about this as the towbar is going to be on constantly. Obviously if i had a detachable one i wouldnt want a cut but hey, i cant afford a detachable one.

second main thing is the bypass relay and this is where i need it to be very simple answers. Ive seen the way it has been fixed into the boot, by the 12v cig socket. Attaching it to this means I dont need to make any connections to the fuse box or the battery? I really dont want to do anything with the main interior. I had to prat about with the interior in my old clio (interior heater behind the dash) and i wanted to kill myself. I really dont want to do anything in my mk5 golf.

cheers again



ps.......


just seen this

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/VW-Westfalia-Swan-Towbar-Golf-V-HATCHBACK-03-Kit-/230594595347?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item35b0824a13

says the cut is invisible. I doubt it is but i guess it will be small than the other one. I recon i can stretch to this. What do you guys think?

[Ben]

just seen this

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/VW-Westfalia-Swan-Towbar-Golf-V-HATCHBACK-03-Kit-/230594595347?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item35b0824a13

says the cut is invisible. I doubt it is but i guess it will be small than the other one. I recon i can stretch to this. What do you guys think?

A member call ed J3GGO fitted one of these and posted photos. He tows an eriba caravan with his.

In my opinion, the less bumper cutting the better.

You don't need to tamper with anything forward of the rear seats. All the work is in the boot area.
I take it you've read my how to thread?

[sibs88]

yeah i did thanks. Found the wiring part quite confusing but i guess it will make sense once ive actually got my head inside the boot.

its good to hear i dont have to do anything forward of the rear seats. Ive read a couple of horror stories on other websites!

im going to go and hunt out the pics of from J3GGO.

cheers guys!

[Ben]

. Found the wiring part quite confusing but i guess it will make sense once ive actually got my head inside the boot.

!

all the instruction come with the teb7as relay. believe me, it is very hard to describe wiring procedure in text.

If you are up for the challenge, bear in mind i've wired 3 teb7as relays, if you can write a guide to the wiring, include as many/few photos as you like, and i can understand it well enough, i'll edit it in to the main how to guide.

[emax]

I have just bought a VW Golf TDi 4motion and want to get a tow bar fitted for a cycle carrier.

I'll be cycling all year round and often on a whim on a nice day.

Before I decide whether to get a permanent or detachable tow bar, I was wondering if anyone with a detachable can tell me how quickly they can be fitted/removed?

Cheers,

Euan.

[Ben]

Once you have it in your hand, allow 15 seconds. Really easy.

[bob b]

I've fitted a tow bar on my mk v golf and have just received the wiring kit & relay from towbars direct. I haven't got the power socket fitted in the luggage compartment and was intending to take the feed direct from the battery. My question is would the wiring loom have the power cable in the luggage compartment, even though the socket isn't fitted ? It seems to me that VW wouldn't fit different looms for different models....would they ? Thanks for any assistance.

[polo2002]

Hi bob b I would think you are correct in your assumption that the plug will be in the loom behind the trim. I found that it is ignition feed though which means you will have no trailer lights without the ignition turned on. I rewired the fuse supply in the fuse box to make it battery feed.

[richard@thebrae]

Here is a very easy and professional way to supply power for your bypass relay, you can choose an ignition switched fuse, or a permantly live one just by choosing a suitable fuse in the side of dash fuse box.
http://shop.ebay.co.uk/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p4712.m570.l1313&_nkw=add+a+circuit&_sacat=See-All-Categories
I have ,fitted a couple in some recent jobs on Golf mkV's makes it so easy and safe, just run your feed to the back by slipping it under the door/carpet trims and slip the rear seat out to gain access over the wheel arch into the boot (around 10 mins max)

[martin1810]

VAG do indeed fit different looms. So you may or may not have a feed. Good chance you don't have one. VAG seem to love saving a few pence on a spare wire.

[bob b]

I've ordered one of those 'add-a-circuit' jobbies Richard put me onto. Its designed for the job & seems straightforward enough. This threads been extremely useful for me and thanks to the people who contributed.

[RacerMH]

I can't seem to find much in the thread about dedicated electrics. I'm planning on ringing around tomorrow, but has anyone else used a dedicated electrics kit?

I've ordered the bumper hatch thing and will be ordering a Westfalia bar tomorrow (had one on my Skoda and would always go for one given the choice), but still unsure about the electrics. A few questions.

-Which electrics kit should I get? Towequipe seem to suggest the kit they offer is only up to MY08 (my GTI is MY09 i.e. 08 plate) here (http://www.towequipe.co.uk/products/towbars-and-towbar-wiring-volkswagen--wartberg-golf-detachable-towbar/zekvw0004-7-pin-specific-towbar-wiring-volkswagen-golf-04-to-07.html) I only need the 7 pin as it's just a car trailer.

-Does it just plug in to an ECU somewhere? I found some instructions somewhere (which I now can't find!) which seemed to imply you need to run the wiring down the car to the fuse box?

-Does the trailer function need to be turned on in VagCom?

-And the big question.....which is easier to fit. Dedicated or the Duplex kit?!

[sg82]

Hi Ben,

You don't by any chance still have the part number for this?

Regards & Thanks,
Stu








Hi
I picke my bumper up this afternoon.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb105/golfmk5gttdi/03082007263.jpg
Oddly it doesn't come with any fittings, not even the towing hook cap. Suppose i'll just have to use the ones that are currently on the car.

I also ordered the tow bar today. i'll have that on Monday:D

Going on a tour of local spray shops tomorrow to get some quotes

[richard@thebrae]

If you just need electrics for a trailer then the duplex/bypass relay will be more than adequate.(much easier to fit also and you wont need VCDS to program it it in)
The dedicated electrics need wired into the CanBus system and programed in with VCDS.
Note this , when you fit the lower valence with the trap door be sure to trim the upper centre of the trap door (internally) or the towbar will rest against it slightly. this is in the instructions, but easy to miss.

[sg82]

Thanks Richard, Do you know the part number for the lower valance for the GT model - the one with the hidden exhaust?

[richard@thebrae]

Hi mine is a Golf Mk V Match and the exhaust is hidden. Had a quick look this morning but could not find the receipt but I will check tonight for you.

[richard@thebrae]

Sorry had a good look and cannot find my old receipt, but your local friendly VW dealer will tell you in an instant. I think it was around £60 inc VAT

This might help, http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?9482-Golf-Mk5-Tow-Bars-Q-amp-A-All-you-need-to-know-Guide!!-Advice-Tips.../page3

and Ben did a very Good "Howto" on this forum also

[sg82]

Thanks Richard,

I've just come from a 'not-so-friendly' dealer... it must have been a bad week...
He quoted me €83 inc VAT which is about £70-72 stg, for a satin black - un-primed valance.
The PN he gave me is 1K6 807 433 A.

I notice further down the parts list in Bens post theres a primed spoiler with PN 1K6 807 521 H
Would you have any idea if this is the same valance just primed?

Thanks for your help!



Sorry had a good look and cannot find my old receipt, but your local friendly VW dealer will tell you in an instant. I think it was around £60 inc VAT

This might help, http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?9482-Golf-Mk5-Tow-Bars-Q-amp-A-All-you-need-to-know-Guide!!-Advice-Tips.../page3

and Ben did a very Good "Howto" on this forum also

[richard@thebrae]

I do not know of a pre-primed lower valance with the trap door, but I can find out on Monday as I have to go to the dealers.
Bens "howto is here, but no part No's. http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?13686-quot-How-To-quot-Remove-the-Rear-Bumper-amp-Fit-A-Towbar-To-a-MK5-Golf
One bit of change I would advise is with the electrics as Ben accessed the fog light and reverse light via the tailgate with some difficulty, a better way is to access the loom over the rear nearside wheel arch, this is very easy by removing the rear seat,rear sill trim, and the parcel shelf support trim (hidden screw here next to the seatbelt outlet under a little trim blank) sounds daunting but is very easy, I can send you diags if you send me an email address that will accept jpgs.
You will need a 12v+ supply for the bypass relay and the best way to do this is from the fuse box on the drivers dash side by using a little gizzmo called "add a fuse" just search on ebay using this term. Run the supply under the sill trimm while you have the rear seat out.
It took me a morning to do the whole job.

[Arcady]

Excellent thread but forgive me if I've missed this basic question: is it necessary to remove the entire bumper, or can you install the tow bar if you just remove the lower valance (and light clusters)?

Thanks,

[richard@thebrae]

You have to drop the whole bumper, then get a protective surface (an old blanket on the lawn) and split the lower valance from the upper part (just a couple of plastic lock pins where you poke the centre pin through to release them, and then unclip the rest.), once you have the light clusters out it is only several torx headed screws that hold the whole bumper skin to the car (best have someone help you to drop it to prevent any scuffs to the paintwork)
The bit where Ben took the chisel to can be avoided if you trim the upper part of the trap door (inside out of sight) as per the instructions provided by Westfalia.

[Arcady]

Thanks Richard@the brae - I thought as much. Wish me luck...

[sg82]

Hi Richard,

Thanks for the extra advice, Ben's Howto post is great!
I'm not yet able to send PM's - have to have over 10 posts, so I will come back to you when I hit the magic number with an email address!

Thanks again,
sg82


I do not know of a pre-primed lower valance with the trap door, but I can find out on Monday as I have to go to the dealers.
Bens "howto is here, but no part No's. http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?13686-quot-How-To-quot-Remove-the-Rear-Bumper-amp-Fit-A-Towbar-To-a-MK5-Golf
One bit of change I would advise is with the electrics as Ben accessed the fog light and reverse light via the tailgate with some difficulty, a better way is to access the loom over the rear nearside wheel arch, this is very easy by removing the rear seat,rear sill trim, and the parcel shelf support trim (hidden screw here next to the seatbelt outlet under a little trim blank) sounds daunting but is very easy, I can send you diags if you send me an email address that will accept jpgs.
You will need a 12v+ supply for the bypass relay and the best way to do this is from the fuse box on the drivers dash side by using a little gizzmo called "add a fuse" just search on ebay using this term. Run the supply under the sill trimm while you have the rear seat out.
It took me a morning to do the whole job.

[sg82]

Hi Richard,

I have ordered my kit from towbars-direct today, according to their site the kit includes: Add a 7way towing bypass relay & fitting kit (included power cable, fuse, fuse holder)

Do I still need to order add-a-fuse?

Brgds & Thks,
sg82


I do not know of a pre-primed lower valance with the trap door, but I can find out on Monday as I have to go to the dealers.
Bens "howto is here, but no part No's. http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?13686-quot-How-To-quot-Remove-the-Rear-Bumper-amp-Fit-A-Towbar-To-a-MK5-Golf
One bit of change I would advise is with the electrics as Ben accessed the fog light and reverse light via the tailgate with some difficulty, a better way is to access the loom over the rear nearside wheel arch, this is very easy by removing the rear seat,rear sill trim, and the parcel shelf support trim (hidden screw here next to the seatbelt outlet under a little trim blank) sounds daunting but is very easy, I can send you diags if you send me an email address that will accept jpgs.
You will need a 12v+ supply for the bypass relay and the best way to do this is from the fuse box on the drivers dash side by using a little gizzmo called "add a fuse" just search on ebay using this term. Run the supply under the sill trimm while you have the rear seat out.
It took me a morning to do the whole job.

[richard@thebrae]

I suspect it is a length of cable with an inline fuse, you can utilise this, but "add a fuse" makes it easy and gives you an accessable fuse at all times. I dont like clipping into wires if I can help, but zillions of scotch connecters are use world wide, if you are comfortable with this, wait till your gear arrives.

[sg82]

I think i'll order the add-a-fuse, your way sounds a bit more practical.

[sg82]

Is it just me or has anyone else had a problem getting a response on email from VW dealers in Ireland? :mad: - It seems to me that the only way they will answer questions is if you call in, in person! :mad:

[sg82]

itching to get started on my towbar project! Headin north to get bumper tomorrow! - very firendly, hepful and informative dealer up there! :)
F'n useless irish dealers! I think there will be lots more northern trips ahead, since my local dealers dont want the money, no wonder the coutry is in flitters!

[sg82]

Also - Richard@thebrae - thank you for all your help and advice - just waitin for delivery now...

[Mini Mark]

Just brought and received this http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Towbar-Volkswagen-Golf-5-V-MK5-04-09-Detach-Towbar-Bar-/140535497440?pt=UK_Car_Accessories_Touring_Travel&hash=item20b89182e0 will be trying to fit it later today tomorrow may be asking for advise on wiring fitting it to a 2006 06 2.0TDI Sport

[Mini Mark]

Well Towbar is fitted but having trouble understanding the electrics will look again in the morning

[sg82]

Hi MiniMark,

Thats the same kit that i bought, just waiting to get the lower spoiler back from the paint shop before i try fitting. How'd it go for you? did it take long? I was budgeting about five to five and a half hours in total.

richard@thebrae made a useful suggestion, whilst you have the rear bumper off you should try and fit reversing sensors - saves on another removal later! I've ordered mine, picking them up tomorrow.

Let me know how you get on with the wiring.

sg82

[Mini Mark]

It didn't take too long to fit a messy job though going to get the garage next door to work to wire it up for around £50 it seams like the best option as I don't want to mess the electric up. Really nice set up just trying to find the tool box to hold the tow ball now

[richard@thebrae]

Hi Mark, the toolbox with the towbar stowage is part No. BP0012109E and cost£10.70 inc VAT in 03/2010 from the dealer, BUT, it is for a Full Size wheel ONLY.
I have a space saver and it does not fit (I have standard 16" wheels on my Golf Mkv tdi Match) and I think the space saver is 15" Two pics, 1)in large space saver from Ben's write up and 2) my small space saver.So beware as there is only one toolbox for detachable towbar stowage

.1479714798

[Mini Mark]

I think mine has the space saver wheel will check later thanks for that. If it is I'll just put the towbar on the shelf in the garage

[PFJones]

Hi

You can purchase all options of towbar and get help fitting from P.F.Jones

http://www.pfjones.co.uk/tow-bars.html

[pritch21]

hi all , im new to the forum.

my question to you is .....

does the audi a3 or seat leon mk2 towbar fir the golf mk5 gt 170 2007

kind regards owen

[Andy_Striker]

Hi Im new on here.

I have just fitted a tow bar and electrics but I cannot find the fog light feed. I'm looking under the RH side parcel shelf support. I thought it was purple/grey?

Cheers Andy

[Flash2]

The wiring leading into the tailgate (where the fog light is) is routed on the N/S (LH as you look into the boot). If you remove the trim around the boot lip (where the tailgate striker plate is) and the bracket thing inside the boot behind the N/S lamp unit and pull the boot side trim down, you'll see the wiring running up behind the trim. I think the fog light wire is grey/white and the reverse is black/blue if you need that one too. The wiring is a bit tight at that point but it's doable. If you take the C post trim off you'll find a couple of connectors in there and the wiring isn't so tight but it means removing more trims. It's a good idea to latch over the tailgate latch too when your checking for a power feed on the wires because on some models the power to the lamps on the tailgate is switched off when the tailgate is open.

Regards.

Jim.

[richard@thebrae]

You will find it under the wheel arch trim, it is white and green. Take the back seat out, remove the trim for the seat belt feed from the roller, watch for the hidden screw inside the little cover at this point also remove the parcel shelf support trim and the sill trim and all the wiring is exsposed.

[newbec]

I know this is an old thread now, but after much searching I've managed to find and fit a towbar to my Mk5 golf edition 30 with no bumper cut. It's a flange type towbar that I will remove the flange/towball part when I'm not going to use for any length of time and the only visible part will be a hardly noticeable bit of bracket underneath the bottom of the bumper. It's a Westfalia 321756.
I will post se pics up if anyone is interested

[r1charr]

Hello,

I was wondering if someone could give me advice?!

I have a MK5 Golf and want a fixed towbar to pull a small trailer. I have two very different quotes from local garages, one saying I will require genuine VW wiring therefore costing £346, and another saying they use universal wiring and have had no problems at a cost of £216.

Is it possible to use universal wiring without any issues?

Excuse my ignorance to the terminology with regards to towbar fitting as I have only just looked into it.

Thanks

[richard@thebrae]

A standard 7pin known as a (12nplug) and a bypass relay is all you need if you are only towing a small trailer this is what they are referring to as a universal set up. A towing specialist will be able to supply and fit this for a lotless than you are being quoted. look at pfjones web site ;- 12n 7 pin electrics kit inc Bypass Relay (http://www.pfjones.co.uk/12n-7-pin-electrics-kit-inc-bypass-relay.html#.UTdd6Ff3Y9k) this is what you need and they will fit it with their onsite fitting service if it is not within your remit.

[r1charr]

Thank you for your quick response.

[newbec]

I fitted a bypass relay to mine. No problems at all. You just end up with a buzzer in the boot to confirm that your trailer indicators are working, rather than a light on the dashboard that you would get with the VW specific wiring kit.

[r1charr]

Thank you.

Is £216 - the quoted price by my local towbar specialist - expensive for a flange towbar, single universal electrics?

[richard@thebrae]

Thank you.

Is £216 - the quoted price by my local towbar specialist - expensive for a flange towbar, single universal electrics?

seems reasonable as this is one of the most competitive suppliers add on his labour for 1 and 1/2 hours and it seems fair.
Tow Bar kit Fits VW Volkswagen Golf 5 Hatchback & Plus 04 ON | £119.34 | Towequipe.co.uk (http://www.towequipe.co.uk/products/towbars-and-towbar-wiring-volkswagen--wartberg-golf-flange-fixed-towbar/tvw-623-tow-bar-kit-fits-volkswagen-golf-5-hatch-and-plus-04-on.html)

[Aaz1400]

Can anyone provide me with the wiring for the rear lights left and right. Eg what colour wire is what light.

cant find it anywhere.