Towbar And Reversing Sensors

[maxstu]

I really like having reversing sensors on my camper. They are fairly reliable, if a little sensitive to dirt or cobwebs. Four sensors set in the rear bumper, with the inner two 42cm apart. Or each 21cm from centre line of vehicle.

l intend to fit a towbar. I have two l can choose from. A really good quality original Westfalia 75 kilos noseweight swan neck type. Or a non descriptive 50 kilos noseweight version, with bolt-on tow ball and protector plate.

My concern is the towbar will affect the sensors from giving an accurate reading. And while it is not exactly that testing fitting a towbar to these vehicles, it will mean unplugging sensors, bumper removal and attacking rusted end cap bolts through bumper caps and body panels. Then removing bumper irons and more, no doubt. Could be unnecessary aggro for a mild mannered man such as myself.

So my question is.... anyone else running rear sensors and a towbar. No issues or forget it and sell towbars?

Regards,
Stuart

[Oren Kipnis]

Hi Stuart,

I fitted various reversing sensors to cars fitted with a towbar. Although these are Saab cars, the method I used will always work.

I sat the towbar on a work bench, and made a cardboard mockup of the bumper. I test fitted the sensor kit and played with distance to the centre line to find the correct figure. The correct distance might depend in the sensor kit, as not all are the same.

Only then, I made the final installation, including drilling the bumper.

Oren

[maxstu]

Hi Oren,

Thanks for you reply. Your method makes perfect sense. Plus, I do have a spare bumper l can use for test purposes.

Regards
Stuart.