Tow Bar

[cooper12000]

hi all I am thinking of fitting a tow bar to my 2008 (2007 model) avensis estate as I want to use a pair of spectacles for towing cars that's if I ever get a straight answer as to what I can tow with my current licence.

a couple of my neighbours have cars with detachable tow bars as an optional extra. is that a possibility on the avensis????? if not how much is it for a standard one. also is the wiring already there just hidden or will I have to alter the loom as well.

many thank

coop

[FROSTYBALLS]

Have a look at the following:

http://www.toyotaownersclub.com/forums/topic/160289-thule-towbar-wiring-installation/?hl=%2Bfitting+%2Btow+%2Bbar#entry1341047

http://www.toyotaownersclub.com/forums/topic/133994-2010-t27-towbar-electrics/?hl=%2Btowbar+%2Bwiring#entry1192667

[Devon Aygo]

Tow bars are available from Toyota see: http://www.toyota-tech.eu/Aim/Aim.aspx?pubtype=AIM&menuitem=3

or from your local towbar specialsit, as for being allowed to tow see here: https://www.gov.uk/towing-rules

[cooper12000]

so which is it 750kg trailer+load or 3500kg car +trailer+load. the whole point of this is to tow another car on specs as I restore classic cars and need a reliable way of moving them around without having to resort to hiring car transporters b4 they have an mot etc on them.

[Devon Aygo]

Unless you have specific codes such as BE, C1E, CE, DE or D1E on your licence then your absolute weight limits ( car incl load & trailer incl load ) is 3500kg total.

To find out how much you can tow you will need to find out the unladen weight of your Avensis then add the weight of the load ( driver, passengers, load & fuel ) then deduct this from 3500kg this will give you your maximum tow weight, you also have to consider the maximum tow capacity of the Avensis which on a MK2 ranged from 1200-1400kg depending on model. Also the trailer weight can never exceed that of the car.

From what you describe you need to do it seems you will need at least the BE extension on your license and towcar able to pull more than the Avensis can.

[cooper12000]

that's what I was thinking. if I went to all the expense of getting the licence extensions, a trailer, a new car and a tow bar fitted then I might as well buy a transporter. i was just trying to save myself 100 quid each time i went to the garage with it especialy as the garage is about 5 miles away it seams a little pricey.

many thanks anyway

coop