Pros and Cons of each Towbar
Fixed Flange Towbar Types
A Fixed Flange Towbar is generally the most cost effective option, and is the most commonly used in the UK. The tow ball is attached to the tow bar using either two or four 24mm bolts, and it can be used with tow ball mounted accessories ie cycle carriers, bumper protectors etc, which are mounted between the towbar and ball.
Pros
- Compatible with a large range of vehicles
- Can be used with a choice of tow balls
- Tow and carry cycles at the same time (subject to load limits)
Cons
- The tow bar and the electrics can be seen
- Different types of towballs can be expensive
Detachable Flange Towbar Types
A Detachable Flange Towbar is the newest type of towbar and works in a very similar way to the Fixed Flange Towbar. The towball is attached to the neck with 2 24mm bolts, however the neck can be removed from the bar using a lock and key. The standard towball is an Alko ball, so is compatible with Alko stabilisers.
Pros
- Cannot be seen when not in use and is aesthetically better looking compared to fixed towbars
- Reduces the risk of injury when the neck is removed
- Is compatible with an increasing number of vehicles
- Won’t trigger reversing sensors when removed
Cons
- Towbar height cannot be altered
- A limited range of alternate towballs
- Much more expensive than fixed towbars
Fixed Swan Neck Towbar Types
Fixed Swan Neck Towbars are often used outside of the UK. They are the less adaptable than Flange towbars as they cannot be used with additional accessories. Cycle carriers are available, however they cannot be used whilst towing.
Pros
- Less likely to trigger reversing sensors
- Compatible with a large number of vehicles
- Looks more discreet than a Fixed Flange towbar
Cons
- Towball height cannot be altered
- Slightly more expensive than Fixed Flange towbars
- Alternate towballs cannot be fitted
- Cannot be fitted with a bumper shield
Detachable Swan Neck Towbar Types
The Detachable Swan Neck Towbar is similar to the Fixed Swan Neck, this style was the first detachable type to be offered. It is mainly used in Europe, and although a cycle carrier can be used, but they cannot tow at the same time.
Pros
- Cannot be seen when not in use and is aesthetically better looking compared to fixed towbars
- Reduces the risk of injury when the neck is removed
- Is compatible with an increasing number of vehicles
- Won’t trigger reversing sensors when removed
Cons
- Towbar height cannot be altered
- Alternate towballs cannot be fitted
- Much more expensive than fixed towbars
Retractable Swan Neck Towbar Types
The retractable swan neck towbar is perfect if you regularly use your towbar and value the design of your vehicle. All you need is one simple hand movement and it is ready to use again. A retractable towbar is maintenance-free. As the ball is always connected to the sleeve this ensures there is no dirt is left behind. Due to this reason alone, the retractable towbar combines all features of both the fixed and detachable towbars.
Pros
- Cannot be seen when not in use and is aesthetically better looking compared to fixed towbars
- Reduces the risk of injury when the neck is removed
- Is compatible with an increasing number of vehicles
- Won’t trigger reversing sensors when removed
Cons
- Towbar height cannot be altered
- Alternate towballs cannot be fitted
- Much more expensive than fixed towbars
We are NTTA Approved, this means:
- QS Members are trained to the highest standards and are assessed yearly in accordance with the NTTA QS Code of Practice.
- All Members are fully insured and will have Public Liability insurance.
- Warranties are provided with every towbar fit; with one year being the minimum.
- QS Members have all undergone training on vehicle coding and have the correct machinery to safely undertake the work
Member Promoting excellence in towbar installation trailer/caravan servicing and maintenance. The QS Scheme is recognised by over a million members of the public and is recommended and endorsed by the Automobile Association (AA), The Caravan Club and The Camping and Caravanning Club. A fundamental requirement for Quality Secured is to ensure that its members are rigorously monitored and in dependently audited on an annual basis to retain their accreditation. The NTTA’s priority is to ensure the safety of the towing community and recommends people use qualified professionals who have the QS accreditation to provide this vital service.
