T5 flanged, fixed tow bar with reversing sensors help?

[SpokyO]

I would like to fit a westfaliia flanged, 2 bolt type, tow bar to my 2012 140 transporter. I need the flange for a trials bike rack. Vehicle has standard Vw reversing sensors, will the flange type tow bar interfere with these? Any one had any experience with this fitment? Will probably go with westfalia wiring just to make sure it's a 'proper job'.

 

[WelshGas]

I would like to fit a westfaliia flanged, 2 bolt type, tow bar to my 2012 140 transporter. I need the flange for a trials bike rack. Vehicle has standard Vw reversing sensors, will the flange type tow bar interfere with these? Any one had any experience with this fitment? Will probably go with westfalia wiring just to make sure it's a 'proper job'.

The Flange shouldn't cause a problem with reverse sensors, but when you fit the rack it will cause a problem unless you use the OEM wiring and Tow Bar socket and an Auxilliary wiring board for side lights and indicators etc:. Because if the tow bar and wiring are then correctly coded into the vehicles electronics then when the Auxiliary board is plugged in the Reversing Sensors will be disabled. If you have a reversing camera then that should continue to work although the view might be limited.

 

[AlanC]

In my experience any tow bar sticking out beyond the bumper will be seen by the reversing sensors if the system is not wired correctly.

This is a real pain as they also act erratically. Sometimes beeping and sometime not. Working out if you are going to bump into something becomes impossible.

So I would recommend you install the correct wiring immediately and get the van coded for a tow bar at the same time.

Peace will then descend on your manoeuvring.

Alan