R4 tow bar

[petak]

Hello to everyone!

recently discussion was going on about what is proper R4 vehicle?
In my mind it is basically "working horse" ready to carry or tow big load.
And still capable of working normally in everyday traffic.

For that purpose it must have tow bar.

forum member Tripyrenees asked for some measurement of a tow bar.
So here i am posting you few pictures and drawing (as pdf file) for tow bar that i have on my R4.
It is made in Slovenia by company who is making tow bars for all kind of cars.
It is certificated and approved and can be bought and installed in R4 without any questions about towing capabilities

Hope that this informations will help someone to make their own tow bar

Just to bi noted. This tow bar fits perfectly on 1992 GTL.
I think that will fit to all TL and GTL models but would be good idea to check measurements before.
Also for F models I believe that brackets need to be little bit longer but not sure. Please check before!











View attachment R4 kuka.pdf

 

[Tripyrenees]

That is great - thank you so much.

 

[Distributor Doctor]

Petak, Can you please tell me how to contact the company who make this bar.

I'm happy to order one.

 

[petak]

Hi Distributor doctor!

I have bought this tow bar from Slovenian scrap yard for 50€ some 7 or 8 year ago.

But here is link to that same manufacturer.
http://www.bartolj.si/vlecne-naprave/navodila-za-uporabo-vlecnega-prikljucka.html

Unfortunately page is only on Slovenian but here is link for contact them
http://www.bartolj.si/kontakt.html

IF you have any more questions you can contact me and i will try to help you

 

[JonathanT]

Hello Distributor Doc

If you are still in the market (after such a long time) for a towbar I may be able to help. I've designed a similar one and had a local company cut it out by laser.
Still undergoing finite trials but will post all findings and info how to make one.

Jonathan

 

[Tripyrenees]

I am interested - does the ball detach so it is hidden?

 

[JonathanT]

Amazing !!!! I have this evening tried out my R4 GTL with my Eriba Puck Caravan. - The combination tows per perfectly! I really did expect the 'tail to be wagging the dog' but no. Acceleration good and handling excellent. I can even see through the window via my rear view mirror. Though it is in the top third of the R4 rear window.

Normally I tow with my big People Carrier (C8) Frankly it doesn't know the caravan is on the back... so I am truly amazed that my little R4 with its soft suspension style and diminutive size and weight does it so well... Just got to remember the R4 is narrower than the Caravan and the C8 wider!

I have designed a towbar and had it cut out by laser. It replaces both inside bumper supports and the two towing eyes. Bolting in place with three bolts on each side at the rear of the chassis using existing holes I guess are present on all R4's . The crossbar is discreetly placed directly behind the bumper and is not seen. The tow ball and bracket detach leaving only the electrical socket and a towball 'receptor' visible. I will post some photos on here soon together with the AutoCAD drawings for anyone to make their own under their own responsibility.

Anyway hoping this thread is of interest to those wishing to tow a vintage caravan or trailer.

Jonathan

 

[Tripyrenees]

I would be interested in how you picked up the electrics too... Caravan looks great.

 

[petak]

R4 is stubborn mule and towing load like a lorry.

Yesterday, friend told me that he pull out 1000kg in his little F6.
To me it seems little bit to optimistic.

 

[DAA]

I'm looking to buy an towbar, but finding is not easy. In Portugal Is mandatory have the the certificate plate on the towbar so made one is out os question.

Anyone knows any shop to buy one?

 

[Q plate]

Der Franzose have them 149 euros plus shipping
Regards AL

 

[DAA]

Der Franzose have them 149 euros plus shipping
Regards AL

Thanks a lot.. I don't know why but the search didn't work at 1st time.. but after searching only for Tow I found it..

 

[DAA]

Thanks a lot.. I don't know why but the search didn't work at 1st time.. but after searching only for Tow I found it..

Arrived!! Thanks again