7 Pin Towbar for BMW 3 Series Saloon 1998-2005 Detachable Swan Neck (E46)

7 Pin – 12N Socket

This is a plain black socket containing 7 Pins and is the more commonly used system today, although on newer caravans, trailers & bike carriers etc. a more sophisticated 13 Pin system is being introduced.
The functions of this standard 7 Pin socket are to operate all road lights, including fog but excluding reverse.
Some caravans now have built in Stabilization systems such as Al-Ko’s ‘ATC’ which help to prevent ‘snaking’ when towing. This system along with the reverse light would only function from a Double Electrics (12’N’ & 12’S’) or 13-pin systems

7 Pin – 12S Socket

(Also referred to as twin electrics when fitted in conjunction with the 12N socket)
This is a grey or white socket has a different pin configuration to the 7 Pin 12N black socket. The 12S socket provides power to operate the interior functions of the caravan such as the interior lights, run the fridge and charge the battery whilst you are towing.
The dual 12N and 12S system has been replaced with the 13 Pin system on caravans since approximately 2008. Please see details below on 13 Pin.
Even though your caravan maybe fitted with dual plugs, not everybody will avail of its functionality and it may not be necessary to have your tow vehicle fitted with the 12S socket.

Fixed Flange Ball Towbar

The fixed flange type towbar would be the most versatile of styles which will allow you to bolt various accessories and attachments between the ball and towbar, such as bumper protector plates, caravan stabiliser attachment plates and cycle carrier base plates. It will also allow the fitment of specialist balls such as an AL-KO ball for use with friction type coupling head stabilisers and for fitting a jaw and pin or a universal coupling for commercial ring type coupling heads.

Tow and carry cycles at the same time (subject to nose load limits)
Bumper shields can be fitted
AL-KO tow bars can be fitted
The towing height can be adjusted on commercial and 4×4 four-hole plate towbars
A choice of towing couplings and accessories can be fitted

Fixed Swan Neck Towbar

This style is more commonly seen as an O.E. or continental style of towbar but would be the least flexible in design as no additional bolt-on accessories can be used. It would have a less obstructive appearance than the flange ball style.

Cycle carriers are available for use with this type of bar but you cannot tow at the same time.
Compatible with AL-KO stabilisers
Less likely to trigger reversing sensors
Cannot be fitted with a bumper shield

Detachable Swan Neck Towbar

Detachable swan neck towbars are becoming increasingly popular due to the ease in which they can now be used. In most cases when removed it would be difficult to tell whether a towbar has been fitted at all. A detachable towbar is a legal requirement if the standard type towbar obscures the number plate when fitted. The other occasion you may require a detachable option would be if the standard neck type was picking up the reversing sensors on the car, if fitted.

Cycle carriers are available for this type of bar but you cannot tow at the same time.
Towball is removed when not in use preserving ‘shins’
Unrestricted access to the boot
AL-KO and other friction type stabilisers can be fitted
Won’t trigger reversing sensors when neck section is removed.