What is the cost of a towbar
The price is different for each Make and Model of vehicle. Towbars are made specific to each different model of vehicle, mostly they are made to have a towing capacity to match the vehicle manufacturer's limit.
Example - toyota Corolla 2020> 2024 may have a 1600kg towing capacity, an a Lancruiser 2019>2024 has a 3500kg towing capacity.
This capacity can be found in your vehicle hand book, or by contacting the vehicle manufacturers helpdesk. It is advisable to do this by email so you have a record. Print this and keep it in the glove box in case you need to prove it when you are on a trip.
When we price a towbar, it has 4 sections, Towbar (the physical frame and the bolts) Wiring parts (includes the ECU), the trailer socket (this is the connection you plug your trailer into), and the labour cost to fit it.
The towbar wiring is designed to connect to the existing wiring in the vehicle, and in most cases this is a plug in system. Vehicles with a more advanced wiring system require a more advanced towbar harness and this increases the overall towbar price.
These prices vary greatly from vehicle to vehicle so SCVA price each vehicle separately. You could expect the completed project to cost you between $600 and $2500.
It is Transport regulation that if you are towing 750kgs or more (Trailer and load) you require the trailer to have brakes. These rules can be found on the Transport Department web site in your state, and we recommend you read them before you tow. There are 3 main types of trailer brakes, Hydraulic, Electric/Hydraulic and Electric, the last 2 mentioned require a controller to be fitted in the vehicle behind the dash, and in most cases this is an additional cost that will cost you over $700.
Read your handbook for the specification of your vehicle, some smaller vehicles the manufacturers require electric brakes if you are towing over 400kgs.
April 2024 Cooler weather = A good Time to clean your work vehicle
A change in the weather is a welcome reprieve from the long wet summer, and is a good chance to clean up and refresh your work vehicle.
Empty the cargo space of your van or the ute tray and toolboxes, and give the storage space a good clean with spray & wipe and some paper towel or microfibre cloth.
Wipe down the seats, the steering wheel, the door pockets and the glovebox. (Dump all the papers etc in a box to sort next weekend).
Leave it to dry and consider how you will reset the space once it is dry. Take the time to rehydrate with your favourite beverage and get some fresh air.
Restore your tools and equipment to their spots, make a note of what needs reorganising in your phone or calendar to tackle it another day (dont be tempted to organise today - otherwise the task becomes too overwhelming).
Once everythings away, give the outside of the vehicle a good wash with your favourite cleaning products (or run through the local carwash) - dont forget the wheels.
Start your work week feeling clean and organised.
March 2024 Maintaining a Management system for your Work vehicle
Many of us run our business from a vehicle these days - thanks to technology, so its important to have a management system so all important info is accessible when we are on the job.
Simple systems are the easiest to maintain - create a folder on your phone or laptop, of get an actual binder from Officeworks or the home office.
Firstly, note your vehicle details, when the rego is due, Insurance policy number, finance payment details, log book,etc.
Suppliers / Contractors- keep the contact details of your regular suppliers and contractors
Emergency contact details - partner's contact details, kids school number, Parents contact details, Dr's number, RACQ, Insurance Rep contact, worker contact info, workcover policy details, fire protection equiment Maintenance schedule
Accountant - keep the accountant contact details and a virtual file or zippered pouch for any receipts which apply to work
Forms & advertising material- invoices, advertising material, business cards, quote forms etc
Cash / Cards - Keep a small amount of cash and or Debit & credit cards to hand
Calendar - have a digital or paper calendar to refer to all work related dates
First Aid - keep a list of First Aid supplies and regularly check that they are in good condition and on hand
Once the system is set up and working, it can be expanded to include checklists for routine tasks, instruction for what details to capture in the event of an accident, reminders for equipment maintence etc.
