Trailer hitch

[storm9c1]

The update on my end is the hitch CP has is the "new design" one that eliminates the impact bar from the bumper altogether. Whereas the older design preserves it and it is bolted on using studs in the towbar. This right now is my biggest hangup. I wish I could get ahold of the older design (doesn't seem like CP can) or perhaps go aftermarket. At least I know what I'm looking for now.

For a 2011 PPV, there isn't going to be any issues with the lower fascia. But for 2012, that may be a different story. Perhaps the only concern would be the lack of an outline for which to cut the hole in the one-piece bumper fascia. My 2011 is indeed a two piece design and has the cutout pattern molded in. It wouldn't be unreasonable to make a paper or cardboard template/pattern from a 2011 to use on a 2012 in this case. I wonder if the 2011 escutcheon (insert) will still fit to finish off the hole.

My rear bumper is still apart, and that makes my car undriveable so I need to figure out what I'm going to do real soon...

CP, if you are listening, do I have any other options for a towbar sourced from you or do you think I need to go aftermarket if I want to retain the impact bar? If I find a towbar, I'll still want the installation kit (escutcheon) and wiring harness from you...

[Navy Lifer]

June 25 post updated with pictures (on previous page)

[storm9c1]

Update: I have asked this seller if this towbar deletes the impact bar or not. It has studs, so it appears to retain it. I will verify and see if he will ship to the USA.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Holden-State ... 27bc949222" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Navy Lifer]

Had a call this evening from a tech at Cequent Group (Draw-Tite). Very little likelihood that they will tool up for a PPV hitch, so it's a matter of determining whether their G8 (24821) hitch can be used. (2000# max trailer weight, 200# tongue weight, 1.25" receiver. For heavier towing, you'll need to go to Oz or create your own.

I sent the PDF with details to a few of you--if I didn't send to you, and you want the info, let me know, and I'll forward via e-mail.

The PDF provides a better view of the install instructions http://www.draw-tite.com/content/downlo ... N24821.pdf" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;, with added dimensional information that could help determine if it will work on PPV.

[Tom Slick]

I might be interested in a hidden setup!

Later,
Tom Slick

[Navy Lifer]

I can't figure out how to extract the actual picture, but in the new (WN) Caprice online info, there is a 3/4 rear view which actually shows a hitch in place on the car.

http://www.holden.com.au/cars/caprice" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Maybe C.P. can pull the picture from the GM Media files--he's done it before.

[Crazy Paul]

http://www.holden.com.au/cars/caprice/g ... 1794712393" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Navy Lifer]

that's the one....but I wasn't sure if it could be pulled from the high-res GM Media files.

Thanks!

[Tom Slick]

That won't work for my 2012... Mine is all one piece, not a two piece like in the photo...

Now, if they had a behind the License plate version, that would be awesome!!!

Later,
Tom Slick

[Navy Lifer]

Tom (Slick), the real question is whether the one-piece rear fascia is PPV only for 2012 & newer, or if the same design is now being used on Omega/Berlina or other models--and with 2014 models, how much other evolutionary change has been made to this piece for domestic (Holden) variants vs PPV. That's a C.P. question....

The desire to hide the hitch receiver is understandable, but it's something that the market isn't going to produce, so....., if you want it, you'll have to do it yourself, if you just can't stand the idea of cutting into the rear fascia. Holden is not going to offer a fold-down license plate for this vehicle, and I have a feeling the bumper bar is going to be in the way even if you try to bring a hitch through that area.

Steve Eckart has ordered the G8 hitch, and he & Scott Williams are going to see if it will work--or can be made to work without too much effort/modification. Since you're in TX, with interest, you might hook up with them and make the trip down to Round Rock/Georgetown to observe.