Towing Covers - Thoughts Please

Keeps the front clean and greatly reduces the likely damage if a rock hits one of the front windows.

Many thanks for this.  I guess I wanted to try to get a bit of an understanding of why, if they are that beneficial, I didn't see more in use today in my admittedly small sample on a sunny day in May.

Personally I think they are a good idea. A damaged front window from a stone is an expensive fix...... 

why, if they are that beneficial, I didn't see more in use today in my admittedly small sample

It is probably because the covers are a dark colour and you don't notice it - unlike seeing a livid white behemoth looming towards you.

I had a window damaged a few years ago and the subsequent problems this caused encouraged me to use a towing cover.

I chose one from specialised covers which was made to measure. This prevents flapping which can cause damage to the bodywork.

It is important to make sure the front is cleaned before fitting, it only takes a few minutes to slide it on and clip the underside.

I wouldn't be without it now. You can get a small club discount on purchase.

Ken

I agree that only a small percentage of vans have them. I think most people do not see the need, for whatever reason. More hassle, not needed, unable to fit it, buy new van every few years etc etc.Our first van, brand new, suffered from a few stone chips, the front lost its shine after 8 years and the windows ended up having lots and lots of very fine scratches, spoiling the view. Hence we invested a couple of hundred quid in a towing cover when we changed vans. 

I am surprised motorhomes don't have them too.

When purchased one when after our first couple of trips we suffered stone chips towards the bottom of the front panel. 

Used it on 2 vans now and as they say 'wouldn't leave home without it'

Keeps the front of the van clean and we go away whenever schools are on holiday. Before fitting it we use waterless cleaner over front of the van.

Simple to fit takes 5 mins and use the steps to get to the top straps if needed.

As for 'flapping' when towing the wind moulds it to the front of the van so never had a problem with that happening.

Ours was from Protec some 6 years ago and still doing the job.

Thank you all for your thoughts on towing covers.  Sounds like people who do use them wouldn't (as stated above) leave home without them.      

With our last caravan it had a lounge at each end, hence a rear window, and towed behind our Disco we had through vision in the rear view mirror............

That would have been the only reason to stop me having one.......