The Panda Nut
Nutty about Pandas Infected by Panda virus and OPD
Well finally completed the swap over and I can confirm that the towbar off the standard 4x4 does fit the cross models. You do have to cut the bumper it requires quite a large hole, but it is still not visible from the rear with the bar removed. I have a few pictures if anyone else is doing the job.
Main bit of advice is bumper removal. There is a short piece of grey trim that edges the bumper held by two Philips screws that needs to be carefully released to allow the bumper to be removed and replaced without damage. Failure to get this bit right will result in a broken bumper which would be difficult to re-align / fit again.
Fitting the towbar is simple.
There are a lot of holes behind the bumper that are not properly sealed / grommited so if you are thinking if paddling your 4x4 cross / waze, check that you have sealed these or you will get water ingress.
I only noticed while fitting that the tyres are the 175s not 185s fitted to the cross. What on earth is going on here I cant imagine A 4x4 without at least all season tyres is a bit daft. So I now want another set of wheels and tyres. I am actually glad to have the narrower tyres as this will benefit fuel consumption. Still pleased with the waze and still surprised how much quicker it feels.
Car looks better in reality than in the photos and I am pleased with the Supaguard. The little handbag provided with cleaning products is just right for the stuff I carry in addition to the jack bag in the boot.
Panda has been working already collecting a full load of bedding plants and shifting logs. I now remember why I ordered electric mirrors as I use them a lot while reversing the trailer. Oh well I shall have to slum it and lean over.
PS best way to cut the bumper is a Stanley knife!
Main bit of advice is bumper removal. There is a short piece of grey trim that edges the bumper held by two Philips screws that needs to be carefully released to allow the bumper to be removed and replaced without damage. Failure to get this bit right will result in a broken bumper which would be difficult to re-align / fit again.
Fitting the towbar is simple.
There are a lot of holes behind the bumper that are not properly sealed / grommited so if you are thinking if paddling your 4x4 cross / waze, check that you have sealed these or you will get water ingress.
I only noticed while fitting that the tyres are the 175s not 185s fitted to the cross. What on earth is going on here I cant imagine A 4x4 without at least all season tyres is a bit daft. So I now want another set of wheels and tyres. I am actually glad to have the narrower tyres as this will benefit fuel consumption. Still pleased with the waze and still surprised how much quicker it feels.
Car looks better in reality than in the photos and I am pleased with the Supaguard. The little handbag provided with cleaning products is just right for the stuff I carry in addition to the jack bag in the boot.
Panda has been working already collecting a full load of bedding plants and shifting logs. I now remember why I ordered electric mirrors as I use them a lot while reversing the trailer. Oh well I shall have to slum it and lean over.
PS best way to cut the bumper is a Stanley knife!
Last edited: