Towing changes what you can see. Put a caravan, boat or wide work trailer behind a LandCruiser 79 Series, and the factory mirrors may no longer show enough of the lane beside you. That gap matters when merging, overtaking or reversing into a tight site.
The short version
- Clip-on mirrors suit occasional towing, while direct-fit mirrors are generally more stable and predictable at highway speeds.
- MSA lists the TM400 for LandCruiser 70-79 Series models from 1984 to current, with four mirror positions and a five-year warranty.
- An aftermarket mirror cannot add a feature the vehicle never had, such as indicators or electric folding.
What Australian rules expect
Two things matter: what you can see and how far the mirror projects from the vehicle. Australian Design Rule 14/02 sets the required field of view for exterior mirrors. For Class III mirrors, this includes rearward vision from 20 metres behind the driver’s ocular points, meaning the driver’s eye position, towards the horizon. A trailer wider than the tow vehicle can block part of that view, which is the practical reason towing mirrors are needed.
Transport for NSW guidance in VSI-05 states that rear-vision mirrors may extend up to 230 mm beyond the vehicle’s width, provided they can fold back to within 150 mm. Retracting extended mirrors when you aren’t towing helps keep the vehicle within that limit. Requirements can vary by jurisdiction, so check the current guidance for the state or territory where the vehicle is registered.
Three types of towing mirrors
- Strap-on or clip-on mirrors. These attach to the standard mirror head with straps or clamps. They are affordable, easy to remove and practical for occasional towing, although they must be adjusted each time.
- Door-mounted clamp-on mirrors. These provide a firmer mounting point than most strap-on designs while remaining removable. Careful positioning is still required whenever they are installed.
- Direct-fit replacements. These replace the factory mirror assemblies and extend or rotate when needed. Vehicle-specific models are generally more stable than clip-on options at highway speeds, but they cost more and may require professional fitting.
Direct-fit options for the 79 Series
MSA uses one large mirror head that pivots on a heavy-duty extension slide rather than adding a second small lens. The TM400 is listed for LandCruiser 70-79 Series models from 1984 to current. It offers four mirror positions and carries a five-year warranty.
For drivers comparing MSA towing mirrors 79 series fitment, the main benefit is a vehicle-specific base that replaces the factory unit. The mirror can then be extended or rotated for towing while retaining compatible factory controls.
Installation is manageable for an experienced home mechanic, but it may involve drilling or wiring depending on the model. TJM Northern Beaches lists the TM400 and can also handle installation for owners who would rather leave the work to a workshop.
Check your year and variant first
- Your exact model year and body variant. Coverage for the 70-79 Series is broad, so confirm that the base and mounting points match your doors.
- Which functions the factory mirrors already support. Indicators, electric adjustment and power folding can usually be retained only when the vehicle already has the necessary controls and wiring.
- Any compliance notes tied to the vehicle’s category, including the NB requirements that apply to later LC70 models.
Fitting and using the mirrors
Fitting
MSA’s instructions state that the mirrors mount in the same general position as the original units. For 76 and 78 Series doors, the referenced instructions specify that the two base-fitting holes should be drilled 70 mm apart, centre to centre. Always follow the current instruction sheet supplied with the mirrors because fittings can change.
Using the four positions
MSA lists four settings: Standard Driving, Extended Driving, Horizontal and Towing Extended. Standard suits everyday driving. Extended moves the mirror head outward for a wider load. Horizontal changes the viewing angle for a high or wide trailer, while Towing Extended combines both adjustments. Return the mirrors to the standard position after unhitching.
Before your first tow
- Set your seat before adjusting the mirrors so the angles match your normal driving position.
- Confirm that you can see both sides of the trailer and the adjacent road.
- Check that the mirrors can fold back within the applicable projection limit.
- Take a short night drive to check for glare and vibration.
- Inspect the fasteners after the first trip and tighten them according to the fitting instructions if needed.
Alternatives worth comparing
- Clearview’s LC70 Next Gen and Compact mirrors extend by up to 180 mm and are available in single-lens and dual-lens layouts.
- Milenco Aero clip-on mirrors suit owners who tow only a few times a year and do not want a permanent replacement.
Compare glass shape, extension range, vibration, replacement-part availability and compatibility with existing controls. No mirror upgrade can add electric folding or indicators if the vehicle lacks the required wiring and controls.
Choosing the right setup
If you tow regularly, a direct-fit set such as MSA’s 70-79 Series mirrors offers a stable mounting point and quicker adjustment between trips. Professional installation from a workshop such as TJM Northern Beaches also avoids the risks associated with drilling or wiring. For occasional towing, a well-fitted clip-on set may be enough. In either case, confirm the model year, variant and applicable projection rules before choosing a mirror.
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