Westfalia Tow Bar Installation and Operating Instructions
For VW Polo (6R) 2009-2013 and VW Polo GP (6R) 2013 onwards (Cross, GTI, BlueMotion, R-Line)
Product Identification and Specifications
Brand: Westfalia
Model Number: 321 832 600 001
Vehicle Compatibility:
- VW Polo (6R) 2009-2013
- VW Polo GP (6R) 2013 onwards
- VW Polo Cross, GTI, BlueMotion, R-Line
Technical Specifications:
- Type: 321 741
- Approval Number: E13 55R-01 3802
- Class and Hitch Type: A50-X
- D-Value: 7.0 kN
- Max. Vertical Load (S): 50 kg
- Towing Capacity: Refer to vehicle registration document
Installation Overview and Components
The tow bar system consists of several components. The main structural part is the tow bar arm (labeled '1' in diagrams). It attaches to the vehicle's chassis using various bolts and washers.
Key Components and Fasteners (Example from Page 2):
- Tow bar arm (1)
- Ball mount (2)
- Various bolts and nuts (e.g., M10x35, M12x80, 10.5x30x3, 13x24x2.5)
- Washers
Installation Steps (General Description):
Installation involves attaching the tow bar to the vehicle's frame. Specific steps may require removing parts of the vehicle's underbody protection or bumper trim. Diagrams illustrate the precise mounting points and the use of specific fasteners.
Example Step (from Page 8, Step 5): The tow bar arm is shown being attached to the vehicle's frame using M10x35 bolts and 10.5x30x3 washers. A torque specification of 55 Nm is indicated for these fasteners.
Example Step (from Page 4, Diagram 10a): Shows the attachment of the ball mount (2) to the tow bar arm (1) using M12x80 bolts, with a specified torque of 95 Nm.
Clearance Requirements: Ensure clearance according to ECE-R 55, Appendix 7, Figures 25a and 25b. This involves maintaining specific spatial clearances around the tow bar assembly for safety and regulatory compliance.
Technical Drawing (Page 9): A detailed technical drawing shows a component with specific dimensions and radii, indicating a 1:1 scale.
Safety and Operating Instructions
General Safety:
- National guidelines regarding installation approvals must be observed.
- Any modifications or alterations to the tow bar are prohibited and will void the operating license.
- Remove insulating compound or underbody protection from the vehicle in the area of the tow bar's contact surfaces.
- The tow bar is intended for towing trailers and for use with load carriers. Any other use is prohibited.
- Parking Assist Systems: Vehicles equipped with parking assist systems may experience malfunctions after tow bar installation if parts of the tow bar (ball mount, coupling ball) are within the sensor's detection range. Adjust the sensing range or deactivate the parking assist system if necessary. For detachable or pivoting ball mounts, malfunctions are unlikely when the ball mount is not in the operating position.
- The tow bar is a safety-critical component and must only be installed by qualified companies. Incorrect installation can lead to serious accidents.
- The German text of these instructions is binding.
- Subject to change.
Operational Notes:
- The D-value (7.0 kN) determines the maximum towing capacity in conjunction with the vehicle's gross vehicle weight (T) and maximum towing capacity (C) according to the formula: D = (T x C) / (T + C) x 0.00981.
- Break-in Period: It is recommended to drive approximately 1000 km after installation before towing, indicated by symbols representing 0 km and 1000 km.
- Weight Limits: Specific weight limits apply, indicated by symbols like '16 kg' and 'x + 16 kg'.
- Clearance Check: Ensure the ball mount is at least 49mm from the vehicle's bumper edge (indicated by ✔️ > 49mm and ❌ < 49mm).