WESTFALIA Detachable Tow Ball

Introduction

This document provides instructions for the installation and operation of the WESTFALIA detachable tow ball system designed for the Mini Countryman.

Safety Warnings and Compliance

• ⚠ General Safety: Always follow national guidelines for installation and approval.
• ⚠ Prohibited Modifications: Any alterations or modifications to the tow bar are forbidden and will void the operating license.
• ⚠ Preparation: Remove insulating material or underbody protection from the vehicle's contact surfaces where the tow bar will be fitted.
• ⚠ Intended Use: The tow bar is designed for towing trailers and carrying loads only. Any other use is prohibited.
• ⚠ Parking Aid Interference: Vehicles equipped with parking assistance systems may experience malfunctions due to the tow bar components being within the sensor range. Adjust the sensing range or deactivate the parking aid if necessary.
• ⚠ Safety Component: The tow bar is a safety-critical part and must only be installed by qualified professionals. Incorrect installation can lead to serious accidents.
• ⚠ German Text Binding: The German text in this manual is the legally binding version.
• ⚠ General: Keep hands away from moving parts during operation. Never unlock the hitch when a trailer or load carrier is attached.

Technical Specifications

• Type: 323 097
• Vehicle: Mini Countryman (R60, UKL-X)
• Attachment Class: A50-X
• Approval: e13*55R-01 3278
• D-Value: 7.35 kN
• Max. Vertical Load (S): 75 kg
• Towing Capacity: Refer to vehicle's registration document.
• Compliance: Meets European Directive 94/20.

Parts List

The detachable tow ball system includes:

• 1 Receiver / Mounting Tube
• 2 Tow Ball / Detachable Ball
• 3 Locking Balls
• 4 Release Lever / Disengagement Lever
• 5 Handwheel
• 6 Cover / Cap
• 7 Key
• 8 Red Marking (Handwheel)
• 9 Green Marking (Handwheel)
• 10 Green Marking (Tow Ball)
• 11 Symbol (Release Mechanism)
• 12 Plug / Stopper
• 13 Stop Pin / Insertion Bolt
• Hardware: 6x M10 bolts, 6x 10.5x20x2 bolts.
• Accessories: 2x Keys, Information Sticker, Operating Manual.

Installation Instructions

Note: Installation requires basic mechanical knowledge. If unsure, consult a professional.

1. Step 1: Bumper Removal

   Remove the rear bumper cover. [Diagram shows arrow pointing to rear bumper removal].

2. Step 2: Bumper Beam Removal

   Remove the bumper beam from the vehicle's chassis.

3. Step 3: Mounting the Tow Bar Brackets

   Attach the tow bar brackets to the vehicle's frame using the provided M10 bolts. Secure 3x M10 and 3x 10.5x20x2 bolts per side. Torque bolts to 55 Nm.

   [Diagram shows tow bar brackets being attached to the vehicle's frame with bolts and torque specification M10 → 55Nm].

4. Step 4: Bumper Modification

   The rear bumper may require modification (cutting) to accommodate the tow bar. Refer to the diagram for specific cut lines and dimensions (e.g., R30, 40, 110, 10, 20, 100, 120, 157).

   [Diagram shows bumper with cut lines and dimensions indicating where to trim].

5. Step 5: Re-attach Bumper

   Re-install the bumper cover and ensure all connections are secure.

Operating the Detachable Tow Ball

Before each journey, ensure the detachable tow ball is correctly locked:

• ? Check 1: Green marking on the handwheel aligns with the green marking on the tow ball.
• ? Check 2: Handwheel is flush against the tow ball (no gap).
• ? Check 3: Lock is closed, and the key is withdrawn. The handwheel cannot be pulled out.
• ? Check 4: The tow ball is fully inserted and securely fixed in the receiver. Check by shaking it.

If any check fails, repeat the installation or do not use the hitch.

Mounting the Tow Ball:

1. Remove the plug (12) from the receiver (1). The ball is usually in the unlocked state when removed from storage.
2. Ensure the ball mechanism is in the unlocked state (green markings aligned, handwheel slightly separated, red marking visible). If it is locked, pre-tension the mechanism by inserting the key, opening the lock, pulling the handwheel out (arrow → a), and turning it until it stops (arrow → b). The release lever will engage.
3. Insert the tow ball (2) with the stop pin (13) into the receiver (1) from below and push upwards. The locking mechanism engages automatically.
4. Close the lock and always remove the key.

Dismounting the Tow Ball:

1. Hold the tow ball firmly.
2. Pull out the handwheel (5) (arrow → a) and turn it until it stops (arrow → b) to unlock.
3. Remove the tow ball from the receiver. The handwheel will automatically lock in the unlocked position.
4. Store the tow ball safely in the vehicle's luggage compartment, protected from dirt.
5. Insert the plug (12) into the receiver (1).

⚠ Important: Never unlock the hitch when a trailer or load carrier is attached. Always remove the tow ball and insert the plug when driving without a trailer or load carrier, especially if the ball obstructs the view of the license plate or lights.

Maintenance and Care

• Keep the tow ball and receiver clean for proper operation.
• Regularly service the mechanical parts. Treat the lock only with graphite.
• Lubricate bearing points, sliding surfaces, and balls with resin-free grease or oil.
• When cleaning the vehicle with a high-pressure washer, remove the tow ball and insert the plug. Do not expose the tow ball to steam cleaning.
• Repairs and dismantling of the detachable tow ball should only be carried out by the manufacturer.
• Attach the provided information sticker in a visible location near the receiver or inside the luggage compartment.

Keys

The detachable tow ball comes with 2 keys. Please note and keep the key number ???? for future reference or reordering.

[Diagram shows a key and a key number placeholder: ????]