Tow-Trust Towbars - TBM915 Installation Guide
Important: Please read General Notes overleaf before fitting
Issue 12
TBM915 BMW X5 (E70) 2007 – 2013 / X5 (F15) 2013> / X6 (E71) 2008–2014 / X6 (F16) 2014>
| Item | Qty | Description | Item | Qty | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 1 | Crossmember | D | 2 | M16 x 50 Bolts, Nuts & S/P Washers |
| B | 1 | Coupling Spacer | E | 1 | M12 x 100 Grade 10.9 Bolts & Nyloc Nut |
| C | 1 | Extension bar | F | 4 | 12 x 25 Flat Washers |
| G | 8 | 12 x 40 Flat Washers | |||
| H | 4 | M12 Bolt Caps | |||
| J | 1 | Socket Plate 1 | |||
| K | 6 | Large Plastic Rivets | |||
| L | 1 | M12 x 110 Grade 10.9 Bolt & Nyloc Nut | |||
| M | 2 | 6mm Spacer Plates |
BUMPER REMOVAL:
- Remove the rear light clusters (two fixings found inside boot behind removable panels) this will reveal one bumper fixing below each light. Remove the reflectors (one steel clip) this will reveal one bumper fixing behind. Remove three fixings from each wheel arch, peel back wheel arch trim to reveal one more fixing either side, remove six fixings along the bumper lower edge. Disconnect any necessary wiring looms and starting at the bumper tips remove the rear bumper from the vehicle body. Note: X5 (E70) & X6 (F16) Towbar can be fitted by just removing the lower skirt.
- Remove bumper beam and retain original fixings.
TOWBAR INSTALLATION:
- X6 (E71): Place item A in line with Towbar mounting points and mark the plastic on the rear panel then trim the plastic so item A can bolt up flush.
- X5 (E70) / X5 (F15) / X6 (F16): Using original fixings and Item G bolt Item A to the rear panel. NOTE: Some Vehicles require Item M between the rear panel and the Towbar to give extra clearance along the top edge of Item A and the inner plastic bumper support.
- As a precaution always seal around each end plate of the Towbar to prevent water damage.
- Fully tighten all fixings and ensure the Towbar is rigid, square and secure.
- Cut a section centrally from the lower edge of the bumper skirt X5 (E70) 75mm Wide x 65mm Deep. X6: See Sketch. NOTE: X5 (F15) & X6 (F16) Do not require a bumper cut.
- Refit bumper using Item K around each wheel arch. Refit light clusters.
- Using Item E with Item F and Item L with Item F bolt Item C and Item J to Item A and fully tighten.
- Fit bolt caps (Item H) onto Item E and Item L.
- Using Item D bolt your desired ball bracket (not supplied in this kit) and Item B and fully tighten.
Diagram:
The diagram shows the towbar components and their placement on the vehicle. Key items include the crossmember (A), coupling spacer (B), extension bar (C), various bolts and washers (D, E, F, G, H, L, M), and socket plate (J). The diagram illustrates the bumper cut required for the X6 (E71) model, indicating dimensions of 75mm width and 65mm depth. It also shows the location of original fixings and the towbar components being attached to the vehicle frame.
Notes:
- Recommended Torque Setting for M12 Grade 10.9 -130 Nm. (For other Torque Settings see notes overleaf.)
- Nose load limits and vehicle manufacturers trailer / caravan weight limits must be observed.
