Product Overview
This document provides installation and operating instructions for the Westfalia Automotive tow bar system designed for the Audi E-Tron (GEN) model, manufactured from September 2018 onwards. The tow bar is a safety-critical component and must be installed by qualified professionals.
Technical Specifications
Part Numbers
- Part No: 305 600 600 001
- Alternative Part No: 305 600 600 002
- Part No for Ball Neck: 305 600 691 102-001
Approvals and Ratings
- Approval No: E11 55R01/07 12126
- Coupling Class: A 50-X
- D-Value: 11.4 kN (max)
- Nose Weight (S): 135 kg (max)
- Tow Bar Weight: 17.0 kg
Hardware Included
- 4 x M12 x 35mm (8.8) bolts
- 4 x M12 x 30mm bolts
- 1 x Neck Guide component
Torque Specifications
| Bolt Size | Grade | Torque (Nm) |
|---|---|---|
| M6 | 8.8 | 10 |
| M8 | 8.8 | 24 |
| M10 | 8.8 | 48 |
| M12 | 8.8 | 83 |
| M14 | 8.8 | 132 |
| M16 | 8.8 | 200 |
| M8 | 10.9 | 34 |
| M10 | 10.9 | 67 |
| M12 | 10.9 | 117 |
Important Safety Information
General Prohibitions: Any modifications or alterations to the tow bar system are strictly prohibited and will void the operating license and type approval.
Installation: This is a safety-critical component and must be installed exclusively by qualified and authorized companies or workshops. Improper installation can lead to serious accidents. The German text of these instructions is legally binding.
Vehicle Preparation: Remove any insulating material or underbody protection from the vehicle's contact surfaces where the tow bar will be mounted.
Intended Use: The tow bar is designed for towing trailers and carrying loads using carriers. Any other use is prohibited.
Parking System Interference: Vehicles equipped with parking assistance systems may experience malfunctions after tow bar installation. This can occur if parts of the tow bar (e.g., ball neck) are within the sensor's detection range. Adjust the sensing range or deactivate the parking system if necessary. Removable or pivoting ball necks are less likely to cause interference when not in the operating position.
Clearance Requirements: Ensure adequate clearance as per ECE-R 55 regulations (Appendix 7, Figures 25a & 25b). This includes specific vertical and horizontal clearances around the tow ball and vehicle body.
Weight Limits: Adhere to the specified D-Value (11.4 kN) and maximum nose weight (S) of 135 kg.
Installation Steps
Step 1: Vehicle Preparation and Trim Removal
The installation begins with preparing the vehicle's rear. This typically involves removing specific trim panels or bumper sections to gain access to the chassis mounting points. Refer to the vehicle manufacturer's guidelines for proper removal procedures to avoid damage.
Visual Description: Diagrams show hands carefully removing sections of the rear bumper or wheel arch liner, indicated by red arrows (➡️).
Step 2: Accessing Mounting Points
After removing exterior panels, the designated mounting locations on the vehicle's chassis are exposed. These are typically pre-drilled holes or reinforced areas designed for tow bar attachment.
Visual Description: Illustrations show the boot interior and the chassis area, highlighting mounting points. Red arrows (➡️) indicate access or removal of covers.
Step 3: Mounting the Tow Bar Frame
The main tow bar frame is positioned against the vehicle's chassis. It is secured using the provided bolts (e.g., M12 x 35mm and M12 x 30mm). Ensure all bolts are correctly aligned with the chassis mounting points.
Visual Description: Illustrations show the main tow bar structure being aligned with the vehicle chassis and bolts ( bolts) being inserted.
Step 4: Attaching the Ball Neck
The ball neck assembly, which holds the tow ball, is attached to the main tow bar frame. This often involves specific bolts and a locking mechanism.
Visual Description: Diagrams show the ball neck being fitted and secured to the tow bar frame using bolts ( bolts).
Step 5: Securing the Ball Neck and Tightening Bolts
All mounting bolts, including those for the ball neck, must be tightened to the specified torque values. Use a torque wrench for accuracy. For M12 bolts with grade 8.8, a torque of 83 Nm is often required. Other bolts may have different torque specifications (refer to the table).
Visual Description: A diagram shows a torque wrench being used on a bolt, with a label indicating "M12 - 83 Nm". Another diagram shows a level ( ?️ ) being used to check alignment.
Step 6: Checking Clearance and Final Assembly
Verify that the installed tow bar meets the required clearance specifications as per ECE-R 55. Ensure the tow ball mechanism operates correctly, including any locking or release functions.
Visual Description: Diagrams illustrate checking clearances around the tow ball and vehicle body. Another shows the process of inserting and locking the tow ball, often with an audible 'click' indicating correct engagement. A green checkmark (✔️) indicates correct operation, while a red cross (❌) indicates incorrect operation.
Step 7: Re-attaching Trim Panels
Once the tow bar is securely installed and all checks are complete, the removed trim panels or bumper sections are re-fitted to the vehicle.
Visual Description: Similar to Step 1, diagrams show trim panels being re-attached with red arrows (➡️) indicating the direction.
Step 8: Tow Ball Attachment and Detachment
The tow ball can be attached and detached from the neck. This typically involves inserting the ball neck into the socket and engaging a locking lever or mechanism. Ensure the mechanism is fully locked before use. A green checkmark (✔️) indicates correct engagement, while a red cross (❌) indicates incorrect or unsafe engagement.
Visual Description: Multiple diagrams show the sequence of inserting the ball neck, engaging the locking lever, and confirming the lock. The "Neck Guide" component is shown. Some diagrams illustrate the ball neck being stored when not in use.
Step 9: Operation and Storage
The tow ball mechanism is designed for ease of use. To attach, insert the ball into the socket and activate the locking mechanism until it clicks into place. To detach, release the locking mechanism. Store the tow ball in a protected location, such as the provided bag, when not attached to the vehicle.
Visual Description: Illustrations show the tow ball being inserted, locked (with "click" confirmation), and then stored in a protective bag ( ?️ ).
Important Notes
Note: Visual representations may vary slightly depending on the specific vehicle configuration.
