Introduction
This document provides the installation and operating instructions for the Westfalia tow bar system. The original instructions were available in multiple languages, including German, Czech, Danish, Spanish, French, Finnish, English, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Norwegian, Dutch, Polish, Russian, and Swedish. This version consolidates the information primarily in English.
Product Details
| Part Number | 342 198 600 001 |
| Vehicle Compatibility | FIAT Freemont, Dodge Journey |
| Manufacturer | WESTFALIA-Automotive GmbH, Am Sandberg 45, D-33378 Rheda-Wiedenbrück |
| Approval Number | E13 55R - 01 3803 |
| Type | 342 126 |
| Class | A 50-X |
| D-Value | 9.6 kN |
| Max. Vertical Load (S) | 80 kg |
Important Information and Warnings
⚠️ Please read all instructions carefully before installation. The German text of this manual is binding.
General Safety and Regulations
National guidelines concerning the approval of auxiliary equipment must be observed.
Any alteration or modification of the tow bar system is strictly prohibited and will void the operating license and type approval.
Remove any insulating compound or underbody coating from the vehicle's contact surfaces where the tow bar will be mounted.
The tow bar is designed for towing trailers and for attaching load carriers. Any other use is prohibited.
Vehicles equipped with parking assist systems (e.g., acoustic parking sensors) may experience malfunctions after tow bar installation if parts of the tow bar are within the sensor's detection range. In such cases, the detection range must be adjusted, or the parking assist system deactivated. For tow bars with removable or pivoting ball heads, malfunctions are less likely when the ball head is not in the operating position.
The tow bar is a safety-critical component and must only be installed by qualified professionals or specialized workshops. Improper installation poses a severe accident hazard.
Subject to change without notice.
Complaint Procedure
Westfalia products are manufactured with utmost care. If you find a cause for complaint, please contact your contract partner directly. It is essential to quote the 'Charge Number' (also referred to as batch number or lot number), which can be found on the type plate. Complaints cannot be processed without this information.
Parts List
The following parts are included in the kit:
- 2x M12x70 bolts (10.9)
- 4x M12x40 bolts (8.8)
- 8x M12x35 bolts (8.8)
- 10x 12.5x30x3 washers
- 10x 13x24x2.5 washers
- 6x M12 nuts (8)
Refer to the diagrams for specific part identification (e.g., A, B, C, D, E, F).
Installation Steps
Follow these steps for installation. Refer to the diagrams for visual guidance.
Step 1: Vehicle Preparation
Access the rear bumper area of the vehicle. Diagrams show the rear of the vehicle and indicate areas for access.
Step 2: Bumper Removal
The rear bumper cover may need to be removed or modified. A diagram shows the bumper cover being placed into a trash receptacle ?️, indicating removal or disposal of the original part.
Step 3: Mounting Bracket Installation
Attach the mounting brackets (e.g., E, C) to the vehicle's frame or chassis using the provided hardware. Diagrams show the placement and connection of these brackets.
Step 4: Tow Bar Frame Attachment
Mount the main tow bar frame (A) and associated side brackets (D, F) to the vehicle's chassis and previously installed brackets. Use the specified bolts and washers (e.g., 12.5x30x3, M12x35, M12x40, 13x24x2.5).
Step 5: Securing the Tow Bar
Secure the main tow bar (A) and crossbar (D) to the vehicle's mounting points using bolts (e.g., M12x40, M12) and washers (13x24x2.5). Torque specifications are provided: M12x40 bolts to 65 Nm, and M12x35 bolts to 65 Nm.
Step 6: Bumper Re-attachment/Modification
Re-attach or modify the vehicle's bumper cover as necessary to accommodate the installed tow bar. Diagrams show the final positioning.
Step 7: Tow Ball Installation
Attach the tow ball (B) to the tow bar bracket (A). Use the M12x70 bolt and torque it to 95 Nm.
Step 8: Interior Checks
Refer to the vehicle's owner manual ? for any necessary checks or operations within the vehicle's interior, such as parking assist system settings. A diagram shows the vehicle's interior with a book icon.
Clearance Requirements (ECE-R 55)
Ensure adequate clearance around the tow bar system according to Appendix 7, Figures 25a and 25b of the ECE-R 55 regulations. This includes specific angular and dimensional clearances relative to the vehicle's total length and ground.
Key dimensions and considerations include:
- Maximum angles: 45°, 65°, 100°, 30°.
- Minimum clearances: 65mm, 75mm, 140mm, 55mm, 250mm.
- The clearance must be maintained relative to the vehicle's total length and the ground.
- Consideration of the vehicle's gross weight rating is also specified.
Declaration of Correct Installation
The undersigned company declares that the tow bar system of type 342 126 has been installed correctly, in accordance with the attachment points and specifications provided by the vehicle manufacturer.
This declaration applies to the vehicle:
Vehicle Type: FIAT Freemont, Dodge Journey
Functional Type: JF, JC, JC49
Attachment Class/Type: A50-X
Homologation: E13 55 R-01 3803
D-Value: 9.6 kN
Max. Vertical Load (S): 80 kg
Towable Mass: Refer to the vehicle's registration document.
The company also declares that the vehicle user has been informed about the proper usage and maintenance of the tow bar system.
[Stamp and Signature Area]
Date: ..........................
Installer: .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
