Westfalia Automotive Tow Bar Installation and Operating Instructions
This document provides installation and operating instructions for the Westfalia tow bar system designed for the Subaru Impreza (2018 onwards).
Product Identification and Compatibility
Vehicle: Subaru Impreza (2018 onwards)
Tow Bar Part Number: SU44U
Homologation: E11 55R - 01/06 11315 00
D-Value: 8 kN
Max Vertical Load (S): 90 kg
Towing Capacity: Refer to the vehicle's registration document.
Manufacturer: Westfalia-Automotive GmbH, Am Sandberg 45, D-33378 Rheda-Wiedenbrück
Product Reference Numbers: 348 079 600 001, 348 080 600 001, 348 079 691 101-001
Installation and operating instructions are available in multiple languages: German, Czech, Danish, Spanish, French, Finnish, English, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Norwegian, Dutch, Polish, Russian, Swedish.
Technical Specifications and Parts List
Parts List:
- M12x1.75x35 (8.8) bolts: 6x
- M12x1.75x30 (8.8) bolts: 4x
- M10x1.25x30 (8.8) bolts: 4x
- 12.4x40x3 washers: 6x
- 10.4x25x3 washers: 2x
- 12.5x20.5x1 washers: 6x
- 10.5x18x0.9 washers: 2x
- M12 (8.8) nuts: 4x
Assembly Overview: The tow bar system consists of a main frame, side brackets, and a tow ball mechanism. Refer to the exploded view diagram for component identification and assembly sequence.
Important Legal and Safety Information
Users must adhere to national regulations regarding vehicle modifications and approvals. Any alterations or modifications to the tow bar are prohibited and will void the operating license. The tow bar is a safety-critical component and must only be installed by qualified professionals. Improper installation can lead to serious accidents. The German text of these instructions is binding. Subject to change.
Clearance Requirements: Ensure adequate clearance around the tow bar and vehicle chassis as per ECE-R 55 regulations (e.g., minimum 55mm, maximum 45° angles). Refer to specific diagrams for detailed measurements.
Vehicle Weight Limits: Always observe the vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the tow bar's specified load limits.
Installation Steps
Follow these steps carefully for correct installation. Always refer to the diagrams for visual guidance.
Step 1: Preparation
Diagram: Shows the rear of the Subaru Impreza with the trunk open. An arrow indicates access to the mounting area. A trash can icon ?️ suggests removal of components.
Action: Access the mounting points by opening the vehicle's trunk and potentially removing the rear bumper or other body panels as indicated.
Step 2: Bumper Removal (if applicable)
Diagram: Shows the underside of the rear bumper area. Arrows indicate the removal of the bumper. Fasteners are shown being removed.
Action: Remove the vehicle's rear bumper to gain access to the chassis mounting points.
Step 3: Chassis Mounting
Diagram: Shows the vehicle chassis with mounting brackets being attached. Arrows indicate the direction of attachment. Specific fasteners (bolts and washers) are shown.
Action: Attach the tow bar mounting brackets to the vehicle's chassis using the provided hardware. Ensure correct orientation and use of specified bolts and washers.
Step 4: Main Frame Attachment
Diagram: Illustrates attaching the main tow bar frame to the chassis and brackets. Multiple bolts and washers are shown being used.
Action: Secure the main tow bar frame to the chassis and brackets using the specified bolts (e.g., M12x1.75x35, 12.4x40x3, 12.5x20.5x1) and nuts.
Step 5: Tightening and Torqueing
Diagram: Shows the tow bar frame in place, with arrows pointing to bolt locations and torque specifications indicated (e.g., M12x1.75x35 → 95Nm).
Action: Tighten all fasteners to the specified torque values using a torque wrench. For example, M12x1.75x35 bolts should be torqued to 95Nm, and M10x1.25x30 bolts to 52Nm.
Step 6: Tow Ball Assembly
Diagram: Shows the tow ball mechanism being attached to the main tow bar frame. Various bolts, nuts, and washers are depicted.
Action: Assemble and attach the tow ball mechanism to the main tow bar frame, ensuring all components are correctly seated and secured.
Step 7: Final Checks
Diagram: Shows the tow bar mounted on the vehicle. Arrows indicate final bolt tightening and checks.
Action: Perform final checks on all connections and ensure all fasteners are tightened to the correct torque specifications. Verify that the tow bar is securely mounted.
Step 8: Tow Ball Mechanism Operation
Diagram: Close-up of the tow ball mechanism showing insertion and locking. A warning symbol ❗ is present.
Action: Insert the tow ball mechanism into the tow bar receiver. Ensure it locks securely. A gap of approximately 5mm [ruler emoji ?] between the ball and the locking mechanism is acceptable. A gap of 0mm [cross mark emoji ?] or excessive play is not acceptable.
Step 9: Locking and Securing
Diagram: Shows the process of locking the tow ball mechanism, possibly with a key or lever. A 'click' sound indicator ? is shown.
Action: Engage the locking mechanism for the tow ball. Listen for an audible 'click' ? to confirm proper engagement. Ensure the mechanism is fully secured.
Step 10: Tow Ball Detachment
Diagram: Shows the process of unlocking and removing the tow ball mechanism.
Action: To detach the tow ball, unlock the mechanism and remove the ball. Store the tow ball securely when not in use.
Step 11: Maintenance
Diagram: Shows lubrication of the tow ball mechanism with grease and cleaning with a hose.
Action: Regularly lubricate the moving parts of the tow ball mechanism and keep it clean. Refer to specific maintenance intervals.
Usage Guidelines
Towing a Trailer: Ensure the trailer is correctly coupled and the lighting is functional. Observe maximum towing weights specified for both the vehicle and the tow bar.
Carrying Bikes: Use approved bike racks designed to attach to the tow bar. Observe the maximum weight capacity for bike racks (e.g., 60kg for three bikes ???, 30kg for one bike ?).
Usage Intervals: Perform checks at 0 km and 1000 km [circular arrow emoji ?] after installation, and at regular service intervals.
Declaration of Correct Installation
This section is for the installer to complete. It requires details of the tow bar type, vehicle, date of installation, and a signature or stamp from the installing company. It also confirms that the vehicle user has been informed about the use and maintenance of the tow bar system.
