Westfalia Tow Bar Installation Guide for Renault Koleos (2017)
Manufacturer: Westfalia-Automotive GmbH
Part Number: RN118U
Vehicle: Renault Koleos (2017)
Product Overview and Specifications
This document provides essential information for the installation of the Westfalia tow bar for the Renault Koleos 2017 model. It includes technical specifications, safety guidelines, and a step-by-step installation process.
Key Specifications:
- Model: RN118U
- Vehicle Compatibility: Renault Koleos (2017)
- Manufacturer Part Numbers: 316 453 600 001, 316 454 600 001, RN118U, 316453600002
- ECE Approval: E11 55R01/06 11277
- Class and Type of Attachment: A50-X
- D-Value: 10.8 kN
- Max Vertical Load (S): 80 kg
- Towing Capacity: Refer to vehicle registration document.
Important Safety and Legal Information:
- National guidelines concerning official approval of auxiliaries must be observed.
- Any alteration or modification of the towing hitch is prohibited and voids the operating licence.
- The towing hitch is a safety-critical part and must be fitted only by qualified companies. Improper assembly may result in a serious accident hazard.
- Ensure adequate clearance as per ECE R55 regulations (Appendix 7, Figures 25a and 25b).
- Observe vehicle weight ratings and towing capacity as specified in the vehicle's registration document.
- The German text of this instruction is binding.
- Subject to change.
Installation Procedure
Follow these steps carefully for correct installation. Always prioritize safety.
Step 1: Vehicle Preparation
Lift the rear of the vehicle to gain access to the mounting points. The illustration shows the vehicle elevated, with the rear bumper area exposed for installation.
Step 2: Mount Brackets
Attach the mounting brackets to the vehicle's chassis. Use 8 x M12 x 40mm bolts, nuts, and washers. The illustration shows the brackets being attached to the vehicle frame with these fasteners.
Step 3: Attach Tow Bar Main Beam
Connect the main tow bar beam to the previously mounted brackets. Secure using 8 x M12 x 40mm and 8 x M12 x 35mm bolts, nuts, and washers. The illustration depicts the tow bar beam being connected to the brackets with these fasteners.
Step 4: Secure Tow Bar Assembly
Ensure the tow bar assembly is correctly positioned and firmly secured. Use the remaining M12 x 35mm bolts, nuts, and washers. The illustration shows the final securing of the tow bar assembly with these fasteners.
Step 5: Torqueing and Alignment
Tighten all M12 bolts to the specified torque of 80 Nm. Verify the tow bar is level using a spirit level. The illustration shows a torque wrench applying 80 Nm to an M12 bolt and a spirit level checking alignment.
Step 6: Electrical Connector Preparation
Prepare the area for the electrical connector. Ensure correct positioning and clearance. The illustration indicates the electrical connector area preparation with relevant dimensions, such as 130mm, 80mm, and 75mm.
Step 7: Install Tow Ball Neck and Ball
Insert the tow ball neck into the tow bar receiver. Secure the neck using the provided locking mechanism. This typically involves using bolts (10.9 - M12 x 1.75 x 110mm) tightened to 120 Nm. The illustration shows the tow ball neck insertion and locking mechanism, with a close-up of the bolts being torqued to 120 Nm.
Step 8: Final Checks and Usage
Conduct a thorough final inspection of the installation. Confirm all fasteners are tight and the tow bar is securely attached. The illustration shows final checks on the installed tow bar.
Usage Guidelines:
- Break-in Period: Observe a break-in period between 0km and 1000km. The graphic indicates a break-in period with 0km and 1000km markers and rotating arrows.
- Bicycle Carrier Load: Maximum load for bicycle carriers is 60kg or 30kg, depending on the carrier type. Illustrations show bicycle carriers with their respective load limits.
- Vertical Load Limit: The maximum vertical load (S) is specified as ??kg. Consult your vehicle's manual for the exact value.
- Clearance: Maintain required clearance as per ECE R55 regulations. Illustrations depict the necessary clearance requirements.
- Trailer Connection: Ensure correct and secure connection of trailers. Illustrations show correct and incorrect trailer coupling procedures.
ECE R55 Clearance Requirements
Compliance with ECE R55 regulations requires specific clearance around the tow ball coupling. Ensure the following dimensions and angles are met:
- Minimum clearance of 75mm from the rear edge of the tow ball.
- Maximum angle of 30° for lateral clearance.
- Minimum clearance of 55mm from the ground.
- Maximum distance of 250mm from the end of the vehicle.
- Illustrations detail these clearance requirements with dimensions and angles.
Correct Tow Ball Engagement
Proper engagement of the tow ball is critical for safety. Follow these checks:
- Check 1: Ensure approximately 5mm of clearance between the tow ball and the coupling socket when engaged. The illustration shows the tow ball engaged with ~5mm clearance, marked with a green checkmark (✔️).
- Check 2: A clearance of 0mm is incorrect and indicates improper engagement. The illustration shows the tow ball engaged with 0mm clearance, marked with a red cross (❌).
- Check 3: The locking mechanism should engage securely. Listen for a 'click' sound. The illustration shows the locking mechanism engaging with a 'click' sound, marked with a green checkmark (✔️).
- Incorrect Engagement: Avoid situations where the tow ball is not fully seated or the locking mechanism fails to engage. Illustrations show incorrect engagement and locking failures, marked with red crosses (❌).
Declaration of Correct Installation
The installer declares that the tow bar type RN118U has been installed correctly on the vehicle, adhering to all attachment points and manufacturer specifications. The user has been informed about the use and maintenance of the device.