Westfalia Automotive Tow Hitch Installation and Operating Manual
For BMW iX3 (G08) | Model Year: 09/2020 -
Product Overview
This document provides detailed instructions for the installation and operation of the Westfalia Automotive tow hitch system for the BMW iX3 (G08) vehicle, manufactured from September 2020 onwards. It includes essential safety information, technical specifications, and step-by-step guidance to ensure correct and safe usage.
Product Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 303 513 600 001 |
| Alternative Part Number | 303513600002 |
| Vehicle Model | BMW iX3 (G08) |
| Approval Number | E11 55R01/07 12120 |
| Coupling Class | A 50-X |
| D-Value (max) | 5.8 kN |
| Nose Weight (S) (max) | 75 kg |
| Weight of Tow Hitch | 15.2 kg |
| Manufacturing Date | 09/2020 |
Safety and Legal Information
General Regulations: National guidelines concerning the approval of auxiliary equipment must be observed. Any alteration or modification of the tow hitch is strictly prohibited and will void the operating license. The German text of these instructions is legally binding.
Installation Requirements:
- Remove any insulating compound or underbody coating from the vehicle's contact surfaces where the tow hitch will be mounted.
- The tow hitch is a safety-critical component and must be installed exclusively by qualified professionals or authorized workshops. Improper assembly can lead to serious accident hazards.
Intended Use: The tow hitch is designed for towing trailers and for attaching load carriers. Any other use is prohibited.
Parking Assistance Systems: Vehicles equipped with parking assistance systems may experience malfunctions after tow hitch installation, as components like the tow ball may interfere with sensors. Adjust the sensor range or disable the parking assistance system if necessary. This is less likely with removable or pivoting tow balls when not in the operating position.
Disclaimer: Westfalia Automotive reserves the right to make changes to this product and documentation. Subject to change.
Required Tools and Parts
Tools:
- Torque wrench (adjustable range 0-220 Nm) ?️
- Measurement tools (e.g., caliper, ruler) ?
- Socket wrenches and drivers (appropriate sizes, e.g., 10-24 mm) ?
- Basic hand tools (e.g., screwdrivers, pliers) ?
Included Components:
The tow hitch kit includes various fasteners and components. Refer to the diagrams for specific part identification. Key fasteners include:
- M6 x 16 x 1.0 (8.8) bolts
- M6 bolts
- M12 (8.8) bolts
- M6 x 16 (8.8) bolts
- Specific brackets and the tow ball assembly.
Installation Instructions
Important Note: Follow these steps carefully. Refer to the diagrams for visual guidance.
Step 1: Vehicle Preparation
Access the rear of the vehicle. This may involve removing rear bumper trim or specific panels to expose the mounting points on the vehicle's chassis. Diagrams show the removal of rear lights and bumper sections to gain access.
Diagram showing the rear of the BMW iX3 with indicated areas for trim removal to access mounting points. Step 2: Mounting the Main Tow Bar Frame
Attach the main structural frame of the tow hitch to the designated mounting points on the vehicle's chassis. Secure it using the provided M12 (8.8) bolts and other specified fasteners. Ensure all connections are snug before proceeding.
Diagram illustrating the attachment of the main tow bar frame to the vehicle's rear chassis, using multiple M12 bolts. Step 3: Attaching the Hitch Bracket
Install the hitch bracket onto the main tow bar frame. This bracket will hold the tow ball. Use the specified M6 and M12 bolts. Ensure correct orientation and secure tightly.
Diagram showing the hitch bracket being attached to the main tow bar frame using M6 and M12 bolts. Step 4: Securing Components
Continue attaching any intermediate brackets or support structures as shown in the diagrams, using the appropriate M6 x 16 (8.8) bolts and ensuring all parts are correctly aligned.
Diagram detailing the attachment of additional support brackets using M6 x 16 (8.8) bolts. Step 5: Installing the Tow Ball Assembly
Mount the tow ball assembly onto the hitch bracket. This typically involves inserting the ball mechanism and securing it with locking pins or bolts. Diagrams show the tow ball unit being fitted and locked into place.
Diagram showing the tow ball assembly being installed onto the hitch bracket and secured. Step 6: Electrical Connector Housing
Attach the housing for the electrical connector (for trailer lights) to the tow hitch assembly. This is usually a plastic bracket that clips or screws into place.
Diagram showing the attachment of the electrical connector housing to the tow hitch. Step 7: Final Assembly and Checks
Reinstall any removed bumper trim or panels. Ensure all fasteners are tightened to the specified torque values. For example, M12 bolts should be torqued to 83 Nm, and M6 bolts to 10 Nm. Perform a visual inspection to confirm all parts are securely fitted and aligned.
Diagram showing the final assembly of the tow hitch and vehicle components, with torque specifications indicated for M12 and M6 bolts. Step 8: Undercarriage Shielding
If applicable, modify or reinstall any undercarriage shielding that may have been removed or requires adjustment due to the tow hitch installation. Diagrams show the undercarriage shield and areas that might need modification.
Diagram illustrating the undercarriage shield and potential areas requiring modification or reinstallation. Step 9: Reassembly of Rear Trim
Complete the reassembly of the rear bumper and trim panels. Ensure all clips and fasteners are correctly reinserted. The final appearance should be as close to the original as possible, with the tow hitch discreetly integrated.
Diagram showing the reassembly of the rear bumper trim and final installation view.
Operation and Maintenance
Tow Ball Operation:
The tow ball assembly features a locking mechanism for secure attachment and detachment. Follow these steps:
- Attaching the Tow Ball: Insert the tow ball into the socket on the hitch bracket. Ensure it is correctly oriented.
- Locking Mechanism: Operate the lever or handle to lock the tow ball into place. A visual indicator (e.g., green mark) and an audible 'click' confirm secure locking. Ensure the locking mechanism is fully engaged. A gap of approximately 5 mm between the ball and the socket is normal when locked; a gap of 0 mm or excessive play indicates an improper fit or worn part.
- Detaching the Tow Ball: Release the locking mechanism (e.g., by turning a key or operating a lever) and pull the tow ball out of the socket.
Important Checks:
- Always check that the tow ball is securely locked before towing.
- Ensure the locking mechanism is engaged and any safety clips are in place.
Maintenance:
- Keep the tow ball and socket clean and free from dirt and debris.
- Periodically lubricate the locking mechanism and moving parts with a suitable grease.
- Inspect the tow hitch and ball for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.
- Refer to the diagrams for specific lubrication points. Avoid using grease on the trailer's coupling mechanism itself, as this can interfere with its operation.
Technical Data and Clearance Requirements
Clearance Requirements:
Ensure adequate clearance around the tow hitch as specified by the ECE-R 55 regulations. This includes maintaining specific distances from vehicle components and ensuring freedom of movement. Diagrams illustrate these clearance zones, including maximum angles and distances.
Vehicle Weight Ratings:
The towing capacity of the vehicle is determined by its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the trailer's weight. The D-Value (5.8 kN) and Nose Weight (75 kg) are critical parameters for safe towing. The formula for calculating the D-Value is provided: D = (T x C) / (T + C) x 0.00981, where T is the maximum permissible mass of the towing vehicle and C is the maximum permissible mass of the trailer.
Vehicle Weight Rating Definitions:
- * At gross vehicle weight rating (GB)
- * Bei zulässigem Gesamtgewicht des Fahrzeuges (DE)
- * Pour poids total en charge autorisé du véhicule (FR)
- * Con peso total autorizado del vehículo (ES)
- * Vid fordonets tillåtna totalvikt (SV)
- And other language equivalents are provided.
Declaration of Correct Installation
A declaration form is provided for the installer to confirm that the tow hitch has been installed correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions and the vehicle's attachment points. This declaration includes details of the tow hitch type, vehicle, and installation date, and must be signed by the installer and the vehicle owner.
