Tow-Trust Towbars
Important: Please read General Notes overleaf before fitting
Issue 4
TM12 MERCEDES
E-class SALOON (W212) 2009> | E-class ESTATE (S212) 2010>
Parts List
| Item | Qty | Description | Item | Qty | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 1 | Crossmember | E | 2 | M16 x 40 Bolts, Nuts & S/P Washers |
| B | 2 | Handed Side Arms | F | 4 | M10 x 45 Bolts & S/P Washers |
| C | 1 | Extension Bar | G | 8 | M10 x 40 Bolts & Nyloc Nuts |
| D | 1 | Flip Up Socket Plate (TTFP LH) | H | 4 | M12 x 40 Bolts & Nyloc Nuts |
| J | 4 | M12 x 40 Bolts & Nyloc Nuts | |||
| K | 4 | 10 x 30 Flat Washers | |||
| L | 8 | 12 x 25 Flat Washers | |||
| M | 16 | 10 x 25 Flat Washers |
Important Advisory
IT IS ADVISABLE TO USE A SEALANT ON MATING FACES, AND AROUND ANY MOUNTING POINTS ON REAR PANEL TO PREVENT ANY WATER DAMAGE TO CHASSIS OR BOOT.
BUMPER REMOVAL:
First remove the boot trim, side panels floor cover and floor supports, remove rear light clusters (not clusters in tailgate). In each wheel arch remove three fixings around arch and one tip fixing each side, four fixings along lower edge, two fixings through rear panel located inside boot, pull bumper tips out then rearward disconnecting any necessary wiring. Remove rear crash beam (Towbar replaces crash beam), carefully remove gaskets from crash beam.
TOWBAR INSTALATION:
- Insert Items B into each correct chassis member and loosely bolt in place using Item F and Item K.
- Line gaskets up with mounting points on the rear panel mark off were they meet Items B and carefully cut around arms. (It is important this is done as neat as possible, also both faces sealed with a water proof sealant as you don't want water damage internal of the chassis members).
- With the gaskets in place bolt Item A to the rear panel using Item G and Item M ensuring gaskets are neatly placed between rear panel and Towbar.
- Using Item H with Item L bolt Item A to Items B.
- Fully tighten all fixings ensuring Towbar is rigid square and secure, replace bumper and boot interior.
- Using Item H with Item L and Item J and Item L bolt Item C and Item D to Item A choosing the correct holes settings for bumper and car variant.
- Using Item E bolt your desired ball bracket (not supplied in this kit) to Item C and fully tighten remaining fixings.
Diagram Description: Towbar Assembly and Installation
The diagram illustrates the underside of a vehicle's rear chassis and bumper area, showing the mounting points for the TM12 towbar system. Key components are depicted:
- TM12 Towbar (A): The main crossmember that attaches to the vehicle's chassis.
- Handed Side Arms (B): These connect the main crossmember to specific points on the vehicle's chassis members.
- Extension Bar (C): Likely used to bridge gaps or provide additional mounting points, possibly for the socket plate.
- Flip Up Socket Plate (D): A mechanism to hold the electrical socket, designed to flip up when not in use.
- Ball Bracket (E): The part that holds the tow ball (not supplied).
- Fasteners: Various bolts (Items F, G, H, J) and washers (Items K, L, M) are shown securing these components. Specific bolt and washer sizes are detailed in the parts list.
- Seal End Plates: Components used to seal the ends of the towbar or chassis members.
- VK: Represents the tow hitch assembly, including the ball mount.
The diagram shows how the towbar assembly (A) is secured to the chassis members (B) using bolts (F, K, H, L) and how the extension bar (C) and socket plate (D) are attached to the main towbar (A) using bolts (H, L, J, L). The tow ball bracket (E) is shown attached to the extension bar (C). The diagram also indicates the use of sealants and the importance of correct torque settings.
Notes:
- Recommended Torque Setting for M12 Grade 10.9 - 139 Nm. (For other Torque Settings see notes overleaf.)
- Nose load limits and vehicle manufacturers trailer / caravan weight limits must be observed.
