Stealth Hitches Installation Instructions

Hitch Specifications

Rack Receiver Kit#: SHR31019

2" Rack Receiver Maximum Payload: 600 LBS

Maximum Tow Rating: 6000 LBS

Maximum Tongue Weight: 600 LBS

Under Vehicle Trimming

Heat Shield: NO

Fascia: NO

Gravel Guard Trimming: YES

[Warning] Read all instruction warnings and labels.

No welding, metal drilling, or visible trimming required.

Parts Supplied with Rack Kit

• Latch Block & Keys
• (2) Bolts 5/8"-11 x 5"
• (2) 5/8" Nylock Nuts
• 2" Rack Receiver
• (6) Plastic Rivets

Tools Required

• 15/16" Open End Wrench
• 18mm Deep Well, 8mm, 10mm, 13mm & 15/16" Sockets
• Ratchet
• Socket Extension
• Torque Wrench
• Flashlight
• Plastic Pry Tools
• Painter's Tape
• Safety Glasses
• 90 Degree Pick

Additional Parts for Tow Kit

• Ball Mount 5" Rise, Short
• Chain Hooks
• (2) 2" Back Receiver (Note: This seems to be a typo in the original document, likely meant to be part of the rack receiver kit or a separate item. Assuming it's a component related to the tow kit connection.)

Additional Tools for Active & Passive Tow Kits

• Tin Snips (X3 Only)
• Dremel Tool (X4 Only)
• File (X4 Only)
• Stripper/Crimping Tool
• Multimeter
• Phillips Head Screwdriver
• Flathead Screwdriver
• Drill & 3/8" Bit
• Silicone
• Razor Knife (Active Only)

Additional Tools for Passive Tow Kit

• T30 Torx (X4 Only)
• Pliers

Installation Overview

Rack Receiver Installation: Use Steps 1-25, & 55-61.

Passive Tow Kit Installation: Use Steps 1-43, & 51-61.

Active Tow Kit Installation: Use Steps 1-33, & 44-61.

[Notice] If installing an ACTIVE tow kit, the vehicle must be programmed before trailer lights will function. See notice on Page 3.

Important Notices & Safety Information

End User Instructions

• These instructions must be given to the end user.
• Stealth products may or may not require a wiring harness.
• The Rack Receiver only product does not require a wiring harness.
• Rack Receiver plus Tow Kit requires a compatible wiring harness (Active or Passive).
• Active Harness: Plugs into vehicle's wiring for computer communication with trailer. May require vehicle reprogramming (approx. 1 week advance scheduling for remote BMW programming service).
• Passive Harness: Independent of vehicle computer. Powered by battery, monitors vehicle lights, and activates trailer lighting.

Installation Note

Instructions primarily cover disassembly. Reassembly requires following steps in reverse order. Ensure all components are replaced and secured.

Important Safety Notice for Installers and Customers

[Warning] Failure to comply with safety information could result in serious injury or death.

• Do not modify the product.
• Installation can be hazardous (combustion, shock, burns, shifting, tool injury). Must be performed by knowledgeable personnel.
• Check for damage or corrosion; do not install over compromised parts.
• Product designed for original vehicle condition; compatibility with modified vehicles not guaranteed.
• Some accessories (e.g., rack receiver) are not rated for towing. Use with proper knowledge.
• Towing without proper knowledge is dangerous. Refer to "The Trailer Handbook: A Guide to Understanding Trailer and Towing Safety" from NATM (www.NATM.com) and vehicle owner's manuals.
• Do not exceed vehicle, hitch, or trailer ratings.
• Visually inspect hitch before each use. Check connections, cracks, or damage. Do not use if damaged.
• Stealth hitches are not compatible with weight distribution or sway control products.

Pre-Installation Vehicle Checks

[Notice] Hitch installation requires removal of vehicle parts and interaction with vehicular electronics. Before installation, check body panel condition and note any misalignments. Verify vehicle electronic functions (headlights, taillights, turn signals, cameras, backup sensors, PDC, foot-activated cargo access). Installer is responsible for restoring vehicle fit and function.

[Notice] Active wiring harness installation requires vehicle programming. Contact Code My Car (585-496-4648) for arrangements (allow 1 week). Programming requires vehicle connection to computer and internet. A programming code is affixed to the control module and programming cord.

Gain Access to Mounting Area

Step 1-3: Accessing Rear of Taillights (X3 Only)

1. Open vehicle cargo area and remove driver/passenger side panels for access to rear of taillights.
2. Next to the taillight, slide plastic cover upward to remove. [Notice] Use a plastic pry tool to remove plastic rivet before sliding cover upward.
3. Remove (2) nuts attaching the taillight to the vehicle using a [10mm socket].

Step 4-5: Unplugging Taillight Wiring (X3 Only)

1. Locate and remove the third screw holding the taillight inside the vehicle using a [10mm socket].
2. Locate and unplug taillight wiring by pushing down on the "release clip" then pulling outward.

Step 6-7: Removing Rear Reflector (2021 & Older Models)

1. Remove rear reflector. The center clip may be accessible from underneath; push upwards. If not, use a [plastic pry tool] starting from the center and working outwards.
2. A screw will be exposed after reflector removal. Use a [socket] to remove it. Repeat steps 2-7 on the other side.

Step 8: Removing Rear Wheel Well Rivets

Locate rivets inside rear wheel wells. Use a [90 degree pick] or [pry tool] to remove (3) most rearward plastic rivets securing the wheel well trim. [Note] Do not damage trim. Replacement rivets are supplied.

2022 M-sport and M40i Models Only: Use an [8mm socket] to remove the screw holding the bottom of the wheel well trim.

Step 9: Releasing Wheel Well Trim Clips

To partially remove rear wheel well trim, release (3) clips. Apply outward pressure, starting from the bottom clip. Push down on clips to disconnect. Use [plastic pry tools] for difficult clips.

Step 10: Removing Fascia Screws

Behind the rear wheel well trim, (2) screws hold the fascia. Pull trim away to expose screws. Use a [socket] to remove them. Repeat steps 8-10 on the other side. [Note] Cover trim with painter's tape to prevent scratches during removal/replacement.

Step 11: Removing Fascia Screw (X3 Only)

Use a [socket] to remove the screw holding the fascia that was exposed by removing the taillight.

Step 12-14: Removing Gravel Guard & Fascia Screws (X3 Only)

1. Underneath the vehicle, use a [socket] to remove (10) screws from the gravel guard.
2. Remove (4) screws from the rear edge of the fascia.
3. Use a [socket] to remove (6) screws from the outer edges of the fascia.

Step 15-17: Removing Fascia & Gravel Guard (X4 Only)

1. Underneath the vehicle, use a [socket] to remove (7) screws from the edges of the fascia.
2. Remove (4) nuts to detach the gravel guard.
3. Pull gravel guard down to remove.

Step 18: Releasing Fascia Clips

The fascia is clipped to the vehicle body behind the wheel wells. Pull outward to expose the first clip. Use a [plastic pry tool] to push down on the clip and disconnect. Continue pulling outward and disconnecting clips until all are released. Repeat on the other side. [Note] X3 will look slightly different.

Step 19: Removing Fascia and PDC Sensor Plug

This step requires a partner. Pull fascia rearward to access the PDC sensor plug on the passenger side. Use a [90 degree pick] to open the clip and unplug the PDC sensor plug. Remove the fascia completely. [Notice] Carefully remove and place the fascia on a blanket or pad.

Step 20: Removing Exhaust Brackets (X3 Only)

Locate the two exhaust brackets under the rear of the vehicle, above the muffler. Use a [socket] to remove (1) exhaust bracket nut on each side.

Step 21: Removing Plastic Insert Rivets

Remove (6) plastic rivets from the plastic insert securing it to the factory reinforcement beam. Do not disconnect wires connected to the insert. Save rivets for reinstallation.

Install Stealth Hitch Frame

Step 22: Removing Factory Reinforcement Beam

Remove (4) nuts from the factory reinforcement beam and remove the beam. Save the beam and nuts for reinstallation. [Notice] For X4 M40i (2016-2018), the reinforcement beam is not reinstalled.

Step 23: Installing Hitch Frame and Reinforcement Beam

Install the Stealth hitch frame and factory reinforcement beam onto the vehicle studs using the saved (4) nuts. Center the hitch frame and beam before tightening. Use a [torque wrench] to tighten nuts to 85 ft.-lbs.

Step 24: Reinstalling Plastic Insert

Reinstall the plastic insert secured to the factory reinforcement beam using the saved (6) rivets.

Mount Latch Block

Step 25: Mounting Latch Block

Installation varies by kit:

• Rack Receiver Kit: Install latch block with (2) 5/8"-11 x 5" bolts and (2) 5/8" nylock nuts. Tighten each bolt to 150 ft.-lbs.
• Tow Kit: Retrieve Z-bracket (X3) or C-bracket (X4) from wiring harness kit box. Install latch block, (2) chain hooks, and bracket with (2) 5/8"-11 x 5" bolts and (2) 5/8" nylock nuts. Tighten each bolt to 150 ft.-lbs.

[Notice] Keys are packaged within the latch block; remove and store them safely.

[Stop] If installing a Rack Receiver Kit, skip to Step 55. If installing a Tow Kit, continue to Step 26.

Install Wiring Kit

Step 26: Review Wiring Kit Contents

Locate the wiring kit box and review contents against the list for missing components.

Passive Wiring Kit Overview

Uses a control module powered by the vehicle's battery and taillight signals to manage trailer lighting. Module connects to battery and taillight wiring.

Active Wiring Kit Overview

Uses a BMW computer control module to manage trailer lighting. Requires vehicle programming before functional. Module connects via a wire harness to the vehicle's electronic systems.

[Notice] Do not allow electrical system to become disconnected from power or ground, as this may interrupt electrical systems.

Passive Wiring Kit Box Items

Active Wiring Kit Box Items

Step 27-30: Accessing Cargo Area Components (X4 Only)

1. Inside the rear cargo area, remove both rear side cargo panels. Remove the plastic cargo holder on the passenger side by removing (2) plastic rivets with a [90 degree pick]. Use a [T30 Torx] to remove (1) screw. [Note] Save rivets for reinstallation.
2. Lift up the cargo area floor panel.
3. In the floor of the rear cargo area, remove (2) plastic screws with a [flathead screwdriver].
4. Remove (4) plastic rivets under the floor panel using a [90 degree pick]. [Note] X3 will look slightly different.

Step 31-33: Accessing Battery Compartment and Fascia Support (X4 & X3)

1. Lift up to gain access to the battery compartment. [Note] X3 will look slightly different.
2. Some models have insulation behind the taillight; fold it back to access the rear taillight wiring harness.
3. X3 Only: Remove (4) nuts holding the plastic fascia support bracket on the passenger side of the vehicle using a [10mm socket].

[Stop] If installing an ACTIVE wiring harness, skip to Step 44. If installing a PASSIVE wiring harness, continue to Step 34.

Install Passive Wiring Kit

Step 34: Drilling Grommet

Locate the wiring grommet on the passenger side rear of the vehicle. Use a [3/8" drill bit] to drill a hole through the grommet, ensuring not to damage the harness. Use the factory dimple location in the grommet. [Notice] Confirm nothing inside the vehicle behind the grommet can be damaged.

Step 35: Placing Control Module

Place the control module in the passenger side cargo area. Feed output wires through the grommet from inside to the outside of the vehicle.

Step 36: Connecting Input Wires

Attach input side wires to the vehicle wiring. Route the yellow wire to the driver side. Use a clamp-on connector to attach the yellow wire to the left turn signal wire behind the taillight. [Note] Vehicles may have different wire colors; verify circuits with a multimeter.

Step 37: Connecting Taillight Wires

Inside the passenger side compartment, use clamp-on connectors to connect to wires behind the taillight.

Step 38: Grounding Wire Connection (X3 Only)

Locate the ground stud in the rear passenger side cargo area. Trim white ground wire to reach the stud. Crimp a supplied fork terminal to the ground wire. Loosen the ground stud using a [10mm socket] and secure the fork terminal. [Notice] Loosen just enough to install the terminal to avoid losing vehicle ground.

Step 39: Grounding Wire Connection (X4 Only)

Trim white ground wire to reach the negative battery terminal (-). Crimp a supplied fork terminal to the ground wire. Connect the ground wire to the negative battery terminal. Replace the nut and tighten using a [10mm socket]. [Notice] Do not allow vehicle wiring to lose ground contact.

Step 40: Connecting Power Wire

Locate the fuse holder. Remove the fuse. Crimp the fuse holder lead to the black power wire and connect to the positive battery terminal (+).

Wire 7-Way Plug

Step 41: Assembling 7-Way Housing

Locate the 7-way housing. Use a [screwdriver] to loosen (2) screws and remove the terminal block. Place the mounting bracket onto the housing. Use a [screwdriver] to loosen the set screw at the bottom. Route output side wires through the housing.

[Please follow instructions below very carefully. Incorrect wiring of the 7-way receptacle causes the vast majority of wiring problems.]

Step 42: Connecting 7-Way Wires

Locate the slot keyway. Starting from the keyway clockwise, attach wires as follows:

• Blue
• Green
• Black
• Brown
• Yellow
• White
• Purple (middle)

[Notice] Markings on the receptacle may not match the correct wire configuration. Disregard markings and follow these instructions.

Step 43: Finalizing 7-Way Plug

Reassemble the 7-way receptacle. Replace the 20 Amp fuse into the fuse holder near the battery.

[Stop] Skip to Step 51 to complete installation.

Install Active Wiring Kit

Step 44: Drilling Grommet

Locate wiring grommet on passenger side rear of vehicle. Use a [3/8" drill bit] to drill a hole through the grommet, ensuring not to damage the harness. Use the factory dimple location. [Notice] Confirm nothing inside the vehicle behind the grommet can be damaged.

Step 45: Routing Harness Through Grommet

After drilling, remove the grommet and cut a slit from the drilled hole to the outer edge. Locate the BMW wiring harness. Pass the output plugs through the hole where the grommet was seated. Push the harness wire into the slit and replace the grommet.

Step 46: Connecting 7-Way Connector Cable

Locate the 7-way connector cable. Plug the two square plugs from the 7-way connector into the BMW wiring harness.

Step 47: Grounding Connection

Locate the ground stud in the rear passenger side cargo area and the grounding ring on the BMW wiring harness. Carefully remove the ground stud, keeping wires in contact. Place the ground ring connector over the stud. Replace the nut and tighten. [Notice] Do not allow vehicle wiring to lose ground contact.

Step 48: Connecting BMW Trailer Harness

Plug the BMW trailer harness into the vehicle harness plug on the passenger side.

Step 49: Connecting Control Module

Locate the BMW control module. Plug the (24) pin connector into the module and lock it. Plug the (6) pin and (10) pin connectors into the module in the next two slots.

Step 50: Installing Control Module

Insert the control module into the slot shown in the fuse panel.

Test 7-Way Harness Wiring

Step 51: Testing Connections

Test wiring to ensure proper connection and function. For passive harness, replace the 20 Amp fuse. [Notice] Active harness installations may require programming before testing. Multimeter or LED testers may not work; vehicles may need to "sense" current. Use an incandescent light tester or trailer after programming.

[Note] Taillights need to be temporarily plugged in during testing.

• Connect multimeter negative probe to the ground blade on the 7-way receptacle.
• Connect multimeter positive probe to the power blade and check for 12 volts.
• Move positive probe to the left turn blade; check for 12 volts when left turn blinker is active (should pulse).
• Move positive probe to the right turn blade; check for 12 volts when right turn blinker is active (should pulse).
• Move positive probe to the marker/taillights; check for 12 volts constant with vehicle lights on.
• With brake depressed, move positive probe to left and right turn blades; check for 12 volts constant.

Attach 7-Way Harness Wiring

Step 52: Mounting Bracket and Housing

Attach the mounting bracket and 7-way housing to the Stealth hitch frame. Secure harness with cable ties.

Step 53: Securing Wiring

Secure all wires and components with remaining cable ties so they are not loose and do not interfere with fascia replacement. Wiring should not be visible after reassembly.

Step 54: Waterproofing and Module Securing

Waterproof the grommet with silicone. If installing passive wiring kit, use provided adhesive foam strips to secure the control module to an inside body panel.

Cut Access Hole in Gravel Guard

Step 55: Cutting Gravel Guard (X3 Only)

Cut out the gravel guard with [tin snips] as shown.

X3 Rack Receiver Kit Cutout: 10-1/2" total width.

X3 Tow Kit (Passive and Active) Cutout: 14" total width.

Step 56: Cutting Gravel Guard (X4 Only)

Cut out the gravel guard with a [Dremel tool]. Use a [file] to smooth the cut.

• Rack receiver kit: Cut right side of center line to 6", making cutout a total of 13" wide.
• Tow kit: Cut right side of center line to 9", making cutout a total of 16" wide.

Reinstall Vehicle Components

Step 57: Replacing Fascia Support Bracket (X3 Only)

Replace the plastic fascia support bracket removed in Step 33 using a [10mm socket] to replace (4) nuts.

Step 58: Reinstalling Panels (Tow Kit)

If installing the tow kit, reinstall side panels, cargo holder, and floor panel in reverse order (refer to Steps 27-32).

Step 59: Reattaching Fascia and Components

Reattach and secure the fascia, taillights, and other vehicle components in reverse order (refer to Steps 1-21). [Notice] Remember to plug in the sensor plug (Step 19) before reinstalling the fascia. [Note] Replace plastic rivets in the wheel well with supplied rivets (see Step 8).

Final Vehicle Examination

Step 60: Body Panel and Electronic Checks

Examine body panels for pre-installation condition. Test vehicle electronic functions and correct any inconsistencies.

Step 61: Hitch Component Verification

• Verify lock works correctly: Push in safety lock on latch block, then unlock with key. Lock should slide back out.
• Verify accessory installation: Prepare latching mechanism (turn handle clockwise). Firmly insert accessory "post" into latch block until handle releases. Push in safety locking pin until fully engaged. Use key to release pin. Rotate handle clockwise to release accessory.
• Verify no accessories contact the vehicle body.

Product Use and Maintenance

[Notice] If installed by a professional, the installer is responsible for training the end user.

• Accessory Installation Procedure: Follow steps in Step 61.
• Never use any accessory with the safety lock disengaged. A fully engaged safety locking pin confirms proper latching.
• Never use the rack receiver for towing; it is for payload carrying products only (bike racks, luggage racks).
• Before each use, apply a light coating of lithium-based grease to the accessory post.
• Before each use, inspect the hitch for secure bolted connections and absence of cracks or damage. Do not tow if damaged.
• Remove Stealth accessories from the latch block after each use. Do not leave accessories plugged in for extended periods.