EUFAB PREMIUM Bicycle Carrier

Introduction and Safety Information

This manual provides instructions for the safe and correct assembly, use, and maintenance of the EUFAB PREMIUM bicycle carrier. It is available in multiple languages, including German (D), English (GB), French (FR), Italian (IT), Dutch (NL), Czech (CZ), and Spanish (E).

About This Manual

This manual is designed to assist with the proper and safe assembly of the PREMIUM 2, PREMIUM 2 Plus, and PREMIUM 3 bicycle carriers. It is essential that all individuals involved in mounting, cleaning, or disposing of the carrier read and understand its contents. Keep this manual readily accessible. If the carrier is lent or sold, this manual must be passed on.

Intended Use

The EUFAB PREMIUM carrier is designed for transporting a maximum of two bicycles. It must only be mounted on towbars that meet the specified conditions outlined in the 'Conditions for Towbar Coupling' section. The maximum load capacity must not be exceeded. Adhering to all instructions, especially safety guidelines, is crucial for intended use. Any other use is considered non-conforming and may lead to material damage or personal injury. EAL GmbH is not liable for damages resulting from non-conforming use.

Safety Categories

Safety instructions are categorized as follows:

• WARNING! [!] Indicates potential severe injury or death if instructions are not followed.
• CAUTION! [!] Indicates potential minor injury or damage to property if instructions are not followed.
• ATTENTION! [!] Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that could result in damage to the product or nearby objects if not avoided.
• INSTRUCTION! [i] Provides helpful tips for easier handling, assembly, or better understanding.

Always read and follow the safety instructions provided.

Technical Data and Specifications

Volume of Delivery

The package typically includes:

• A: Bicycle carrier
• B: 2 Keys
• C: 2 safety straps for front wheels (PREMIUM 2) / 3 safety straps (PREMIUM 3)
• D: 1 frame safety strap
• E: Storage bag

Technical Specifications

The maximum load capacity of the carrier and the permissible support load of the towbar must not be exceeded. The total permissible weight and axle load of the vehicle must also not be exceeded by the carrier and its load.

Examples for Load Capacities

PREMIUM 3 Examples

PREMIUM 2 / PREMIUM 2 PLUS Examples

Conditions for Towbar Coupling

WARNING! [!] Risk of personal injury due to possible towbar coupling failure. Never mount the carrier on aluminum, light metal, or plastic couplings. The towbar hitch must be approved. The ball and hitch bar must be forged in one piece. Mount the carrier only on couplings made of St52-3 steel, GGG52 cast iron, or higher quality materials. Hitch bars made of GGG40 are not suitable. The 'D' value of the towbar hitch must be at least 7.6 kN. Some carriers are manufactured by Westfalia for specific vehicles (e.g., Audi A4, A6, A8). Always check the coupling manufacturer's specifications on your vehicle's data plate. Consult the manufacturer if unsure.

Mounting and Operation

General Mounting Precautions

WARNING! [!] Failure to follow mounting instructions can lead to personal injury or material damage. If unsure about mounting, consult your retailer or the manufacturer. Neither the manufacturer nor the retailer is liable for damages due to improper use or incorrect assembly. Regularly check the carrier and its load; you are responsible for any damage. [i] This carrier has European type approval, which must be carried by the user. [i] When driving with the carrier mounted, legal regulations and instructions for transporting goods apply to your vehicle.

WARNING! [!] Driving with the carrier can alter vehicle handling. Adjust your driving speed accordingly. Do not exceed 130 km/h. Avoid sudden steering movements. Be aware that your vehicle is longer than usual.

WARNING! [!] Risk of losing bicycles due to unsecured straps. Always check strap security before each trip. Ensure straps are intact and not worn. Replace damaged straps only with EAL GmbH approved straps.

WARNING! [!] Risk of accidents due to improperly mounted carrier. Do not drive with a folded carrier. Mobile parts can be hazardous. Remove the carrier if not in use. Never drive with a folded carrier.

WARNING! [!] Risk of injury or damage from protruding parts. Ensure parts do not extend beyond the vehicle or carrier sides.

WARNING! [!] Risk of accidents due to tarpaulins. Tarpaulins increase air resistance and can detach, causing accidents. Do not use tarpaulins.

WARNING! [!] Risk of losing bicycles due to unsecured carrier. Ensure the carrier is correctly and securely attached to the towbar. Check the connection after a few kilometers. If loose, re-mount. If the connection is inadequate or defective, it may lead to the carrier detaching. Replace defective towbar couplings. Clean the towbar coupling before mounting.

INSTRUCTION! [i] Towbar balls may have a protective lacquer layer. For better grip, it is recommended to carefully remove this layer. Refer to the towbar manufacturer's instructions.

Mounting the License Plate

Before first use:

1. Slide the license plate into the designated holder.

2. Secure the license plate using the clips.

3. Insert and lock the retaining bolt.

Mounting the Carrier to the Towbar Coupling

Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the handbrake.

WARNING! [!] Do not mount a damaged carrier. Check for deformed parts, cracks, or scratches. If damaged, do not mount and consult the maintenance section.

WARNING! [!] Risk of carrier detachment during transit due to improper connection. Ensure the carrier is securely fastened to the towbar coupling. If the connection is loose, repeat steps 4-8 of the mounting procedure. If the issue persists, adjust the quick-release mechanism as described in the Maintenance section.

INSTRUCTION! [i] For optimal handling, it is recommended to remove any protective lacquer from the towbar ball before mounting.

Securing the Carrier

WARNING! [!] Risk of carrier detachment if the lever is not locked. Verify the lever is locked and the key is removed. Lock the carrier to prevent theft.

WARNING! [!] Risk of carrier detachment during transit due to improper connection. Check the carrier's secure attachment. If loose, repeat mounting steps 4-8. If the problem persists, adjust the quick-release mechanism (see Maintenance).

WARNING! [!] Risk of accidents due to non-functional lighting. Check all lights before each trip. Replace faulty bulbs. Ensure the connector is properly seated.

Mounting the License Plate Holder

WARNING! [!] Risk of the license plate holder detaching if not secured. If the retaining bolt is not engaged, the holder could detach during transit.

1. Remove the retaining bolt.

2. Fold down the license plate holder until it audibly clicks into place.

3. Release the retaining bolt and allow it to engage in the holder's slot.

Mounting the Bicycles

ATTENTION! [!] Risk of parts detaching from bicycles during transit. Remove any loose accessories from bicycles (e.g., pumps, bags, navigation devices, batteries).

INSTRUCTION! [i] For better vehicle handling, mount the heaviest bicycle first. If mounting only one bicycle, place it in the rail closest to the rear of the vehicle.

Follow the numbered steps in the diagrams to mount the bicycles onto the carrier rails and secure them with the frame and wheel straps. Ensure all straps are tightened securely and are not worn.

WARNING! [!] Risk of losing bicycles due to unsecured straps. Check strap security before every trip. Ensure straps are correctly and securely fastened around the bicycles and the carrier's U-brackets. Retighten straps if necessary. Replace worn or damaged straps only with EAL GmbH approved ones.

WARNING! [!] Risk of losing a bicycle due to improper connection between carrier and bicycle. Ensure bicycles are securely fastened. If the connection is not firm, repeat mounting steps 1-10.

Mounting a Third Bicycle (PREMIUM 3)

The third bicycle is mounted using the wheel chocks on the tire, similar to the first two. Additionally, the third bicycle is connected to the short frame fixture via its central frame.

Tilting the Carrier for Trunk Access

ATTENTION! [!] Risk of damage to the carrier from an open tailgate. Ensure the tailgate does not hit the carrier. Disconnect any electric tailgates and operate them manually. Tilt the carrier down before opening the tailgate.

PRUDENCE! [!] Risk of crushing body parts or objects when tilting the carrier. Ensure the area under and around the carrier is clear. Be mindful of your head and maintain a safe distance. When tilting, hold the U-bracket securely. Use your foot to release the lock (1), then tilt the carrier down (2).

PRUDENCE! [!] Risk of crushing body parts or objects when the carrier returns to its upright position. Ensure nothing is between the carrier and the vehicle. Remove any obstructions.

Removing the Carrier

WARNING! [!] Risk of losing the carrier during transit if not properly secured. Ensure the carrier is raised and locked before driving. Verify the carrier is engaged and the rotary knob is locked. If necessary, re-engage and lock the carrier as previously described.

To remove the carrier, follow the mounting steps in reverse order. First, loosen the retaining bolt behind the license plate holder.

Carrying, Storage, and Maintenance

Carrying the Carrier

The carrier can be carried without the storage bag.

Inserting into Storage Bag

Place the carrier into the storage bag.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Clean the carrier with a mild cleaning agent, warm water, and a soft cloth. Remove heavy dirt and dust first. Do not use solvents or similar cleaners, as they can damage the carrier. Allow the carrier to air dry; do not use heat sources. If living near the sea or in areas with winter conditions, clean the carrier regularly to remove salt and prolong its life. For long periods of non-use (e.g., winter), store the carrier in a dry, protected place.

Maintenance Checks

Before each trip, inspect the carrier for wear, especially metal parts and straps. Contact customer service for replacement parts. Modifications to original parts or structure can compromise safety. The steel parts are powder-coated for corrosion protection. If this coating is damaged, seek professional repair. Under normal use, the carrier requires only cleaning and no specific maintenance.

Quick Release Adjustment

Perform this adjustment only if the carrier cannot be securely fixed to the towbar coupling as described in the mounting section.

1. Remove the carrier from the towbar.
2. Remove the dust cap.
3. Slightly loosen the locknut.
4. Turn the adjustment screw clockwise by a quarter turn.
5. Tighten the locknut.
6. Check if the carrier is now securely positioned on the towbar coupling. If not, repeat the adjustment steps.

Disposal and Contact Information

Disposal

The bicycle carrier is an electrical appliance due to its lighting system. Do not dispose of electrical appliances with household waste. Used electrical and electronic equipment must be collected separately for environmentally friendly recycling. Contact your local authority for disposal options. Recycling contributes to environmental protection. Dispose of the carrier in accordance with local laws and regulations.

Contact Information

EAL GmbH
Otto-Hausmann-Ring 107
42115 Wuppertal
Germany

Phone: +49 (0)202 42 92 83 0
Fax: +49 (0) 202 42 92 83 – 160
Email: info@eal-vertrieb.com
Website: www.eal-vertrieb.com

Appendix: Wiring Harness Assignment

The bicycle carrier is equipped with a lighting system that connects via a 13-pin plug to the trailer hitch socket. If your vehicle has a 7-pin socket, refer to the following assignments. This information is primarily for specialized dealers performing modifications. Modifications by untrained persons are not permitted.

7-Pin Connector Assignment

13-Pin Connector Assignment

Recycling Information: This appliance, its accessories, and cords are recyclable. Prefer repair or donation. Dispose of at designated collection points or recycling centers.

Appendix: Spare Parts Overview

An exploded view diagram shows all individual parts of the bicycle carrier with numbered components for identification and ordering of spare parts.