Westfalia Tow Bar Installation Guide

Important Safety Information and General Instructions

Note: This document provides installation guidance. Always refer to your vehicle's manual and local regulations. The Swedish text in this manual is considered binding.

General Warnings:

• National guidelines concerning official approval of vehicle accessories must be observed.
• Any alteration or modification of the tow bar is strictly prohibited and will void the vehicle's type approval.
• Before installation, remove any insulating material or underbody protection from the vehicle's chassis in the areas where the tow bar will attach.
• The tow bar is designed for towing trailers and carrying loads using approved carriers. Any other use is forbidden.
• If your vehicle is equipped with a parking assistance system, it may experience malfunctions after the tow bar is installed, as components like the ball or hitch may interfere with sensors. Adjust the sensor range or deactivate the parking system if this occurs. This issue is less likely with detachable or pivoting ball hitches when the ball is not in its operating position.
• The tow bar is a safety-critical component and must be installed only by qualified professionals. Incorrect installation can lead to serious accidents.
• Modifications to the product are reserved.

Parts Included

The tow bar kit (Part No. 49.8258) typically includes the following components:

• 1x Tow Ball Assembly (Part FBA 8084)
• 8x M12x35 (8.8) Bolts
• 8x Washers (12x35x3)
• 4x Fasteners (Part M.P0003)
• 1x Component A (Specification 53.47)
• 1x Component B
• 2x M12x70 (8.8) Bolts
• 2x M12 Locking Nuts
• 4x Washers (13x24x2)

Installation Procedure

This section details the steps for fitting the Westfalia tow bar to a Jeep Grand Cherokee (2010 onwards). Ensure you have the necessary tools, such as wrenches and socket sets.

Step 1: Prepare for Bumper Removal

Locate and carefully remove the trim pieces surrounding the rear bumper. Diagrams show arrows pointing to clips and fasteners that need to be released.

Step 2: Remove Rear Bumper

Detatch and remove the entire rear bumper assembly from the vehicle. Visual aids show the bumper being carefully lifted away, with indications of fastener locations.

Step 3: Access Wheel Arch Areas

To access the chassis mounting points, remove the plastic trim panels from the inner wheel arches. Diagrams illustrate hands pulling these trim pieces free.

Step 4: Position Tow Bar Frame

Align the main tow bar frame with the designated mounting brackets on the vehicle's chassis. Diagrams show the frame being carefully maneuvered into place.

Step 5: Connect Electrical Harness

Connect the vehicle's electrical wiring harness to the tow bar's electrical socket or control module. A diagram shows a connector being plugged in.

Step 6: Adjust Exhaust System

For better access, the vehicle's exhaust system may need to be lowered or temporarily removed. Diagrams show how to manage the exhaust components.

Step 7: Mount Control Unit (if applicable)

If your kit includes a separate control unit (e.g., for trailer lights or vehicle systems), mount it securely in the designated location as shown in the diagrams.

Step 8: Remove Original Bumper Beam

The vehicle's factory-installed bumper beam must be removed to accommodate the tow bar. Diagrams show the beam being unbolted and removed.

Step 9: Attach Tow Bar to Chassis

Secure the tow bar frame to the chassis using the provided M12x35 bolts (4 required). Diagrams show the bolts being inserted and tightened.

Step 10: Install Tow Ball

Attach the tow ball assembly to the main tow bar frame. Use the specified bolts and nuts, and tighten them to a torque of 83 Nm for M12 bolts.

Step 11: Reinstall Bumper Trim

Reattach any interior wheel arch trim panels that were removed earlier.

Step 12: Final Bumper Fitment and Torquing

If necessary, trim approximately 10mm from the bumper for clearance. Reinstall the rear bumper. Ensure all final mounting bolts (e.g., M12x70) are tightened to the specified torque of 83 Nm.

Technical Specifications and Homologation

Vehicle Compatibility: Jeep Grand Cherokee (Model Year 09/2010 onwards)

Tow Bar Part Number: 49.8258

Homologation Approval: e4*94/20*4354*01

Hitch Class and Type: A50-X

D-Value: 16.00 kN

Maximum Vertical Load (S): 175 kg

Maximum Towing Capacity (R): 3500 kg

Vehicle Data Reference: For specific towing weights, consult your vehicle's registration document.

D-Value Formula: The D-value, a measure of towing capacity, is calculated using the formula: D = (T x C) / (T + C) x 0.00981 kN, where T represents the maximum mass of the towing vehicle (in kg) and C represents the maximum towing mass of the trailer (in kg).

Clearance Requirements: Compliance with Appendix VII, Diagram 30 of Directive 94/20/EC is mandatory. This ensures adequate clearance around the tow ball and hitch assembly for safe operation.

Weight Limits: Always adhere to the vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating and the tow bar's specified load capacities.

Maintenance Schedule: It is crucial to re-check the torque of all fasteners at 0 km and again at 1000 km after the initial installation.

Estimated Installation Time: Approximately 90 minutes.

Installation Declaration

This section is to be completed by the installer. It serves as a declaration that the tow bar has been fitted correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions and the vehicle's specifications. The installer also confirms that the vehicle owner has been fully informed about the proper usage and maintenance procedures for the installed tow bar.