Westfalia Tow Bar Installation and Operating Instructions
For Mercedes-Benz M-Klasse (W164), GL-Klasse (X164), GL-Klasse (X166)
This document provides installation and operating instructions for Westfalia tow bars, models 313 341 and 313 346, designed for Mercedes-Benz M-Klasse (W164), GL-Klasse (X164), and GL-Klasse (X166) vehicles.
Important Information and Safety Precautions
- National guidelines concerning official approval of auxiliaries must be observed.
- Any alteration or modification of the towing hitch is prohibited and voids the operating license.
- Remove insulating compound and underbody coating from the area around the contact surface of the trailer hitch.
- The trailer hitch is intended for towing trailers and for attaching devices for carrying loads. Any other use is prohibited.
- Vehicles equipped with an acoustic parking system may experience malfunctions after mounting the trailer hitch if parts (e.g., the bar or the ball) are within the sensor range. Adjust the sensing range or disable the parking system if necessary. For removable or pivoting ball tow bars, parking system function should not be affected when the ball tow bar is not in the operating position.
- The trailer hitch is a safety-critical part and must only be fitted by qualified companies. Improper assembly can result in a serious accident hazard.
- The German text of this instruction is binding.
- Subject to change.
Technical Specifications
- Tow Bar Types: 313 193, 313 216
- Approval Numbers: e13*94/20*00*2141, e13*94/20*00*2312
- Coupling Class: A50-X
- D-Value: 16 kN
- Vertical Load (S): 135 kg
- Towing Capacity: Refer to the vehicle's registration document.
- D-Value Definition: D = (T x C) / (T + C) x 0.00981, where T = Max. permissible vehicle weight (kg) and C = Max. permissible trailer weight (kg).
Installation Overview
The installation involves several steps, including removing a bumper part, attaching mounting brackets, and securing the tow bar assembly. Specific hardware and torque settings are indicated in the diagrams.
- Step 1-3: Removal of rear bumper section.
- Step 4-6: Preparation and attachment of mounting components.
- Step 7-8: Securing the main tow bar structure to the vehicle's chassis using M10 bolts (torque 55 Nm).
- Step 9-12: Attaching the tow bar arms and ensuring proper fitment with specified bolts and torque settings (M10: 55 Nm, M12: 95 Nm).
- Step 13-15: Reassembly and final checks.
- Step 16: Final attachment of the tow ball assembly.
Important Notes on Clearance
Ensure that the clearance specified in Appendix VII, Diagram 30 of guideline 94/20/EC is maintained. This includes specific angle and distance requirements for the tow ball relative to the vehicle's rear.
- Maximum angle for tow ball: 45°
- Minimum clearance from vehicle's rear: 32 mm (min. height), 140 mm (min. distance)
- Clearance for parking sensors: Ensure no interference.
- The tow bar must be installed according to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications and relevant regulations.
Declaration of Correct Installation
The undersigned company declares that the specified tow bar type has been installed correctly, adhering to attachment points and manufacturer's prescriptions. The vehicle owner has been informed about the use and maintenance of the device.
Part Identification
- 313 341 600 001
- 313 346 600 001
Manufacturer Information
- WESTFALIA-Automotive GmbH
- Am Sandberg 45
- D-33378 Rheda-Wiedenbrück