GDW Towbar for BMW 7 Series (E65 + E66)

Technical Specifications

The following towing specifications are provided:

These specifications are often visually represented in diagrams, indicating maximum permissible weights and forces for towing and vertical load. Clearance specifications, conforming to guideline 94/20/EG Appendix VII, diagram 30, are also critical for proper installation and function.

Composition and Parts

The towbar kit (GDW Ref. 1553T30) includes the following components:

The kit also includes the ball and socket holder (GDW Ref. P08).

This model is identified as a T30 detachable towbar kit.

Bolt Torque Specifications

Torque values for bolts (Quality 8.8):

Torque values for bolts (Quality 10.9):

Installation Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for installation:

1. Disassemble the rear bumper and permanently remove the metal buffer beam. Note: Keep the plastic part of the buffer beam.
2. Position the towbar with points (A) against the rear mounting plate of the vehicle, aligning with the existing bolts where the metal buffer beam was attached. Insert washers and nuts, and tighten securely according to specified torque values.
3. Make a cutout on the underside of the bumper as shown in Drawing 1. Attach the supplied snap nuts to points (C) of the towbar. Position the plastic buffer beam onto points (B) of the towbar. Reassemble the bumper onto the vehicle, securing screws at points (C) of the towbar behind the black plastic styling strip.
4. Assemble the towball with the socket holder (P08).

Bumper Disassembly Details:

• Remove 2x3 screws located in the wheel wells.
• Remove 4 screws located behind the black styling strip (at the rear of the bumper).
• Remove 2x1 screw located under the rear lights, behind the plastic cap matching the car's body color.

Bumper Cutout Diagram (Drawing 1):

A specific area of the bumper's underside needs to be cut away. This area is indicated by hatching in the diagram.

• B: The bumper
• O: The lower rim of the bumper
• M: The middle of the bumper

The cutout dimensions are approximately 185mm in width, with specific depths of 40mm from the lower rim and 99.8mm from the bumper's middle section.

Clearance Specifications:

Ensure that the clearance complies with guideline 94/20/EG Appendix VII, diagram 30. This involves specific angular and linear measurements for safe operation, especially concerning the vehicle's total permissible weight.

Important Advice

Mounting:

• Before starting, inspect the towbar for any transport damage and verify it is the correct reference for the vehicle.
• Read and follow the installation instructions precisely.
• Present the towbar on the vehicle before commencing installation.
• When drilling holes, check for and avoid damaging any existing wiring, brake lines, or fuel lines. Remove any soundproofing or bitumen layers. Treat drilled holes and bodywork parts with an anti-corrosive product.
• If the vehicle has non-standard bumpers (special series, sport versions, tuning parts), consult GDW's technical service before proceeding with installation.

Guarantee:

• Do not exceed the indicated maximum towing weight, "D" value, and "S" value.
• The towbar must be checked after the first 1,000 km of use and at least once a year.
• During checks:
• Inspect all bolt connections and retighten if necessary.
• Repair any damage to the paint finish.
• Replace any components that have been damaged due to an accident or collision.
• Grease the internal parts of detachable towbar systems.

Usage:

• If the towball covers the license plate or the fog light, it must be removed when not in use.
• For the maximum permissible towing mass for your vehicle, consult your car dealer or owner's manual.