Monoflex Nordic - Westfalia Tow Bar Installation and Operation Manual
Model: 35.4201
For: Honda Accord Sedan & Stationwagon 2008-
General Information and Safety Warnings
This document provides installation and operating instructions for the Westfalia detachable tow bar (Art. no. 35.4201) for Honda Accord Sedan & Stationwagon models from 2008 onwards. It is crucial to adhere to national guidelines regarding the installation and approval of towing devices. Any modifications or alterations to the tow bar are strictly prohibited and will void the type approval. Ensure that insulating material or underbody protection in the area of the tow bar's contact surfaces is removed before installation.
The tow bar is designed for towing trailers and for use with load carriers. Any other use is forbidden. Vehicles equipped with parking assistance systems may experience malfunctions after the tow bar is mounted, as components like the ball or coupling ball may be within the sensor's range. In such cases, the sensing range should be adjusted, or the parking assistance system deactivated. For tow bars with removable or pivoting balls, malfunctions are less likely when the ball is not in the operating position.
The tow bar is a safety-critical component and must only be installed by qualified technicians. Improper installation can lead to serious accidents. The Swedish text in this manual is binding.
Important Usage Notes:
- Before each journey, verify the correct locking of the detachable ball bar. Check that the green markings on the handwheel and ball bar align, the handwheel is flush against the ball bar (no gap), the lock is closed with the key removed, and the ball bar is firmly seated in the receiver tube.
- If any of these checks fail, repeat the installation. If the issue persists, the tow bar must not be used due to accident risk. Contact the manufacturer.
- Installation and removal of the ball bar can be performed with normal hand strength. Never use auxiliary tools or aids, as this may damage the mechanism.
- Never unlock the mechanism when a trailer or load carrier is attached.
- When driving without a trailer or load carrier, remove the ball bar and always insert the plug into the receiver tube. This is particularly important if the ball obstructs the view of the license plate or lights.
- Regular maintenance of the mechanical parts is essential. Use only graphite for the lock. Lubricate bearing points, friction surfaces, and balls with resin-free grease or oil for corrosion protection.
- When cleaning the vehicle with a high-pressure steam cleaner, remove the ball bar and insert the plug. Never clean the ball bar with steam.
Key Identification: The detachable ball bar comes with 2 keys. Note the key number ???? for future orders.
Parts List
| Item No. | Part Number / Description | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | FBA 5209 | 1x |
| 7 | FFJ 8314H | 1x |
| 10 | FFJ 8314V | 1x |
| 11 | FDR 20016 | 2x |
| 12 | FDR 20015 | 1x |
| 13 | FBR 6234 | 2x |
| 14 | M12x110 (8.8) | 1x |
| 15 | M12x40 (8.8) | 8x |
| 16 | M8x30 (8.8) | 4x |
| 17 | M12.lock (8) | 3x |
| 18 | 12x35x3 | 4x |
| 19 | 9x28x2 | 4x |
| 20 | 13x24x2 | 8x |
| 21 | 8.2 | 4x |
| 24 | 316128601009 | 1x |
| 34 | 53.59 | 1x |
| 35 | 313183630121 | 1x |
Installation Procedure
The installation involves several steps, generally requiring the removal of bumper components and precise fitting of the tow bar structure to the vehicle's chassis. Specific steps include:
- Preparation: Remove the protective plug from the receiver tube. Ensure the ball bar is in the unlocked position (indicated by a 5mm gap between the handwheel and ball bar, and specific green marking alignment). If the locking mechanism is engaged, it needs to be pre-tensioned by inserting the key, opening the lock, pulling the handwheel, and turning it until it stops.
- Mounting the Tow Bar: Insert the ball bar with its stop pin into the receiver tube from below and push upwards. The locking mechanism engages automatically. Keep hands clear of the handwheel during this process as it rotates.
- Securing: Close the lock and always remove the key. Press the cover onto the lock.
- Bumper Modification: A template (Urskärningsmall / Ausschneideschablone) is provided for cutting the bumper. The diagram indicates an area to be cut away, with specific dimensions (e.g., 100mm width, 97mm height for Sedan/Stationwagon, or 91mm width, 122mm height for Touter/Stw). The bottom edge of the bumper is also indicated.
- Fastening: Specific bolts and nuts (e.g., M12x110, M12x40, M8x30) are used to secure the tow bar to the vehicle's chassis, often requiring specific torque values (e.g., M12 83Nm).
Note: Variations in car models may occur. Always check that the template and parts are correct for your specific vehicle model and tow bar.
Operation and Maintenance
Pre-Drive Checks: Before driving, always check the correct locking of the detachable ball bar. Ensure green markings align, the handwheel is flush, the lock is secure, and the ball bar is firmly seated. If any check fails, repeat the installation or contact the manufacturer.
Usage: The tow bar must be removed and the plug inserted into the receiver when not in use. This is crucial if the ball obstructs the license plate or lights.
Maintenance: Keep the ball bar and receiver clean. Regularly service mechanical parts, using graphite for the lock and resin-free grease or oil for bearings, sliding surfaces, and balls. This also provides corrosion protection.
Cleaning: Do not use high-pressure steam cleaners on the ball bar. Remove the ball bar and insert the plug before steam cleaning the vehicle.
Technical Specifications
D-Value: 9.50 kN (calculated based on vehicle's max permissible weight and max towing mass).
Vertical Load (S): max. 75 kg.
Towing Capacity: Refer to the vehicle's registration documents.
Attachment Class: A50-X
Approval: e4*94/20*3901*00
Torque Values: M12 bolts typically require 83Nm.
