Thanks Kev
Saves me looking for the link.
If anybody is going to tow a valuable load, I think it is misguided to use anything except the OE hitch. Yes it costs more. Suck it up. When you compare the attachment points of the aftermarket hitches, and their lack of reinforcement of the body pan, with the OE design, there is no question whatsoever.
There is no reason to pay outlandish dealer install prices. The hitch is around $500, and it is either a straightforward DIY following the links posted on this site, or an easy install for an independent shop who will charge 3 hours or so. If you have a later model, you will need to get the vehicle software flashed, so that is another consideration in choice of installer.
I have installed a few hitches on X models, and can answer any specific questions.
I also think it is worth buying the OE wiring harness, because of the integration into the vehicle. You get the rear PDC turned off to prevent continual beeping, and the Trailer Stability Control function in DSC. There is no risk of damage to the mutli-plexed wiring. It used to be possible to buy the OE wiring harness separately, but what I am seeing now is the separate parts of it, not the complete wiring kit. If you add up the parts the price is not reasonable. If you buy the OE hitch, all the wriing kit is included. It makes it pretty much a no-brainer.
On the other hand, if you are towing 1000 lbs, anything will do. But the hitch with the strut running longitudinally looks fugly, IMO. Look up the threads here where we discussed it. Edit: this thread here:
http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...-thinking.html
Jeff