Recommendations for trailer hitch

[jpilk99]

Hi all,

I've read a few threads on how to install a trailer hitch, but, curious what folks feel are good value; what's a good buy? And how much. At most, I anticipate towing a very light trailer with maybe a lawnmower, snowblower, etc. Can't see towing more than 1,000-1,500 pounds.

Thanks in advance,

Jay

[fishhouse4]

I looked for a factory one but they were all stupid expensive new OR too beat up used. And then after much research I couldn't justify the cost of a factory setup over an aftermarket Class 3 (Curt, Reese, etc).

I opted for a sort of hybrid approach. Aftermarket Curt hitch but purchased a used BMW towing module off eBay. Couldn't find a cheap factory wiring harness/cable/plug but wanted to use the X5s wiring after seeing several posts about horror stories (instead of the generic wiring direction that Curt recommended). So I just tapped into the existing harness with my own wires to extended the wiring down to the bumper for a nice hardwired Hopkins aftermarket plug.

Turned out fantastic and as good if not better then factory IMO - for MUCH less.

Installation was not difficult (if you don't have a 4.8is, I bet it would be even easier). You can see more details and pics of my install here: https://xoutpost.com/1134426-post9199.html

[jpilk99]

Originally Posted by fishhouse4

I looked for a factory one but they were all stupid expensive new OR too beat up used. And then after much research I couldn't justify the cost of a factory setup over an aftermarket Class 3 (Curt, Reese, etc).

I opted for a sort of hybrid approach. Aftermarket Curt hitch but purchased a used BMW towing module off eBay. Couldn't find a cheap factory wiring harness/cable/plug but wanted to use the X5s wiring after seeing several posts about horror stories (instead of the generic wiring direction that Curt recommended). So I just tapped into the existing harness with my own wires to extended the wiring down to the bumper for a nice hardwired Hopkins aftermarket plug.

Turned out fantastic and as good if not better then factory IMO - for MUCH less.

Installation was not difficult (if you don't have a 4.8is I bet it would be just a matter of bolting it on). You can see more details and pics here: https://xoutpost.com/1134426-post9199.html

Thanks!! What does the BMW towing module do? Also, I'm on a few threads trying to figure out some balky brake lights - curious how you tapped in? I've read how their is a ..."low voltage circuit" or some funky term for lighting up a dual filament bulb in a single light application. Don't want to muck up my brake circuit any more than I have to.

Thank you,

Jay

[fishhouse4]

Not sure what model X you have (you should add it to your signature). But if I recall I read that the towing module allows the vehicle to sense when a trailer is connected and can access a Trailer Stability program in the Dynamic Stability Control if it detects trailer sway. Also was told it does other things like disable rear parking sensors when trailer connected and maybe something with the adjustable suspension as well?

I don't plan on towing anything huge or heavy. And I've never had anything smart like that on any other truck I've ever owned. But for the small expense for a used module and ease of installation (it literally just plugs in) = I felt it was a worthwhile investment for peace of mind, if nothing else.

There is already a factory harness wired and waiting under the trunk floor (again, at least on the 06 4.8is...I assume its the same for other but double check). If you bought the BMW kit then you would literally just plug into the open end of that harness and mount the hitch plug. See: https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-...s/71602156526/

I didn't see the need and could easily wire my own. $15 Hopkins plug (https://www.amazon.com/Hopkins-48485.../dp/B0002Q80Y0) and some spare wire and bullet connectors I already had laying around.

I actually cut off the factory plug, put on female bullet connectors on each wire. Then used my own wires with male connects to plug into those and run to the Hopkins unit. Just a matter of making sure the wires matched up. Turned out to be much more simple then I feared after reading many posts about it all.

I remember reading about the whole low voltage issue. I don't currently have LEDs on my trailer so not something I needed to deal with at this time. Plus I had seen adapters that claim to address the "lamp out" issue (https://www.etrailer.com/Wiring/Tow-Ready/TR20141.html). No issues with standard bulbs on my trailer.

[Bdc101]

The computer tests each lighting circuit and if it draws more or less amps than it thinks it should, it will tell you to check the lights.

I have a factory hitch but no towing module, so I have the opposite of fishhouse4's problem. I just deal with the "Check rear lights" message the first time I start off with the trailer. I would get the towing module but the wiring harness is unavailable anymore, unless you find one in a junkyard.

[fishhouse4]

FYI I found this thread very helpful when it came to the wiring topic: https://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sh...d.php?t=925538

[jpilk99]

Thanks ALL