trailer hitch saga

[TowX]

Originally Posted by JCL

Not sure when it was introduced, but my 2003 had it, and all models since then. Yes, it is essentially a different program on the DSC, using the braking system to counteract trailer sway if the vehicle senses it (presumably beyond a certain threshold)

The capability needs to be initiated by the dealer. Just plugging in the wiring does not make it happen. After I installed my hitch and wiring, my dealer did the initialization for me, which enabled stability for sway, but also eliminated the problem many have with the blinkers flashing too fast when the trailer is hooked up, and eliminated the occasional lights dimly flashing with the trailer hooked up even with the ignition off. Also shits off the rear PDC when trailer is plugged in, but leaves the front sensors active.

Many wonder why use the factory trailer wiring setup, but it has so many features beyond just lights, that I can't imagine using anything else.

BTW- the stability sway control does work. A few months ago, towing my 4500 lbs to the track, going over a mountain pass and down the other side, I entered a right hand turn that was marked 50, at about 60. No big deal except that just around the corner out of sight, was a tractor going maybe 10 in my lane. I was hard on the brakes, and had to abruptly swerve into the oncoming lane to miss him, and had to quickly throw it back into my lane since an 18 wheeler was coming up the hill toward me. The X5 and trailer worked beautifully together.

[dsm2925]

i know a guy that has a brand new Putnam brand x5 hitch for $100 by my area NJ

[kishg]

Originally Posted by dsm2925

i know a guy that has a brand new Putnam brand x5 hitch for $100 by my area NJ

pretty much all of us are looking for OEM hitches..

[Weasel]

Very similar to the "new" system ford is promoting on the new F150.

[JCL]

Originally Posted by weasel56

Very similar to the "new" system ford is promoting on the new F150.

Did Ford also buy it from Bosch?

[WHIPPET]

In Montreal, i had luck getting the hitch installed by UHaul. At the time, i needed the hitch for a bike rack and wiring wasn't necessary. LAst year I tried to get the wiring installed but had to go to the dealer b/c of the "special" wiring harness. It cost me more b/c I had installed the hitch elsewhere, but at least I can tow!

[TowX]

What are you using for a trailer? E30 track car should be in the 2700-2800 lb range, so with a basic trailer you should be under 4000 lbs. If you can't come up with a hitch by the March event, try National car rental. They have a lot of Chevy Trailblazers to rent. Every rental company orders their vehicles without hitches on purpose, but the hitch is standard on the Trailblazer. Class III receiver. They don't want you to tow with it, but I've done that in a pinch. Just be friendly with the local National location to be sure they hold a Trailblazer for you and not any other SIUV.

For the hitch manufacturer, I think you're close. Westfalia, but made in SC. Here's the info I was able to dig up some months ago but never pursued it. give it a shot.

Company Name: Westfalia American Hitch, Inc
Address: 161 Se Rock Church Rd, Greenwood, SC 29649-8775 (Map)
Alt Business Name: Westfalia American Hitch
Location Type: Single Location
Est. Annual Sales: View Details
Est. # of Employees: 4
Est. Empl. at Loc.: 4
Year Started: 2006
State of Incorp:
SIC #Code: View Details
Contact's Name: Keith Anderson
Contact's Title: President
(864) 223-5519

[zimster28]

My dealer did in fact take a hitch and light module off of one of their used cars in the lot. I asked and five minutes later after talking to the used car manager they agreed to do it. no charge for the hitch itself. I was only charged labor, 3 hours to remove and 3 hours to install. ^ hours labor and that was it. talk about great service.

[kishg]

Originally Posted by zimster28

My dealer did in fact take a hitch and light module off of one of their used cars in the lot. I asked and five minutes later after talking to the used car manager they agreed to do it. no charge for the hitch itself. I was only charged labor, 3 hours to remove and 3 hours to install. ^ hours labor and that was it. talk about great service.

heck, i'd even pay for the hitch + labor to swap at this point. one of my local dealers quoted me $900 installed provided they find one in their inventory.

[kishg]

yeah, i'll be around the 4k mark. my e30s around the 2500 mark (sans driver). looking at an aluminum trailer (under 1k) + lets say 500lbs max in tires/tools. good tip about National, tks. now i understand why i was confused, when i heard westfalia, i assumed it was the WV accessory maker.

Originally Posted by TowX

What are you using for a trailer? E30 track car should be in the 2700-2800 lb range, so with a basic trailer you should be under 4000 lbs. If you can't come up with a hitch by the March event, try National car rental. They have a lot of Chevy Trailblazers to rent. Every rental company orders their vehicles without hitches on purpose, but the hitch is standard on the Trailblazer. Class III receiver. They don't want you to tow with it, but I've done that in a pinch. Just be friendly with the local National location to be sure they hold a Trailblazer for you and not any other SIUV.

For the hitch manufacturer, I think you're close. Westfalia, but made in SC. Here's the info I was able to dig up some months ago but never pursued it. give it a shot.

Company Name: Westfalia American Hitch, Inc
Address: 161 Se Rock Church Rd, Greenwood, SC 29649-8775 (Map)
Alt Business Name: Westfalia American Hitch
Location Type: Single Location
Est. Annual Sales: View Details
Est. # of Employees: 4
Est. Empl. at Loc.: 4
Year Started: 2006
State of Incorp:
SIC #Code: View Details
Contact's Name: Keith Anderson
Contact's Title: President
(864) 223-5519