2003 X5 Tow Hitch Options

[JCL]

Originally Posted by davintosh

Not to argue the point, as in the end I would agree that OE is the only way to go, but anything that attempts to create a solid connection between the unibody and subframe cannot be a good thing. The subframe is designed to move independently of the unibody, albeit in very minute amounts. Bolting a solid piece of metal to both the unibody and the subframe is going to cause problems. If someone wants to go cheap for carrying a bike rack or the like, the sheet metal version would be preferred, but again, not optimal.

I think it comes down to what each of us mean by the word 'subframe' as it is a rather imprecise term IMO. I took it to mean the boxed sections that are welded to the unibody, run fore and aft, and provide stiffening. They are what the rear axle carrier attaches to. If by subframe you mean the rear axle carrier itself, which is rubber mounted, then we are in complete agreement.