Build Log: M57 X5

[ucsbwsr]

Originally Posted by WuCreW

Can I ask why OEM hitch? most of us went aftermarket as we didnt want to cut into the bumper nor liked how the OEM looked after it was installed?

Good job so far, may I suggest painting the fenders to match the body....

Not doing to paint the fenders as that means painting the lower bumper corners and it looks cheesy and cluttered with so many panels IMO. The only way I would do it is with an M sport front bumper and M sport or X5M rear bumper but my paint (A68) wasn't offered on the X5M and is super rare on M sports the chances of finding those bumpers is slim to none, sourcing the bumpers and having them painted along with the fenders and rocker panels isn't a welcomed expense. My dark grey paint does a good job of hiding the black plastics and to be honest I don't mind the contrast of the utilitarian look of the plastics.

I went with the OEM hitch as the other main prospect, Curt Hitch, requires a stabilizer strap for bike racks which is just stupid and what I consider to be a design flaw. OEM is kown for having robust construction. As far as the trimming of the bumper I will modify the electrical connector mounting plate as others have done and trim the bumper as minimally and cleanly as possible to accommodate the 2" receiver only. This means that only the receiver will show (like the other aftermarket options) but sit higher in the bumper so it will be even cleaner looking (IMO).

I looked at the stealth hitches but the concept of using what is essentially extensions for the receiver and/or towing ball adds another piece that can wobble around, given this will be prodominantly used for a bike rack (1UP Super Duty) and my Pole Evolink is one of the longest bikes on the market this was a big concern. Not to mention all the stealth hitches are wildly overpriced.

This was my inspiration for the OEM hitch, mine should look even more stealthy with my lower valence black as opposed to OEM silver.

Originally Posted by crystalworks

Continued nice work. Wish I could work as fast as you do. Be careful with the taller aspect tires from stock. They can get expensive. I went up on my E53 x5 to 285/40/20 up front, which weren't bad. But the rears to match had to be 325/35/20 which are only made by Pirelli. And list for something like $550/tire. They have really helped though in terms of usability and have saved my Forgestars from one or two possible curb rash incidents over the years.

Congrats on the E61! Yes, you should start a build log!

I am familiar with the tire options, if you think 20" is bad try looking for 21" tires. lol! There is a silver lining however, Mercedes/Porsche/Audi have Continental make their SportContact 5 and 5P in the sizes I want. 285/45F 325/40R but the problem is the 285/45 didn't fit up front so I am forced to run a 285/40 but I should be able to squeeze the 325/40 in the rear. Having x-delete will negate the F/R diameter concern. As a bonus there are some tire shops which have new old stock of these and can be had for very reasonable prices, $550 for all 4 tires. After I confirm the tires will fit I might stock to have some extras.

[crystalworks]

Originally Posted by ucsbwsr

Congrats on the E61! Yes, you should start a build log!

I am familiar with the tire options, if you think 20" is bad try looking for 21" tires. lol! There is a silver lining however, Mercedes/Porsche/Audi have Continental make their SportContact 5 and 5P in the sizes I want. 285/45F 325/40R but the problem is the 285/45 didn't fit up front so I am forced to run a 285/40 but I should be able to squeeze the 325/40 in the rear. Having x-delete will negate the F/R diameter concern. As a bonus there are some tire shops which have new old stock of these and can be had for very reasonable prices, $550 for all 4 tires. After I confirm the tires will fit I might stock to have some extras.

Thank you. The wife was very impressed with how big the 5er is compared to the x5's. Fits more stuff and has more room for the kids.

Gotcha on the tires. I must have missed the Xdrive delete. Should look VERY nice with the extra sidewall and mild drop.

I think I am going to do those UR bars as well. I have used them on other vehicles but never a BMW and forget they actually make a fair amount of reinforcement/upgrade products for them. Thank you for reminding me.