E39 - Towbar info??

[Waynester]

I want to fit a towbar to my E39, i want it to pull a motorcycle trailer & single motorcycle. So not very heavy, won't obscure the lights but no idea if that means electric connection required still or not?

I have no idea about towbars, cost, type etc.. Looking online was more confusing & looking 2nd hand left me with more questions than answers!

A simple ball type towbar, fitment, new or 2nd hand, so anyone with greater knowledge who can help?


Thanks.

[Cemesis]

Is yours a saloon or touring?

I have an OEM one but I hear the retrofit involves some cutting of the bumper and drilling/bolting of the chassis I believe.

[Waynester]

It's a saloon. I heard some need bumper cutting for fitment, would prefer to avoid this but if no choice then it has to be done.

[nigelonich]

I fitted a towbar to my 2002 530d sport saloon and it was very easy.

You do need to remove/cut the black unpainted section on the lower part of the bumper.

However, I only used the towbar once and just drove without that section. Long term you can get a removable panel to hide the cut out as that is what the BMW fitmet has im sure.

It was easy to fit as there is no drilling to do.

I bought a westfalia detach swan neck towbar BTW on ebay.

[mattman]

I have a single electric bar fitted to my 99 touring SE - they had to make a cut to the bumper to allow the bar to come through as the bumper is quite deep. The electric hook up is hidden behind the bumper which is a bit of a pain when you're trying to connect, but looks neater.
I think it came in all fitted at just under £300 and doesn't affect the parking sensors

You can get detachable ones but they were closer to £600 when I had mine fitted

[E24man]

I had a detachable Bosal fitted to mine for 420 GBP all in. Small, almost invisible cut-out in the rear (SE type) bumper.

[Waynester]

Got myself a used Witter(?) Tow bar with electrical, £65.
Ok, so not shiny & new but all there & good nick. Now to fit!