03-28-2017, 12:21 AM | #1 |
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TorkLift EcoHitch install
I installed a TorkLift EcoHitch and trailer wiring this weekend. The quality and fitment are top notch. I like the fact that you can get a 1.25" or 2" adapter, and that the adapter is removable for a stock appearance. Although I'll probably just leave it on. Another nice factor is that it allows you to keep the factory crash bumper. Most other solutions require removing it.
Installation was relatively straight forward using the supplied instructions from TorkLift. I ended up varying from the standard install so that I could mount a Hopkins 47185 Multi-Tow Adapter to the back of the hitch to keep things stealthy. The adapter offers 7-blade round RV-style or 4-pin flat connector options, 12V pass through, reverse light and trailer brake leads, the latter two of which I'm not currently using, but like having the option to connect later if I'll be towing an RV. The Multi-Tow bracket ended up mounted to the back side of the hitch with a couple of shallow holes and screws. I could have perhaps tucked it up a little higher, but even with the receiver adapter removed, it's barely noticeable. The valence required a little extra trimming to accommodate the Multi-Tow. The converter is a Tow Ready 119190 ModuLite HD Protector. I would have much preferred the factory tow module and it's vehicle integration, but at ten times the price, the Tow Ready is a far cheaper option. The e-trailer.com video was invaluable in wiring this item. https://www.etrailer.com/tv-install-...119190kit.aspx Luckily, there was a plug on the passenger side in the battery compartment that was perfect for use as a grommet to pass the trailer wiring through. I ended up slotting it, cutting a hole in the middle, and sealing it all up with some sealant I had around. The ground post on the chassis was handy, as was the positive battery accessory post for electrical connections. I also used the ground under the stereo module mount for the converter's ring terminal (white wire) and mounted the converter with a low vibration synthetic fiber mounting material, aka a yellow microfiber cloth stuffed down behind the driver side storage compartment. Last edited by hardparker; 11-01-2017 at 10:30 AM.. |
05-05-2017, 08:50 AM | #2 |
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Nice job man, nice and clean. I was looking at the same hitch for my X3. Regarding the wiring connections that you made, is that hardness purchased from ecolift/torklift also or did you source that form another manufacture? Can you share part numbers for the wire hardness and connection socket that you have installed.
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05-05-2017, 09:13 AM | #3 |
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Thanks, airwalk776. I only got the hitch from TorkLift. The electrical components I ordered off of Amazon, other than the wiring and fuse holder that I had lying around from previous projects.
The electrical parts I used, to recap, are: Hopkins 47185 Multi-Tow Adapter Tow Ready 119190 ModuLite HD Protector Inline fuse holder, black and red wire for power and ground.
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Last edited by hardparker; 11-01-2017 at 10:27 AM.. |
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11-01-2017, 10:01 AM | #5 |
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Nice work and pics! Your pics and description have convinced me that this is the ideal solution!
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11-01-2017, 12:09 PM | #6 |
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Clean install ! now ya only need a smillie face to cover the hitch
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11-01-2017, 04:40 PM | #7 |
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Great job, what was the partnumber for the actual hitch? Also did you have to take off the bumper to do the install.
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11-02-2017, 05:04 PM | #8 |
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Looks like their SKU is BMWX301. Yeah, the whole bumper has to come off to install it. The OEM crash bumper beam reinstalls on top of it. Some other hitches omit it altogether.
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11-03-2017, 02:29 PM | #9 |
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would you have a website that you ordered from, can't find anything with the BMW301 search. Also did you need any special tools to get the bumper off, how hard was it? I found this video on installation:
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Christopher Skach
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11-03-2017, 02:59 PM | #10 |
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I don't recall needing any special tools. https://torkliftcentral.com/rving-an...ohitch-stealth
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11-03-2017, 03:02 PM | #11 |
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Was wondering if you compared this one and what would be the drawbacks of this one?
https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hit...leid=201415144
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11-12-2019, 08:11 AM | #12 |
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Quick bump just to add that they now spec the tongue weight for this hitch on the X3 at 525 pounds! Tow weight is still spec'd as 3,500, but everyone knows the F25 is UK rated at 4,400 pounds.
So, can we say 525 lbs. tongue weight and 4,400 lbs. tow capacity? I think so. Especially with upgraded power, braking, trailer brakes, and possibly a load distribution bar mod to the hitch to ensure good towing handling. I'm going travel trailer shopping...
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11-12-2019, 12:46 PM | #13 |
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reminds me I still havent installed the wiring for my hitch...
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