2006 M Class tow bar removal

[oliemitchell]

Hi all,

First time poster, hoping you can help. Just bought a 2006 M Class AMG in great nick. Bought it off an old boy who was a caravan aficionado and had a tow bar installed. I'm not such a keen caravaner and have no need for tow bar. Want to remove it as it cramps the style slightly but can't find any removal video/guide online!

Any tips? Does it involve taking the whole bumper off like all the (US) installation videos I've found on YouTube?

Cheers

[donkmeister]

Rare machine, that's the only AMG type-approved for towing!

Depending on tow bar, you may be able to get away with unbolting and removing a foot or so of metal with the towball and electrics attached.

There is a big structure bolted to the rear "chassis rails", if you remove that you'll need a non-towbar one to ensure you have sufficient crash protection under the bumper.

[steve-V8s]

Yep you need the rear beam that came off when the bar was fitted, worth perhaps asking the chap you got it from if he has it lurking at the back of his shed.

[oliemitchell]

Thanks for the replies. I've asked the guy about the rear beam but don't hold much hope. Any idea how much I'd be looking at to buy one?

[el romeral]

I am certainly no expert on the subject being a fairly recent ML55 AMG owner. My 2002 year car came with a detachable towbar which is removable by using a key. There's no chance your's might have this feature too?