Factory trailer hitch for 116!!
 

Hi fellas.

I found this rare and interesting item on a wrecked Euro 116....This is NOT an aftermarket hitch! It was apparently installed as an actual factory option. There is a metal tag on it that reads "Daimler-Benz", along with other specs and info printed in German.... It also has an integrated wiring harness, with a waterproof cover over the socket.

I'd never seen one, or even HEARD of one, prior to finding this one, so I'm assuming it's an uncommon item, at least in the US. I have been told by a fellow enthusiast that it was an infrequently-ordered factory option.

It is a class-II hitch, bolts to the frame, and would probably be more than adequate to tow a jet-ski trailer, small motorcycle trailer, fishing boat, etc....

There's a couple of brackets and mounting plates that must be installed, requiring some drilling in the trunk floor, and behind the rear bumper. I wish I had been able to take some pictures before I removed it from the car, to show how it mounts and how the wiring hooks up....but I didn't have a camera with me. :(

Anyway, I'm reluctant to sell the thing, just because of the novelty factor, and the apparent rarity..... it's so damned cool! But I really don't need it, so all of you 116 freaks...... make me an offer I can't refuse!..... :D

I had to cut two bolts that were completely frozen with rust, and in doing so I slightly damaged one of the mounting brackets. I'm confident that it's not bad enough to affect the structural integrity of the bracket, but it could be patched with a small weld if it bothers you.

It would be a real attention-getter at the next MB get-together you go to! :)

I can take more detailed pix for anyone who is serious about buying the thing.

Mike

One Sturdy Hitch
 

I bought one of these from a Canadian member about two years ago. It is extremely sturdy, heavy-duty, and does the job. I pull a 10' utility trailer with mine, and have had some substantial loads on it.

Installation only took a couple of hours, and the drilling was minimal. Once one figures out the genius of the system, it is absolutely amazing.

If you ever thought you might want to tow with your 116, jump on this one; it is a rare find, indeed.

What size is the ball?
 

Any idea what size the ball is? I don't know what the "standard" size for European hitches is.

SteveM.

Its tempting.......even though I don't have a utility trailer.

There's a stamping on the top of the ball that says "5/85". At first I thought this might be the date of manufacture, but I don't think that's possible if it's a factory-option hitch, because 116 cars weren't made after 1980.... :confused:

So the short answer is.... I dunno. :(

Mike

You mean you don't have a utility trailer YET. ;)

Anybody wanna' buy this thing, before I end up putting it on my car?

Come on, please stop me! :) hahaha..... The more times I walk by and look at it, the more I want to install it on my own 116, even though I have absolutely no need for it! :cool:

Mike

Same here I have a 10,000 lb hitch on my truck.........don't really NEED a hitch.....but its tempting if the price is right.

Here ya go
 

The size is in mm, and I don't remember the exact figure. My trailer has a 2" hitch, and the ball is snug enough that I can lift the entire rear of the car by placing a jack underneath the tongue of the trailer with no danger of it turning loose of the ball.

Before I purchased mine, I did a "search" for hitches. There was at least one thread -- probably many -- that discussed the size issue. I think you would be plenty safe figuring 2".

Mike man, I want it, how much.

Highly interested, my car needs this for future towing so PM with your price, Im dead serious on this one. Me need this.

Peter

If only this was a month from now.... otherwise I'd jump all over it. Got too many projects taking up all my money right now though.... I *REALLY* want it though.

Since it was off of a euro does it work with US bumpers?

John

dont know if this will help, but heres a pic of my 123 with the factory hitch. It goes through the bumper/body and then bolts to the frame. Haven't towed anything with it, but I have the option! :)

Is your hitch for sale?
 

Is it for sale? I am selling my pickup and need a hitch for my 1985 300TD. I see them on Ebay Germany, but the freight is outrageous!

well, the car is for sale, but Im pretty firm on $2K, which I dont think anyone will offer. If (big if) I decide to part out (only way to get money back I think) then you'll be the first one I offer to. :)