L-L

Hey everybody,

I did some research regarding aftermarket (Curt & Uhaul) towing hitch for a 2015 GL350 Bluetec-Diesel X-166 (registered late 2014).
It seems that both Curt (#17173) and Uhaul have towing hitches for X166 2014 GL350 but NOT for 2015.

1. Any idea why?
2. Is that indeed correct? (aren't 2014 and 2015 GL350 identical?)
3. Anyone had an aftermarket hitch installed on a 2015 GL350 Bluetec?
4. Anyone knows if the 2015 and later GLs come pre-wired even if the optional towing package [550] was not initially purchased?
5. My local MB dealer provided me with part number 166-310-01-00 which I believe is for the hitch and harness. ($2600 inc labor). Anyone knows if anything else is needed other than part 166-310-01-00, such as different SAM, any other modules, deactivation of ESP, reprogramming the ECU to enable option 550?

Thank you all. 👍
L-L

Ricardoa1

https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...uipped-gl.html

Follow my thread for some options. You don’t need the full factory kit. You can source the parts yourself and have a body shop install it or a shop that’s willing to do it.

Likely with the blue tank the aftermarket hitch won’t work and only the factory receiver can be installed. You will have to call Curt etc to verify, the UHaul catalog might be outdated or maybe the 2013 listing for diesel is inaccurate.

I’d help if you’re in Boston.

RostamDastan

If you are towing heavy, my suggestion is to stick with the OEM hitch. It has 2 large support arms that go into a recess in unibody and get bolted there. It makes for a secure hitch-unibody connection and improves weight distribution when using a weight distribution hitch. The aftermarket hitches, IMO, are not as stout as the OEM hitch.

L-L

Thank you RostamDastan,
Indeed I noticed the two bars that go in the chassis. While the Curt 17137 is rated 7500lb/900lb tongue, I agree that the two bars will improve the weight distribution, when WD is used.
Still though, I am very curious to know why Curt advertises 17173 as compatible for 2014 GL350 but not for 2015 GL350.
I tow a travel trailer which is 3800lb with about 400lb tongue weight.

L-L

UPDATE:Apparently my local MB dealer states that also the blower assembly needs to be replaced (part 099-906-40-00), when adding a hitch. ($1,340). In addition, part 166-520-05-23 (some kind of cover) and 166-430-16-29 (vacuum hose) are also needed according to the dealer.

Anyone has experience with all the above mentioned parts when it comes to adding the oem hitch?

Yeffsy

I was aware that there was a larger capacity coolant fan. I didn't add it. I'm planning to get a used one. www.car-part.com has some available in my area now for $485 to $615. I haven't had any temperature problems yet, but it's something I should do.

Jeff