Chris Barsalou

Has anyone added an aftermarket tow-hitch to their GLE300d? Tow-hitch manufacturers do not seem to cover this vehicle, however, knowing that the W166 is basically the same for the ML 350 BlueTEC I would like to identify what hitch will fit.

I'm tempted to order the Draw-Tite https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hit...ite/76141.html which shows excellent install instructions and video for the install.

Looking for comments/recommendations/thoughts.

Thanks in advance

SUV John

This is one topic I found while searching for towing information that may help you covering an aftermarket hitch installation.

https://mbworld.org/forums/gle-class...17-gle350.html

Chris Barsalou

Thanks! I have seen that thread. The places who install hitches, are hesitant to install on in which the manufacturer won't say it specifically fits.

fabbrisd1

Call Curt Manuf and Draw Tite and see what they say... and check with MB Part's Dept... the fact is the GLE300d has a DEF tank back there.. and fastening "may" be different..

Chris Barsalou

I did call each. Draw-Tite has given the answer "it's probably the same as the ML350 BlueTec (with the DEF tank), but we haven't seen a GLE300d".

fabbrisd1

And what did the MB dealer part's dept say ? Get a VIN# for a ML350 BlueTec - call one dealer to get part# and quote for the ML350BT - and call a 2nd # for part# and quote for your GLE hitch... then see if the two part#s are the same..and compare MB hitch quote to Draw-Tite "maybe".

Chris Barsalou

I've given my VIN to two different companies that called MB. I don't believe MB has a part # for the vehicle. The local MB dealer (San Antonio, TX) laughed with the hitch dealer that the car is a "rare bird" and must be a California car (which it was, I actually got in Dallas from a specialty used MB dealer).

Great idea on the ML VIN, I will look into finding one and calling the two local dealers. Thanks!