I am thinking about installing a Drawtite trailer hitch on my '93 245. IPD's catalog says "may require slight modification of the lower bumper cover on some models", and other Drawtite dealers sites also mention that modifications will be needed.

In looking at my car, it looks to me like most of the rear under bumper plastic apron would need to go. On this model the apron wraps around the side of the car, and would lose its mounting points. Has anyone installed one of these hitches or have any words of wisdom?

Thanks!

Lumpy 245

'81 245, '89 765, '93 245

I installed an earlier 240 hitch on my 245. It's the moulded round tube type. I had to cut twin moon shaped cutouts to accomodate the tubes. I see these hitches on ebay regularly.

Or you can just remove the lower piece and store it, in case you later want to take the hitch off, you can put it back to original.
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-------Robert, '93 940t, '90 240 wagon, '84 240 diesel (she's sick) , '80 245 diesel, '82 Mercedes 300SD

You need to cut a notch out of the rear lower valance at the top where it meets the body, Easy to do with a Construction knife or dremel tool.
The valance can be unscrewed from the body , the hitch fitted and then the valance notched to give a custom fit. Valance is made of 3/16 ABS rubber/plastic and is easy to cut.

Stoney means this:

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'73 142, '75 242, '75 245, '80 245, '83 244, '86 244, '87 745T, 92 244 (for sale)

Yes but mine was closer to the hitch receiver and thus little/no gap at the sides/bottom.