Skoda Fabia Combi (2008-...) Towbar

Vehicle and Technical Specifications

This document provides details for the GDW towbar (Ref. 1691) designed for the Skoda Fabia Combi, model years 2008 onwards.

The towbar meets EEC approval standards.

Technical Data:

• D-Value Calculation: D = (max. towing weight / 9.81) * (max. trailer mass / (max. trailer mass + vehicle mass))
• D-Value: 7.20 KN
• S-Value (Vertical Load): 50 Kg
• Maximum Towing Capacity: 1200 Kg

Towbar Assembly Diagram Description

The towbar assembly consists of a main frame that attaches to the vehicle's chassis beams. It includes supporting arms that connect to specific points on the chassis (labeled 'A' in diagrams). The assembly features a ball hitch for trailer connection and a bracket for the electrical socket plate holder.

Visual representation of the towbar structure, showing its main components and attachment points to the vehicle chassis.

Towbar Composition (Parts List)

Torque Specifications (Nm / kgm):

Quality 8.8 (DIN 912, DIN 931, DIN 933, DIN 7991):

• M6: 10.8 Nm / 1.1 kgm
• M8: 25.5 Nm / 2.60 kgm
• M10: 52.0 Nm / 5.30 kgm
• M12: 88.3 Nm / 9.0 kgm
• M14: 137 Nm / 14.0 kgm
• M16: 211.0 Nm / 21.5 kgm

Quality 8.8 (Alternative values):

• M6: 13.7 Nm / 1.4 kgm
• M8: 35.3 Nm / 3.6 kgm
• M10: 70.6 Nm / 7.20 kgm
• M12: 122.6 Nm / 12.5 kgm
• M14: 194 Nm / 19.8 kgm
• M16: 299.2 Nm / 30.5 kgm

Quality 12.9 (DIN 912, DIN 931, DIN 933, DIN 7991):

• M6: 18 Nm / 1.8 kgm
• M8: 43 Nm / 4.4 kgm
• M10: 87 Nm / 8.9 kgm
• M12: 150 Nm / 15.3 kgm
• M14: 240 Nm / 24.5 kgm
• M16: 370 Nm / 37.7 kgm

Installation Instructions

1. Disassemble the bumper and permanently remove the metal buffer beam. Cut the bumper support in the middle of the vehicle and treat the cut edges with a rust-preventing product.
2. Slide the towbar with the supporting arms into the chassis beams through the openings. Align points (A) with the provided drillings in the side of the chassis beam (these drillings are covered with tape, which must be removed). Insert bolts and washers and tighten firmly according to the specified torque values.
3. Make an incision in the bottom side of the bumper as shown in Drawing 1. Re-assemble the bumper onto the vehicle.
4. Assemble the ball hitch (*), the socket plate holder (-p), and the security shackle (-s). Insert bolts and tighten firmly according to the specified torque values.

To Disassemble the Bumper:

• Remove 3 plastic clips under the bumper.
• Remove 2x3 screws at the splash-board.
• Remove 2x1 screw vertically above the bumper, behind the splash-board.
• Release clips on the sides.
• Remove the light units.
• Remove 2x2 screws under the light units.

Bumper Cut-out Diagram Description (Drawing 1)

Drawing 1 illustrates the area on the bumper that needs to be cut out. The hatched area indicates the section to be removed. The diagram labels are:

• B: The bumper
• O: The lower rim of the bumper
• M: The middle of the bumper

The cut-out dimensions are approximately 85.0 mm and 35.0 mm.

Diagram showing the specific area on the bumper to be excised, with reference points and dimensions.

Important Advice, Warranty, and Usage

General Instructions & Fitting:

• Before starting installation, check the towbar for transport damage and verify it is the correct reference for the vehicle.
• Read and follow the fitting instructions precisely.
• Present the towbar under the vehicle before fitting to ensure correct alignment.
• When drilling holes, check for and avoid damaging any existing wiring, brake lines, or fuel lines. Remove any soundproofing material and treat drilled holes with an anticorrosive product.
• If the vehicle has non-standard bumpers (e.g., special series, sport, tuning parts), consult GDW's technical service before proceeding with installation.

Guarantee:

• Do not exceed the indicated maximum towing weight, 'D' value, or 'S' value.
• The towbar must be checked after the first 1,000 km of use and at least once annually. Checks should include:
  • Checking and retightening all bolt connections if necessary.
  • Repairing any paint damage.
  • Replacing any components that have been damaged due to an accident or collision.
  • Greasing the internal parts of detachable towbar systems.

Usage:

• If the towball covers the number plate or the fog light, it must be removed when the trailer is not attached.

Clearance Specifications

The clearance must comply with Appendix VII, Diagram 30 of guideline 94/20/EG. This ensures adequate space for the towbar's operation and interaction with the vehicle.

Key clearance dimensions and angles include:

• Maximum angles: 30°, 45°
• Minimum clearances: 140mm, 65mm, 32mm, 55mm, 75mm
• Maximum clearance: 100mm
• Radii: max. R14.5, max. R40
• Overall dimensions: 350-420mm

These specifications are important for the permissible total weight of the vehicle.

Diagram detailing required clearances around the towbar assembly, referencing European directive standards.

Contact Information

GDW nv

Hoogmolenwegel 23, B-8790 Waregem, Belgium

Tel: +32 (0)56 60 42 12

Fax: +32 (0)56 60 01 93

Email: gdw@gdwtowbars.com

Website: www.gdwtowbars.com