Ford Ecosport Tow Bar Installation
Model: 09/'15-
Manufacturer: GDW nv
Reference Number: 2126
Contact: GDW nv, Hoogmolenwegel 23, B-8790 Waregem | T +32 (0)56 60 42 12 | F +32 (0)56 60 01 93 | gdw@gdwtowbars.com | www.gdwtowbars.com
Important Advice
Fitting
Before starting the installation, inspect the tow bar for any transport damage and ensure it is the correct model for your vehicle.
Carefully read and follow all instructions provided in this manual.
Present the tow bar under the vehicle to check alignment and ensure all mounting points are correct before drilling or permanent fixing.
If drilling is required, carefully check for and avoid any existing wires (electrical, brake lines, etc.). Remove any soundproofing or bitumen layers from the drilling area. Treat drilled holes and surrounding bodywork with an anti-corrosive product.
If the vehicle is equipped with non-standard bumpers (e.g., special editions, sport packages, tuning modifications), consult GDW technical service before proceeding, as the tow bar may not fit correctly.
The tow bar is often pre-assembled for storage. Disassemble the parts as needed before installation.
Guarantee
To determine your vehicle's maximum towing weight, refer to the Certificate of Conformity (COC) or contact your vehicle dealer. Do not exceed the tow bar's specified limits.
The tow bar requires inspection after the first 1,000 km of use and at least annually thereafter:
- Check all bolts and retighten if necessary.
- Repair any damage to the paint finish.
- Replace any components that have been damaged due to accidents or impacts.
- Lubricate the internal parts of detachable tow bar systems.
Usage
If the towing ball obstructs the number plate or fog light, it must be removed when not in use.
Technical Specifications
To verify your vehicle's maximum trailer weight, consult the Certificate of Conformity (COC) or your vehicle dealer. The tow bar's specifications must not be exceeded.
D-Value and S-Value
D = (max kg * max kg) / (max kg + max kg) * 0.00981 ≤ 5.35 kN
S = 65 kg (Maximum vertical load on the ball)
Maximum towing weight: 750 kg
Torque Values
| Bolt Size | Grade 8.8 | Grade 10.9 | Grade 12.9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| M6 | 11.3 Nm | 16.5 Nm | 19.3 Nm |
| M8 | 27.3 Nm | 40.1 Nm | 46.9 Nm |
| M10 | 54.0 Nm | 79.0 Nm | 93.0 Nm |
| M12 | 57.0 Nm (1.25) | 83.0 Nm (1.25) | 98.0 Nm (1.25) |
| M12 | 93.0 Nm (1.75) | 137.0 Nm (1.75) | 160.0 Nm (1.75) |
| M14 | 97.0 Nm (1.5) | 143.0 Nm (1.5) | 167.0 Nm (1.5) |
| M14 | 101.0 Nm (1.25) | 149.0 Nm (1.25) | 174.0 Nm (1.25) |
| M16 | 148.0 Nm (1.75) | 218.0 Nm (1.75) | 255.0 Nm (1.75) |
| M16 | 159.0 Nm (1.5) | 234.0 Nm (1.5) | 274.0 Nm (1.5) |
| M16 | 230.0 Nm (2) | 320.0 Nm (2) | 395.0 Nm (2) |
Parts List
The following parts are supplied with the tow bar kit (GDW REF. 2126):
| Item | GDW Ref. | Part Number/Description | Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2126 | Main Tow Bar Assembly | x1 |
| 2 | 944.M106 | Tow Ball Mount | x1 |
| 3 | GDW REF. 2 | x1 | |
| 4 | GDW REF. 3 | x1 | |
| 5 | GDW REF. 4 | Ø 21.3 X 11.7 | x2 |
| 6 | GDW REF. 5 | x1 | |
| 7 | GDW REF. 6 | x1 | |
| 8 | GDW REF. 7 | x1 | |
| 9 | DIN933-M10 x 30 | x4 | |
| 10 | DIN933-M10 x 35 | x6 | |
| 11 | DIN9021-M12-ELVZ Ø30 x 10 x 2.5 | x4 | |
| 12 | DIN128A-M10 | x10 | |
| 13 | DIN125-A10-140HV-ELVZ Ø10.5 x 20 x 2 | x6 | |
| 14 | DIN934-M10 | x6 | |
| 15 | GDW REF. 900.025 | x1 | |
| 16 | GDW REF. 900.026 | x1 | |
| 17 | DIN931 M12 x 70 | x4 | |
| 18 | DIN985 M12 | x4 | |
| 19 | GDW REF. 900.011 | x2 | |
| 20 | GDW REF. 900.053 | x1 | |
| 26 | 944.M106 | Tow Ball | x1 |
| 27 | GDW REF. P07 | Tow Ball Retaining Pin & Clip | x1 |
Installation Steps
The following diagrams illustrate the step-by-step process for fitting the tow bar to the Ford Ecosport.
Step 1: Initial Attachment
Diagram showing the rear of the Ford Ecosport vehicle with arrows indicating attachment points on the chassis. Diagram showing a side view of the towbar assembly.Step 2: Mounting Brackets
Diagram showing the vehicle chassis with mounting brackets (parts 5, 7) and bolts (parts 6, 4) being attached.Step 3: Attaching Main Frame
Diagram showing the main tow bar frame (part 1) being positioned. Close-up views show attachment using bolts (parts 8, 11, 10) and nuts/washers (parts 3, 6). Illustration showing the use of tool 17 (likely a wrench).Step 4: Securing Main Frame
Diagram showing the main tow bar frame (part 1) fully attached to the vehicle chassis. Mounting points are secured with parts 0, 12, 11, 13, 9, 2. Illustration showing the use of tool 17.Step 5: Bumper Modification (if applicable)
Diagram showing the rear bumper with measurements (50mm, 40mm, 65mm) indicating a potential cut-out or clearance area. Illustration showing a tool (likely a cutting tool) for bumper modification.Step 6: Bumper Clearance
Diagram showing a side view of the bumper with measurements (15mm, 25mm, 50mm) indicating clearance for the tow bar. Illustration showing a tool (likely a cutting tool).Step 7: Attaching Tow Ball Mount
Diagram showing the rear of the vehicle with the tow bar frame. Attachment of the tow ball mount (A) using bolts (C, D, E) and nuts (B). Illustration showing the use of tool 19 (likely a wrench).Step 26: Attaching Tow Ball
Diagram showing the tow ball assembly (A) being attached to the mount. Parts used include 944.M106 (a), DIN931 M12 x 70 (b), DIN985 M12 (c), GDW REF.900.053 (-s). Illustration showing the use of tool 19.Clearance Requirements
The clearance must be maintained in accordance with Annex VII, diagram 25 (a,b) of regulation nr. 55.
This ensures proper functionality and safety.
Diagram illustrating clearance angles (e.g., 45°, 65°, 30°) and dimensions (e.g., 140mm, 32mm, 100mm, 65mm, 250mm) relative to the tow ball and vehicle.This clearance is important for the vehicle's total laden weight.
Clearance must be guaranteed for:
- Maximum trailer weight of the vehicle.
- Total permissible weight of the vehicle.
