Skoda Rapid Spaceback Tow Bar Fitting Instructions
Model: 10/'13-
Brand: GDW
Part Number: 2001
Manufacturer: GDW nv. Hoogmolenwegel 23 | B | 8790 Waregem
General Advice, Guarantee, and Usage
General Advice
- Before starting the installation, check the tow bar for any transport damage.
- Carefully read and follow all instructions in this manual.
- Present the tow bar under the vehicle before commencing the installation to ensure correct fitment.
- When drilling holes, ensure no existing wiring or brake lines are damaged. Remove any soundproofing or bitumen layers. Treat drilled holes and chassis parts with an anti-corrosive paint.
- If the vehicle is equipped with non-standard bumpers (e.g., special series, sport versions, tuning parts), consult GDW technical service to confirm compatibility.
- The tow bar supplied is assembled for storage; ensure all parts are disassembled before installation.
Guarantee
- To determine the correct towing weight for your vehicle, refer to the Certificate of Conformity (COC) or contact your dealer. Do not exceed the tow bar's technical specifications.
- The tow bar must be checked after the first 1,000 km of use and at least once a year.
- Check all bolt connections and retighten if necessary.
- Repair any damage to the paint finish.
- Replace any components damaged due to an accident or collision.
- Grease the internal parts of detachable tow bar systems.
Usage
- If the towing ball obstructs the license plate or fog light, it must be removed when not in use.
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Weight Limits
Refer to the Certificate of Conformity (COC) of your vehicle or contact your dealer to verify the maximum trailer weight of your car.
D-Value Calculation: D = (max kg x max kg) / 0.00981 ≤ 8 kN
S-Value (Vertical load on ball): S = 75 kg
Maximum Trailer Weight: 1500 kg
Torque Specifications
| Bolt Grade | M6 | M8 | M10 | M12 | M14 | M16 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.8 | 10.4 Nm | 25.0 Nm | 51.0 Nm | 87.0 Nm | 140.0 Nm | 215.0 Nm |
| 10.9 | 15.5 Nm | 37.0 Nm | 75.0 Nm | 130.0 Nm | 205.0 Nm | 310. Nm |
| 12.9 | 18.0 Nm | 43.0 Nm | 87.0 Nm | 150.0 Nm | 240.0 Nm | 370.0 Nm |
Required Tools
Tools shown include: TX20 screwdriver, TX25 screwdriver, 10mm, 13mm, 17mm, 19mm socket wrenches, and a torque wrench.
Parts List
The following components are supplied with the tow bar kit:
| Item | GDW Ref. | Description | Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2001 | Main Tow Bar Beam | x1 |
| 2 | GDW REF. 2 | Left Tow Bar Bracket | x1 |
| 3 | GDW REF. 3 | Right Tow Bar Bracket | x1 |
| 4 | DIN9021-M10-ELVZ | Washer (Ø 30 x 10.5 x 2.5) | x4 |
| 5 | DIN125A-M10-ELVZ | Washer | x2 |
| 6 | DIN128A-M10 | Spring Washer | x6 |
| 7 | DIN933-M10x35 | Bolt | x4 |
| 8 | DIN934-M10 | Nut | x2 |
| 9 | DIN931-M10 x 45 | Bolt | x2 |
| A | T45M000 | Tow Ball | x1 |
| B | GDW REF. 800053 | Nut | x1 |
| C | GDW REF. 800011 | Washer (Ø 21.3 x 11.7) | x2 |
| D | DIN931-M12 x 70 | Bolt | x4 |
| E | DIN985-M12 | Nut | x4 |
| -P | GDW REF. PO4 | Locking Pin | x1 |
| -S | GDW REF. 800008 | Locking Mechanism | x1 |
Fitting Instructions
Step 1: Remove Tail Lights
Diagram shows the rear of the Skoda Rapid Spaceback. Step 1 illustrates removing the left and right tail lights. A tool, possibly a trim removal tool, is shown. Step 2 shows the tail lights removed, with arrows indicating the direction of removal.
Step 2: Remove Rear Bumper Cover
Diagram shows the rear of the Skoda Rapid Spaceback with the trunk open. Step 3 illustrates removing the rear bumper cover. Arrows indicate pulling outwards from the sides. A TX25 screwdriver is shown. Step 4 shows the bumper cover removed, revealing mounting points. Close-up views show screws being removed with a TX25 screwdriver.
Step 3: Remove Bumper Reinforcement
Diagram shows the rear of the Skoda Rapid Spaceback with the bumper removed. Step 5 illustrates removing the original bumper reinforcement bar. Arrows indicate loosening bolts. A 13mm socket wrench is shown. Step 6 shows the bumper reinforcement removed, revealing mounting points on the vehicle chassis. Bolts and nuts are shown being attached.
Step 4: Attach Tow Bar Brackets
Diagram shows the rear of the Skoda Rapid Spaceback with the bumper reinforcement removed. Step 7 illustrates attaching the tow bar brackets (Items 2 & 3) to the vehicle chassis. Arrows indicate the placement of brackets and bolts. A 17mm socket wrench is shown. Close-up views show specific bolts (Items 6, 7, 10) and nuts (Items 1, 2, 4) being used.
Step 9 continues attaching tow bar brackets to the chassis. Arrows indicate bolt placement. A 17mm socket wrench is shown. Close-up views show bolts (Items 1, 3, 7, 6, 4) and nuts (Items 9, 5) being used.
Step 5: Attach Main Tow Bar Beam
Diagram shows the rear of the Skoda Rapid Spaceback. Step 10 illustrates attaching the main tow bar beam (Item 1) to the previously installed brackets. Arrows indicate alignment and bolt placement. A 17mm socket wrench is shown. Close-up views show bolts (Items 7, 6, 4) and nuts (Items 9, 6, 5, 8) being used.
Step 11 continues attaching the main tow bar beam. Close-up views show bolts (Items 9, 6, 4, 7) and nuts (Items 5, 6, 8) being used with a 17mm socket wrench.
Step 12 shows the final attachment of the main tow bar beam, securing it with bolts (Items 7, 6, 4) and nuts (Items 9, 6, 5, 8) using a 17mm socket wrench.
Step 6: Re-attach Bumper
Diagram shows the rear bumper being re-attached. Step 13 illustrates the bumper being placed back onto the vehicle. An arrow indicates sliding it into position. A diagram shows dimensions for a potential cut-out in the bumper: 90mm, 75mm, 20mm, 65mm, 25mm, 50mm. Step 14 shows the bumper fully re-attached.
Step 7: Attach Tow Ball Assembly
Diagram shows the rear of the Skoda Rapid Spaceback with the bumper re-attached. Step 15 illustrates re-attaching the tail lights. Arrows indicate pushing them back into place. Step 16 shows the tow ball assembly (Items A, B, C, D, E, -P, -S) being attached to the tow bar. A 19mm socket wrench is shown. Components are labelled: A (Tow Ball), B (Nut), C (Washer), D (Bolt), E (Nut), -P (Locking Pin), -S (Locking Mechanism).
An additional diagram shows alternative tow ball options.
Step 8: Final Checks
Diagrams show a steering wheel and dashboard area with warning symbols and a manual, indicating potential electrical connections or final safety checks are required.
Clearance and Weight Considerations
Diagrams illustrate clearance requirements and vehicle weight limits. The first diagram shows angles and distances (e.g., 140mm, 32mm, 100mm, 65mm, 250mm, 15°, 30°, 45°, 65°, 75°, R14.5, R40) related to the tow bar and vehicle body. Text explains these clearances must conform to regulation nr. 55.
The second diagram illustrates vehicle weight calculations and limits:
- D-Value: D = (max kg x max kg) / 0.00981 ≤ 8 kN
- S-Value (Vertical load on ball): S = 75 kg
- Maximum Trailer Weight: 1500 kg
These specifications are provided for the vehicle's total laden weight.
