I was looking on SuperSkoda for a set of dampers for the bonnet and it asks the question in the title... anyone have any ideas what it's about and whether a 2016 mk3 that's just been built would have it?

 

Thanks

airbags in the bonnet isn't it in case you hit some numpty who walks out in front of you.

There are two contrasting pictures on the Superskoda website to explain, but I've just fitted mine a few days ago, there's none on mine as far as I can see. 

 

By the way, you will need a reasonably large Torx bit/tool (sorry, I can't remember what size, I was just lucky to have one :p ) to remove the bonnet hinge bolts to secure the new fittings for the dampers, and some washers for the bolts, as they are not included.

 

They do work well though, as long as you don't mind lifting them the first foot or so.

By the way, you will need a reasonably large Torx bit/tool (sorry, I can't remember what size, I was just lucky to have one :p ) to remove the bonnet hinge bolts to secure the new fittings for the dampers, and some washers for the bolts, as they are not included.

 

They do work well though, as long as you don't mind lifting them the first foot or so.

Torx bits have 6 splines.

The bit you need has 12 splines (or points) in M10 size - like this - http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/M10-SPLINE-BIT-12-Point-Socket-10mm-Hex-Drive-30mm-long-/110640243135

You will find that it is a very tight fit and has to be tapped into the bolt because of paint in the recess. Make sure the bit is all the way into the bolt head before attempting to slacken it. If the bit slips in the bolt head it will chew the recess up and you'll have a h*** of a job trying to loosen it!

 

BTW The Superskoda struts are excellent.

Skoda seemed to stop fitting the active hood hinges after the first year of production or so, 2013.

Maybe they put insurance ratings up, as they are quite expensive to replace if used.

I do not have time now for a proper instructable, but if you can wait a while I can put together one and give you info on what I did.

A thing worth noting - make sure the struts you use are not too strong (some people here suggested 500N). I have 320N (L=525mm F=320N from Seat Ibiza) and I would say even 220...240N (e.g. L=525mm F=240N from Saab 9 3) would be fine/smoother.

I made a calculation that brought 190N minimum, but even a single 320N can almost hold it.

To remove the screws I used Torx T50 size.

Edited 24 May, 201610 yr by wlange