Brake Controller and Towing Accessories for 2003 Volvo XC70

Question:

Hello Ive a 17 1992 Viking Northwind hard-sided pop-up trailer that Id like to pull with a 2003 Volvo XC70 3300 lbs towing capacity with 2.5 I-5 intercooled turbo. Could you provide recommendations for a hitch 90804?, brake controller and wiring adapter 119179KIT? for this combination, please? Specifically, I see that the only controller listed for 2003 Volvos is recommended for the XC90 will this work with the XC70 as well? Thank you for your time. Regards

asked by: Ken H

Expert Reply:

Before installing the hitch or attempting to tow the pop-up, you will need to determine the fully loaded weight and tongue weight of the trailer to ensure that it does not exceed the stated capacity of the vehicle or the hitch.

If you consult the provided diagram, you can see how this would be done. Completing this step is very important to avoid causing damage to your vehicle. In my research, I found several different dry weights listed for your camper that ranged from 2300 to 3000 lbs.

Once you confirm that the weight of the camper will not exceed the capabilities of the Volvo, you will need the # C59496 wiring harness that you mentioned, a brake controller and our Brake Controller Install Kit.

A brake controller is not a vehicle-specific item, so you can choose virtually any controller you wish. If you are not planning on towing the camper frequently, a simple controller like the the Tekonsha PowerTrac, part # 39523 would be a good choice. For more frequent towing and optimal braking performance, a proportional controller like the Prodigy P2, part # 90885 would be a better choice. Two different install kits are offered, if your camper has the 6-way trailer connector, use # ETBC6 or # ETBC7 for a 7-way connector. The kits contain everything necessary to install a controller.

The Draw-Tite Class II receiver you mentioned, part # 36297 would be an excellent choice for you. The draw bar and pin and clip are sold separately as part # 36061 and you will also need the appropriately sized trailer ball to match the coupler on your camper. For a 2 inch trailer ball, use part # 19258 or part # 19257 for a 1-7/8 inch ball. The correct ball size should be stamped into the trailer coupler.

I have provided links to the parts I have recommended, as well as links to install details, FAQ articles and install videos that you might find helpful. The video showing the ETBC7 being used features a different vehicle, but the video provides a good run-down of the install procedure.