Can Weight Distribution Be Used With 2000 Volvo V70

Question:

Do I need a weight distribution system for my trailer? Im pulling a Casita Patriot, one axle, dry weight 1880lb. 13foot long, fiberglass. I dont have it together yet but what I read online leads me to believe the tongue weight might be 200lb. But thats just the best guess I can find online. Im pulling it with a Volvo xc70 awd with a tow capacity of 3300lb. The thing that worries me is the tongue capacity listed in the volvo owners manual is only 165lb. If Im over by 35 lbs will a weight distribution system over compensate and send too much weight to the front? Also, after I get my hitch on my volvo, can I add a weight distributor? Dont I need to put on the entire ball mount and ball and weigh it to find out?

asked by: Suzanne

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you are planning on towing with your 2000 Volvo V70, you will not want to exceed the towing weight capacity or tongue weight capacity listed in your owner's manual. Doing so can cause damage to the vehicle, along with creating an unsafe condition.

The hitches we offer for your Volvo are all Class ll hitches and have 1-1/4 inch receiver openings, like part # C12211 and part # 36262. None of the weight distribution systems will work with a 1-1/4 inch receiver.

The only recommendation I can make would be to see if you can shift gear around and place it near the rear of your trailer so that you take the weight off the tongue, but that can cause trailer sway when towing and that is not ideal when towing.

To avoid sway when towing, I recommend part # 83660. This can be used to reduce trailer sway and improve handling in adverse towing conditions. This unit dampens trailer sway caused by crosswinds and traffic for improved stability and increased towing safety.

I have attached some helpful articles about towing you may want to check out.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L