Curt Hitch for a 2000 XC70

dbarklund · Post by **dbarklund** » 05 Feb 2011, 17:44

Hello!

I'm planning on moving cross country (CA to MO) in 4 months and I'm investigating the possibility of installing a trailer hitch. I will be renting a Uhaul trailer.

Has anyone ever installed the Curt Hitch (12211) before? Some websites say drilling is required, but when I look at the instruction sheet on the website it says "some sedans may require drilling through these bottom inboard holes into bumper bracket and bumper for end clearance of bolts."

I have very few tools on hand, and no drill to make a hole. If anyone has made this installation before, can you let me know how it went and if you needed to drill?

Thanks a lot!

cdnbluez · Post by **cdnbluez** » 05 Feb 2011, 17:55

You have to drill only when installing on a sedan. With a wagon you won't have to drill. On the wagon the rear bumper support is farther from the end of the frame rail, so the bolt doesn't interfere. With sedans the fit is tighter, and requires drilling.

dbarklund · Post by **dbarklund** » 05 Feb 2011, 21:46

Excellent! Thanks for the information. I will be ordering this and installing it, then!

dbarklund · Post by **dbarklund** » 05 Feb 2011, 23:59

One more question -- I will repost under a new topic if nobody takes a look at this.

Do I need to install a transmission oil cooler for hauling a small 4'x6' trailer from California to Missouri? The trailer weighs 850 pounds empty, and I probably won't put more than 500-750 pounds in it. The car would also be loaded with my belongings.

Sorry to ask such newbie questions...I'm still pretty new at this!

cdnbluez · Post by **cdnbluez** » 06 Feb 2011, 09:01

I'm pretty sure all S/V70's come equipped with tranny oil coolers.

Post by **FlyingVolvo** » 06 Feb 2011, 09:04

They do, however being directly a part of the whole radiator/oil cooler assembly, they aren't as effective on very hot days. I think the best thing you could do would be to get rid of your transmission fluid and replace it with Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF. It will hold up to heat much better than most conventional fluids.

dbarklund · Post by **dbarklund** » 06 Feb 2011, 10:31

@cdnbluez: Thanks...I didn't know if I need to install an additional cooling system. From what I have been reading, it sounds like it is highly recommended for older/smaller cars to install one of these if you are going to be hauling anything.

@ecbsykes: Thanks -- I will look into that.

cdnbluez · Post by **cdnbluez** » 06 Feb 2011, 10:48

I tow a pop-up camping trailer with my '01 nonturbo, probably 1800-2000 pounds when loaded (and 4 bikes on top), and I haven't experienced any problems. Just make sure your tranny fluid is clean.