Would appreciate responses from folks with first-hand knowledge of

wiring up an V70/850 Wagon for trailering/towing. I installed a Volvo trailer hitch on our 1996 850 wagon and wanted to know what my options are as far as wiring. Volvo has a wiring kit for $113, with an additional converter for $32. The Volvo kit is a special order one and the parts person was unable to tell me how, or where it attaches to the main harness. My questions are: How easy is it to install Volvo's kit? What about universal kits from towing/trailering outfits?

Thanks,

meb

On my 1994 855T, I used the conversion kit from U-haul. I believe it was about $30 $Cdn. It includes indicator lights on the connector to check light function/status!

I lifted the cargo floor and also the 2 panels on either side of the cargo floor to gain access to the wiring. While you have the right side one off, check the filter for the rear window washer...

With this all out of the way, I was able to clip onto the wires quite conveniently.

I replaced the panels and left the flat wire with connector on the end loose under the cargo floor. When I need to connect, I lift the cargo floor, pull out the connector and cable, lower the cargo floor on top of it and just dangle it out the back of the vehicle (the tailgate simply compresses the wire into the rubber strip.

Low cost

easy to do

seems robust

What's not to like?

Nielsen

Paul,

Thanks, I will look into it but I have some concerns about the OBDII system and computer(s).

meb

meb,

I just read a towing handbook last week with pages of illistrations and advice. They talked about the number of pins needed depending on the spec of the car ie: European, American, electric brakes on trailer etc....they also mentioned the importance of the wiring to bypass the computer as computers have been known to crash because of the extra wiring, They suggested wiring directly to the battery. Bottom line...Volvos being not your "average" car (MO) I would leave it to the pros and take whatever advice they give...

Tony,

Thanks for the response. I checked with a local RV/trailer specialist and they also told me that the car needed to be directly wired from the battery to avoid computer problems. I'll check with a couple of other places, but it looks like I'll use a pro. If the computer is going to fry, I'll rather it be on their watch. It sure was easier wiring up my 245 years ago, didn't need no stinking computers.

meb

Meb,

I agonized over this one too. Finally went to my local dealer. He said sure we can order the factory kit for over $100. Then you will need conversion wiring to match the typical U.S. plugs (4 pole flat or 7 pole round). Or.... we can install a U.S. made aftermarket item from the

'Drawtite' company for under $20 plus one hour labor. I had them perform the task and the setup works great. You should visit an RV or trailer supply store to engineer the type of mounting bracket you want to use before installation or the wire assembly will just dangle from the rear of the car. Tacky!

Rob,

Thanks for the response. I called the local dealer and they wanted $295 for installing the wiring harness. Here I was, thinking I had done the heavy work installing the trailer hitch myself, silly me!!

meb