Well, Since the trailer thread has opened again, I promised some pictures and here they are. I don't know why I get so involved with a simple task and function but I asked a friend for help and he came up with this solution. I wanted a trailer hitch and I want a bumper. AND I don't want both! I wanted each. So the solution was to connect directly to the rear axle with U Bolts thereby towing very low and eliminating sheet metal connection and metal fatigue. I wanted it very strong so I can tow cars on 2 wheel dollies, and I wanted a bumper that looked nice. So he came up with this application. Definitely overkill but exactly what I had hoped for. I have towed a 122 30 miles with hills and highways and the bumper looks nice. Take a look at the pictures on the website and you will see the components at the bottom of the page with the finished hitch and bumper pictures at the top.
http://www.georger.com/volvo_hitch.htm
Christopher "Virgilthevolvo V2" Georger

You know, I'm finally starting to realize your vision and appreciate it. Most people, including myself, don't have the huevos to cut up a 444 and put a 140 front suspension underneath the thing. The fact that you're actually driving these creations every day gives absolute creedence to your vision and ability to implement it. A guy can point and snicker at fiberglass fenders and custom grilles but I really appreciate your ability to "Get-er-Done"... Volvo style.

--
Volvo Farmer:

21 Volvos '58-'91

445-544-122-144-1800-240-740

sorry, no FWD

That's an interesting idea/adaptation. What material is the body of the U clamps made from? Any chance they could harm the axle tubes?
The bumper is pretty cool. The two open uprights look like they might accept a custom overrider, or maybe a fabricated bike rack, either one made from pipe and retained by pins and hitch clips. You've got me thinking.

Thanks for the follow-up. An impressive amount of engineering and fabrication went into that one. I prefer to keep my car more conventional looking, so this wouldn't be the route for me, but I certainly appreciate its merits in the light of your objectives. Nice job, as always!
Bob S.

So..what does U-Haul think of you using their towbar pieces to make a hitch?

;-)

Looks strong!

I didn't ask...But I will powder coat it and the decal will ne eliminated. The hitch was purchased on ebay for $10.00 plus $17.50 shipping (fit a 1976 Impala). I think that's a good starting point and I already had the ball and slider thing.

Christopher