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From your owner's manual:
When preparing for trailer hauling, observe the following:
Use a trailer hitch which meets Federal Safety Standards for rear end collisions (FMVSS 301-75). For trailer weights exceeding 2,000 lbs (908 kgs) use only a trailer hitch offered as a Genuine Volvo Accessory.
Maximum trailer weight recommended by Volvo is 3,300 lbs (1,500 kg).
However, for cars with automatic transmission, an optional Volvo automatic transmission oil cooler must be installed when trailer weight exceeds 2,000 lbs (908 kgs). With manual transmission, 5th gear should not be used while towing. Observe legal requirements of the state in which the vehicles are registered.
All Volvo models are equipped with energy absorbing shock mounted bumpers. Trailer hitch installation should not interfere with the proper operation of the bumper system.
Caution:
Bumper-attached trailer hitches must not be used on Volvos, nor should safety chains be attached to the bumper. Trailer hitches attaching to the vehicle rear axle must not be used.
Caution:
Never connect a trailer's hydraulic brake system directly to the vehicle brake system, nor a trailer's lighting system directly to the vehicle lighting system. Consult your nearest authorized Volvo dealer for correct installation.
Trailer hauling does not normally present any particular problems, but take into consideration:
Recommended hitch tongue load is 110 lbs (50 kgs) for trailer weights below 2,650 lbs (1,200 kgs) and 143-154 lbs (65-70 kgs) for trailer weights above 2,650 lbs (1,200 kgs). However, it must not exceed 200 lbs (90 kgs).
For trailer weights between 2,650-3,300 lbs (1,200-1,500 kgs) a top speed of 50 mph (80 km/h) should never be exceeded.
Engine and transmission are subject to increased loads. Therefore, engine coolant temperature should be closely watched when driving in hot climate or hilly terrain. Use lower gear and turn off air conditioner if temperature gauge pointer enters the red range.
Avoid overload and other abusive operation.
Hauling a trailer affects handling, durability and economy. Trailer air dam (Volvo accessory) will improve mileage.
It is necessary to balance trailer brakes with the towing vehicle brakes to provide a safe stop (check and observe State regulations).
More frequent vehicle maintenance is required.
Remove the ball and drawbar assembly when the hitch is not being used.
Note: Refer to section entitled "Automatic transmission" for additional trailer hauling tips.
Disengaging 4th gear
The transmission will engage 4th gear automatically after upshifting through first, second and third gears unless the disengagement button on the side of the gear selector knob is pushed.
When the button is pushed to disengage 4th gear, the transmission operates as a 3-speed unit. If the button is pushed while 4th gear is engaged, then a downshift to 3rd gear will occur. The transmission, then, cannot upshift to 4th gear until the button is pushed again. As a reminder, when 4th gear is disengaged, the indicator light ( ) in the instrument panel is illuminated. Be aware that, if 4th gear is disengaged (reminder light illuminated) when the engine is switched off, the transmission will revert automatically to 4-speed operation (reminder light not illuminated) when the engine is restarted. Disengage 4th gear (reminder light illuminated) when:
* towing a trailer
* driving on hilly roads where precise speed control is desired.
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Do not forget, when you load up the car to the roof, subtract that weight from the trailer allowance. If you encounter long uphills, down shift to keep the tranny cooler. Find a truck that is doing the same speed you want to do and follow it at about 300ft. It is always better to be slow than drive in the left lane and worry about engine/tranny failure. Don't forget your tire pressure,
And good luck,
Klaus
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The more I learn, the more I forget. So why learn?
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