XC70 Nivomats and a Query About an Alko Hitch Lock

[swedishandgerman]

Hi all,

I was just wondering about the self-levelling suspension since driving my XC70 the other nights with my lights on. I initially lowered the headlight beam thinking the back would be lowered, but soon re-adjusted them to pretty much the normal position.

Is this normal? I saw another XC70 towing a much bigger caravan today and that also didn't appear to be weighed down.

Another thing, I have just fitted an Alko 3004 stabilser which came with a hitchlock. I have been told that you can drive along with the lock fitted and I like this idea for when I have a 5 min stop at the services. However, I have also been told that you're not supposed to as the emergency crew like to be able to unhitch quickly if you have a crash. Is there a rule to this?

[axle4]

yep that's normal

don't think there is a 'rule'. I don't use mine when on the move only when parked.

[Steamdrivenandy]

There is no 'rule' and it's a matter of constant debate on caravan forums, mainly for the reasons you outline.

We never travel with the lock attached because we never leave the rig unattended, mainly because we always have the dogs in the car and we won't leave them.

[Westyman]

I cannot be precise about this, owing to Volvo mucking about with specifications, but for a while, if not always, the XC70 had Nivomats and it was an option on the V70s. I had two V70 AWDs (not XC70s) and had to specify them on order.

[60041]

My old XC70 had Nivomats and, as you have found, the outfit would ride level regardless of the load on the towball.
The use of coupling locks while towing is strongly discouraged by the police because, as others have pointed out, it could cause problems in the event of an accident or emergency. It only takes a few seconds to attach the lock if it is needed for short stops, although I am very reluctant to leave the caravan unattended at motorway service areas as I know people who have had their caravans broken into during 5 minute stops.

[pagan8c]

I have a MY 13 xc70 D5 215 and tow a Lunar 640 twin axle when the van is attached there is very little drop in suspension height. I have self levelling headlights so it is not noticeably different at night.Good tow car.

[skyship007]

If you load the caravan correctly, the download force on the towbar should be minimal. Check the owners towing guide for limits.

Nivomats are real good, BUT expensive to replace.