[FranandPat]

I know it isn't rated to tow and warranty issues "could" arise etc, etc, etc, but...

Since my attempt at volt camping fell short with the tent that doesn't actually fit the Volt despite the mfg saying it does (look for voltebago in the forum), I came across a trailer that I'm pretty sure the car can handle with ease. http://www.golittleguy.com/model?id=36&model=MyPod-Basic

The company states it has a tongue weight of 70# and a curb weight of 580#. Very much on the petite side of things. While I'm certain the car could handle it I'm a bit flummoxed on the question of a hitch. Most of the threads I can find refer to bike racks and such. No one seems to have used their car for actual towing or at least they haven't confessed to it. (I did find a review from a VOLT 1 on the torklift site that seems to be towing a 4000# boat. Love to hear from you!)

Anyway, there are a few hitches out there from Curt and Torklift and a few others. Curt seems the most common but half of the mount is actually through the trunk bottom. For a receiver and bike rack they may be OK but I don't think actually towing anything is wise. The Torklift eco hitch seems the ticket but I'm afraid the installation may be too much for my limited tools and ability.

Anyway, what I'm looking for is whether to pursue this any further or not. Seems odd the machine is built like a tank but no tow rating at all. I know it will affect electric range but after all these years there must be some information as to just what may or may not be affected by this (besides the warranty of course). Chime in please.

 

[llninja]

What part of No do you not understand? Technically, you can tow anything with anything, but weight is a concern. Driving characteristics with the weight is a big concern. Any weight behind the rear wheels means less traction on the front.

And here's an extreme example of what not to do

https://youtu.be/lAfZ1N56qjY

 

[2VoltFamily]

The Curt has a good price on Amazon $104 shipped and that includes the old style ball mount. But from you post I am now wondering about how it connects. Most of the post say it was easy installation. but if it attaches through the trunk would that be strong enough. I need to find an online manual to see what it shows. I wanted to have one on both of my Volts for light stuff.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0072UHJ2...TF8&colid=1UKT5CHM2BRQ1&coliid=I260T8HSVZ5QQC

 

[KenC]

I'd think the Volt should be able to handle that little aero thing just fine. It even has nice alloy rims!

I've seen a DrawTite Gen2 trailer hitch at etrailer.com that had a 2000lb rating. Didn't look any better than the Curt or Torklift, but it had a higher tow rating.

 

[FranandPat]

still laughing at that video. Yea, a bit extreme.

 

[2VoltFamily]

Holy cow. The Torklift would require taking it to a shop and costs 3 times what the Curt costs. I think I will stick with the Curt after seeing the photo series in the link below.

http://gm-volt.com/forum/showthread.php?11595-Photos-of-Torklift-Invisi-Eco-Hitch-install

 

[2VoltFamily]

Found this Video on Torklift install. If you knew how hard it was to get the bumper fascia off it could be accomplished at home.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJpTHIbdv9g

 

[2VoltFamily]

Just visited the Torklift site. They have two models, one that is hidden and requires bumper removal. The other bolts on from below and does not require bumper removal. Both appear to be bolt on with no drilling.

Also the one that does not require bumper removal does not require you to cut a hole in the bumper fascia.

 

[Scarlett1]

VoltShop to the rescue! Get the hitch you like, Fran. Then bring Ruby over to the VoltShop. In one of my past lives, I was a trailer hitch mechanic. Not hard to do and I have everything we need for the job. Some of the designs can be interesting, but they wont make something that doesn't do what they rate it for. Wiring shouldn't be an issue, either. It will be another good adventure before your next great adventure.

Steve

 

[FranandPat]

Ya know Scarlett old pal, I was gonna PM you and see if you knew anything about this. Feeling better already. I will PM you tomorrow when we see if we're going to seal the deal at the RV show on the trailer or dawdle a bit and haggle as all car and trailer things require!

 

[Ringo6702]

I've got the hidden hitch on my list. I like the fact that it's hidden (which will avoid questions from the dealer on my annual visits)
I think it's also got the best connection points, and sits higher up. I think Volts with hitches below the reverse light look goofy.

The Volt is a heavy car, it will tow a small trailer just fine. The brakes are oversized because of the weight, even though regen does most of the stopping.

Keep the tongue weight down, drive sensibly, and you'll be just fine.

 

[FranandPat]

That's the way I'm leaning. Not so much for stealthiness or anything but more for the height of the hitch. Thanks to everyone for the replies.

 

[loborojo]

I installed a torklift stealth today. It was not too bad as long as you are careful with fishing the bolts. I chose the stealth over the invisi because the lower hitch point (plus I was afraid of removing the bumper). The torklift is rated for 200# and let me say that thing is beefy. I do not plan on towing but wanted it for bike racks and cargo carrier.

Please note you can remove the receiver from the stealth when not needed and so it is "hidden" with not affecting the clearance.

 

[wizard_of-ahs]

What part of No do you not understand? Technically, you can tow anything with anything, but weight is a concern. Driving characteristics with the weight is a big concern. Any weight behind the rear wheels means less traction on the front.

And here's an extreme example of what not to do

https://youtu.be/lAfZ1N56qjY

Love that vid.............thanks

 

[Scarlett1]

Ya know Scarlett old pal, I was gonna PM you and see if you knew anything about this. Feeling better already. I will PM you tomorrow when we see if we're going to seal the deal at the RV show on the trailer or dawdle a bit and haggle as all car and trailer things require!

Get the show special and run! When ever you are ready, we'll get it done. You'll be the test candidate for my next big thing...

 

[Joe67]

What part of No do you not understand? Technically, you can tow anything with anything, but weight is a concern. Driving characteristics with the weight is a big concern. Any weight behind the rear wheels means less traction on the front.

And here's an extreme example of what not to do

https://youtu.be/lAfZ1N56qjY

x2. There is much more to it than capacity. What about braking? Making emergency maneuvers while towing a trailer like that?
I'd much rather use the right tool for the job personally than put my, and other, families at risk.

 

[Roostre]

x2. There is much more to it than capacity. What about braking? Making emergency maneuvers while towing a trailer like that?
I'd much rather use the right tool for the job personally than put my, and other, families at risk.

580lbs is 2 fat guys in the car. Yes, it will change dynamics some, but by slowing down and using more cautionary driving style a trailer that light shouldn't be much of an issue.

However, if your wife is like mine... that trailer will be loaded to double the rated weight and now you are probably getting past the safe threshold.