Odd question: anybody convert their XC70 to 2WD?
 

I'm interested in buying an XC70, but since we only drive about 5k a year on vacation, we don't need anything expensive. We love the form-factor of the XC70: its size is huge inside (big enough3 kids) but the exterior dimensions won't make it the defining feature outside our house.

Anyway, my father knows the service manager of a Volvo dealership and he says to be cautious of any XC70 that has the viscous coupling rear end. Apparently they updated the system a few times but made a major update sometime in 2003. This guy said that they may not last 5 years' driving (esp. if the tires are not exactly matching, i.e. if someone replaces JUST a blownout tire) so pre-2003 cars have more than their fair share of $3k+ bills to fix. I asked this guy if it was possible to detach the rear-end and turn the vehicle into a 2WD car in order to save myself a few thousand dollars... he said he didn't see any reason why not.

Has anybody successfully converted their XC70 to 2WD as the result of avoiding a massive repair bill?

Thanks.

RE: Odd question: anybody convert their XC70 to 2WD?
 

1. I doubt anyone has.

2. Why don't you just buy a regular V70 that is just FWD?

By just buying a regular V70 FWD model your getting exactly what you want.

RE: Odd question: anybody convert their XC70 to 2WD?
 

It can probably be done, but why? If it aint broke, don't fix it.

RE: Odd question: anybody convert their XC70 to 2WD?
 

Anything can be done yes. But it will cost a lot of money. So why not just buy a FWD model V70 and be done with it.

RE: Odd question: anybody convert their XC70 to 2WD?
 

All you have to do is remove the driveshaft. Look under the car and you can see it.

It can be done
 

I do it every summer on my 1999 v70 xc. it's as simple as removing the driveshaft. it saves big time on gas $.

I did remove my rear drive shaft and made my XC70 a 2WD. This was probably the best thing I have done to this car to prolong it's life. Better milage, less strain on the transmission, better fuel economy, and better acceleration. No more rear end worries. I too liked the look and room of the XC70 and got rid of my 2WD V70. I also live an area where I do not need an all wheel drive car.