2017 Volvo VNL Towing Capacity & Payload

Quick Answer

The 2017 Volvo VNL is primarily designed for heavy-duty commercial hauling, and its "towing capacity" is more accurately described in terms of its Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) for its tractor-trailer applications. Unlike light-duty trucks, the concept of a single "max tow capacity" as typically understood for recreational towing does not directly apply. Payload refers to the maximum weight the truck can carry, including its own body, cargo, and driver, while the "towing capacity" is integrated into its GCWR.

• Max GCWR: Up to 110,000 lbs (depending on configuration and engine)
• Max GVWR: Up to 60,600 lbs (depending on configuration)
• Curb Weight: Varies significantly based on chassis, engine, and sleeper configuration, but typically ranges from 16,000 to more than 22,000 lbs for a tractor. You will need to check the specific vehicle's door jamb sticker for precise figures.
• Payload: Integrated into the GVWR; the usable payload is the GVWR minus the curb weight of the specific truck.
• Hitch Class: Not applicable in the traditional sense. The VNL utilizes a fifth-wheel coupling for semi-trailers.

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

For the 2017 Volvo VNL, towing capacity is determined by its GCWR, which is a function of the engine, transmission, axle ratios, and suspension configurations. The VNL is not rated for "towing" in the conventional sense with a bumper pull hitch, but rather for pulling semi-trailers via a fifth-wheel setup. The following table illustrates typical GCWRs, but always refer to the specific vehicle's door jamb sticker and documentation for exact ratings, as configurations vary widely.

Note: The "Payload" column is omitted as it is derived from GVWR - Curb Weight for each specific truck, which varies greatly.

Tow Package Contents

For the 2017 Volvo VNL, the concept of a "tow package" as found in light-duty trucks does not apply. These vehicles are designed from the ground up for commercial tractor-trailer applications. Key components relevant to heavy-duty hauling are integrated into the standard vehicle design or selected as part of the vehicle's specification:

• Transmission Cooler: Heavy-duty transmission cooling systems are standard given the constant heavy loads these trucks are designed to handle.
• Integrated Brake Controller: The VNL features advanced air brake systems with connections for integrated trailer air brakes. Electronic brake controllers as seen in light-duty applications are not relevant.
• Trailer Sway Control: Advanced stability control systems are standard, which contribute to trailer stability, particularly during adverse conditions.
• 7-pin Connector: Standard equipment includes multiple electrical connections designed for semi-trailers, not a conventional 7-pin RV connector.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck

The 2017 Volvo VNL is exclusively designed for 5th-wheel towing of semi-trailers. Gooseneck hitches are generally found on heavy-duty pick-up trucks for agricultural or specialized commercial hauling, and are not typically used with Class 8 tractors like the VNL.

The fifth-wheel coupling on a VNL is an integral part of its design, capable of handling immense vertical and horizontal loads. The capacity of the fifth wheel itself is generally rated to exceed the maximum GVWR of the trailer it