Older Volvo Search

Post by **rmmagow** » 25 Jul 2012, 10:09

Hi Folks,

I currently own a decent V70 and am starting my search for a much older RWD Volvo. I'm starting with the 240, a Wagon with a shifter is preferred but we'll see.
Question, did any of the older Volvo models have either chain driven cams or OHV/push-rod setup? I'm no fan of rubber timing belts on an interference engine. Am I correct in assuming that these older Volvos can go a LOT of miles when properly cared for? How far back were carbs still in use? Are the real old ones, PV's, 122's etc worth looking for? Are parts still more-or-less obtainable?
I'm a hobby wrenchist and not afraid of old tech. This second Volvo would be lightly used, mostly by my wife around town. In secondary mode, it would be used as a 100 mile a day commuter, but only if the V70 were asleep for some reason.
In the past, I was a multi Mazda owner, as many as 4 at a time. The Volvo (and maybe a Saab) will be my next multi-mark vehicle. My other multi-mark is Mercedes, a 220S and a 300D.

lummert · Post by **lummert** » 25 Jul 2012, 10:45

Not all overhead cam Volvo engines are interference engines.

Post by **fazool** » 25 Jul 2012, 11:39

I want to (someday) get an aloder hobby car. I've debated between an old American muscle car (my roots) or an older Volvo (my current interests).

My first Volvo was an 86 740GLE. 4Cyl, non-turbo. OHC, non-interference, fuel injected engine.

Incredibly robust and reliable car. I owned it for years and only ever had one repair of $160 for a ballast resistor.

Post by **rmmagow** » 25 Jul 2012, 12:13

Just started communication regarding an old 122 wagon. Basically, just what I'm wanting but didn't think made sense to look for. Happy to hear not all are interference engines. My old Honda had a belt and non-interference engine and a broken timing belt was a non-event rather than a tragedy.

itguy1010 · Post by **itguy1010** » 26 Jul 2012, 03:31

Its good to see people still looking for older Volvos. I hate to see them going to scrap or decaying in a back yard. Thankfully, I have enough sense to not become a "rescuer" of these vehicles or my yard would become one of those Swedish graveyards.

I have to disagree with the sentiment about interference engines and broken timing belts. If you keep the belt adjusted properly and replace it at interval (not as big a deal to do as you may think) its very reliable. And, like lummert said, quite a few models are non-interference.

This may help:

Interference" Engines:

B200 series (including E, F, G, FT, GT)
B230E (high-compression B230 sold outside of North America)
B204 series (including E, F, FT, GT)
B234 series (including F, G)
All B5XXX five-cylinder inline engines and 6XXX six-cylinder engines
The B230 series is non-interference with the exception of the B230E.

Eric