240 thermostat

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 07 Sep 2008, 20:44

Ok, I usually don't post questions (I know all the answers- nah...just kidding). But I'm pretty new to the RWD Volvo's. I'm just now getting around to working on the 240....been busy with other things- work, changing out brakes on the S and V70's, etc. Son's birthday is a month away and I'd like this to be in top shape. So I installed the front IPD swaybar today...the rear can wait- didn't realize that the bolt that holds it on goes through the rear shock and holds it in place too...wow, what an ordeal....so anyway, it can wait. The ride is much improved with just the 25mm front sway in the front for now. Still figuring out (replaced gear) the odometer that's broken and the over-drive solenoid that also isn't working (relay is fine). Other that that, today it over heated and sprung a leak in the expansion tank cap which cracked. I was able to get a new one at an Auto Zone of all places (looks identical to the old black one minus the "Volvo" stamp on its face). Anyway, after driving it for awhile after wards, the temp. was still rising past the half way mark on the dash so I realized it needed a new thermostat. Got one also at autozone (200degree, so it's about 93F degrees). That's all good I guess. My question is, is there anything I need to know about changing out the thermostat on a '91 non-turbo automatic 240 sedan? I've changed plenty on 850's and S70's.

Post by **billofdurham** » 08 Sep 2008, 12:11

After you have removed the rear axle.......Sorry that was for something else.

It is straightforward but you will need a gasket. If I remember correctly the 850 et al have a sealing ring in the kit you don't need one for the 240.

Bill.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 08 Sep 2008, 14:29

Thanks Bill...yes, I picked up a gasket too. When it cools down this evening and before it's dark, I'll change it out. I guess it's straight forward and I should expect to loose some coolant even with hoses clamped.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 09 Sep 2008, 04:48

Got it done last night...the worst part was getting the #10 nuts off...I had to use my large torque bar with lots of pressure on them to keep from rounding them out- man they were on there tight. Now, problem is temp gauge is at 4:00. I'm used to seeing it at 3:00. I bought an aftermarket (local parts store) thermostat that said 200degrees (only one they had). If this is not a good thing, I'll order the right one and do it over again.

DeRail · Post by **DeRail** » 09 Sep 2008, 06:59

From what I've been reading, it would seem that the higher rated thermostats are for cars in cooler climates, as is what they say on the description page here: http://www.fcpgroton.com/product-exec/p ... gory_id/94

Sorry I couldn't be of more help

Post by **billofdurham** » 09 Sep 2008, 12:17

The thermostat specs for the 240 are:

Starts to open at 92C; 198F.
Fully open at 102C; 216F.

Your 'stat is rated at 93C; 200F so you are not far out and I don't think it will make much difference to the gauge if you do change. It is possible that you have a gauge that reads slightly high or the sensor is reading high.

Bill.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 09 Sep 2008, 14:32

Thanks Bill...I'll keep an eye on it. Could be that I didn't drive it long enough to get up to full temps...was trying though...even had the A/C on full blast to try to get it up. Anyway, good info on the open/close and that my thermostat is very close to spec.