Volvo 245 1979 User Manual

1979 Volvo 242 244 245

1 9 7 9

VOLVO

242, 244, 245

Notice to Owner: Your Volvo has been built to comply with all American safety and anti-pollution regulations. Evidence of this can be verified from the certification labels on the left wheel housing in the engine compartment. For further information regarding these regulations, please contact your local dealer.

Notice: All information, illustrations and specifications contained in this manual are based on the latest product information available at the time of publication. Volvo reserves the right to make model changes at any time, or to change specifications or design, without notice and without incurring obligation.

Contents

(Index see page

91)

DESCRIPTION Page

General Information 2

Keys 3

Instruments and controls 4

Instruments 6

Warning lights 7

Ignition switch, parking brake, choke 8

Lighting 9

Turn signals 10

Windshield wipers, tailgate wiper 11

Clock, cigarette lighter, ash tray 12

Electrically heated rear window, hazard warning

flasher

Heating and ventilation 14

Air conditioning 16

Radios, AM-FM-FM stereo CB/tape players 17

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Front seats 18

Seat belts 20

Doors and locks 22

Rear doors, trunk lid 23

Hood 24

Vent windows, Rear/side view mirrors 25

Interior light, sun roof, fuel tank cap 26

Rear seat, wagon 27

Tailgate, wagon 28

Cargo compartment, wagon 29

STARTING AND DRIVING

Service inspection 30

Break in period 30

Starting the engine 32

Gear shift positions 33

Automatic transmission 34

Emergency towing 36

Towing information 37

Trailer hauling 38

Brake system 39

Catalytic converter 40

MAINTENANCE SERVICE

Maintenance services 41

Gas station checks 42

Engine B21F, B21A 43

Servicing 44

Engine oil 48

Cooling system 49

Emission control system 50

Carburetor 52

Transmission oil 56

Rear axle, power steering, brake fluid 57

Lubrication 58

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Coolant 59

Alternator, jump starting 60

Replacing bulbs 61

Fuses 67

Wheels and tires 68

Wheel changing 70

Washing, cleaning 73

Cleaning, anti-rust treatment 73

Paint touch-up 74

Long distance trips 76

Cold weather 77

Service diagnosis 79

Specifications 84

Volvo service manuals 90

Index 91

pg. 2 General Information

Do not export your Volvo to another country before investigating that country's applicable safety and exhaust emission requirements. In some cases it may be impossible to comply with these requirements.

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pg. 3 Keys

Write the key number codes on the inside of the front cover of this Manual (See tag attached to plastic key ring). In the event the original keys are lost, duplicates may be ordered from your Volvo dealer.

Top of Page

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1 9 7 9

VOLVO

242, 244, 245

pg. 4 Instruments and controls

pg. 5 Instruments and controls

See page

1 Defroster outlet, side window

2 Fresh air outlet

3 Headlights, parking lights

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4 Turn signals

5 Horn -

6 Instruments

7 Ignition switch/steering wheel lock

8 Wiper/washer

9 Fresh air outlet

10 Clock

11 Fresh air outlet

12 Fuse box

13 Hood release handle

14 Choke control (Carburetor engines for

Canada)

15 Instrument lights

16 Electrically heated rear window

17 Hazard warning flasher

18 Fog lights (242 GT)

19 Air conditioning

20 Seat belt reminder light

21 Fresh air louver

22 Cigarette lighter

23 Ash tray

24 Heating and ventilation

25 Radio receptacle

The pages in this section provide a detailed description of the vehicle's instruments and controls. Note that vehicles may be equipped differently, depending on special legal requirements, etc.

pg. 6 Instruments

A Odometer Total mileage reading.

B Speedometer

C Left turn signal indicator (green)

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D Parking brake reminder light (red)

E High beam indicator (blue)

F Brake failure warning light (red)

G Right turn signal indicator (green)

H Oil pressure warning light (red)

I Alternator warning light (red)

J Trip odometer

(last figure represents 1/10 mile)

K Trip odometer reset knob Push in to reset

L Reminder light, EGR/Lambda-sond

TM*

(oxygen sensor system) service

M Tachometer (242 GT)

Reads thousands of engine rpm. Orange range for momentary use, during acceleration. Red prohibited range.

N Bulb failure warning light (yellow)

O Temperature gauge The gauge pointer should remain inside the green range during normal operation.

If the pointer enters the red range repeatedly, check coolant level and fan belt tension. (See sections titled "Cooling system and Coolant")

Note: Canadian model speedometers indicate kilometers only.

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P Overdrive indicator light (green) Lights when overdrive is engaged.

Q Choke reminder light (yellow) Lights when choke is used. (Certain Canadian models only)

R Fuel gauge The fuel tank capacity is approx. 15.8 US gals=60 liters/13.2 Imp. gals F Full 1/2 R Reserve O Empty The red range from R to O represents approx. 2.1 US gals=8 liters/1.8 Imp. gals.

*Lambda-sond TM is a trademark of Volvo of America Corporation.

pg. 7 Warning lights

The warning lights described on this page should never be on when driving

When the ignition key is turned on, and before the engine starts, all of the warning lights should be on to test the function of the bulbs. Should a light not go off after the engine has started, the system indicated should be inspected. (However, the parking brake reminder light will not go off until the parking brake is fully released.)

D Parking brake reminder light (red)

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This light will be on when the parking brake (hand brake) is applied. The parking brake lever is situated between the front seats.

F Brake failure warning light (red)

If the light comes on while driving and the brake pedal can be depressed further than normal, it is an indication that one of the brake circuits is not functioning. Proceed cautiously to a Volvo dealer for an inspection of the brake system.

H Oil pressure warning light (red)

If the light comes on during driving, the oil pressure is too low. Stop the engine immediately and check the engine oil level. See section titled "Engine Oil". After hard driving, the light will come on occasionally when the engine is idling. This is normal, provided it goes off when the engine speed is increased.

I Alternator warning light (red)

If the light comes on while the engine is running, check the tension of the alternator drive belt as soon as possible. (See section titled "Cooling system".) NOTE: This warning light is illuminated if the alternator is not charging. However, oil pressure,

alternator, parking brake, brake failure, EGR, and bulb failure will be illuminated at the same time due to the design of the system.

L EGR and oxygen sensor service reminder light (red)

If the vehicle is equipped with exhaust gas recirculation, this light will come on at 15,000 mile (25,000 km) intervals, as required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This is a reminder to have the EGR valve serviced or the oxygen sensor replaced. The light will stay on until reset by servicing dealer.

Note: On Lambda-sond

equipped models the light comes on at 30,000 mile (50,000 km) intervals.

N Bulb failure warning light (yellow)

The light will come on if any of the following bulbs are defective:

one of the lower beams

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one of the tail lights one of the brake lights (when the brake pedal is depressed).

See section on "Replacing Bulbs".

pg. 8 Ignition switch, parking brake, choke

Ignition switch/steering wheel lock

A buzzer will sound if the ignition key is in the ignition lock and the front door on the driver's side is open. The buzzer will also sound if the headlights or parking lights are on when the door is open. The buzzer goes off when the front door is closed.

Parking brake (hand brake)

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The lever is situated between the front seats. The brake is applied to the rear wheels. In order to obtain the best possible performance of the parking brake, the brake linings should be broken in. (See section titled "Brake system".) The reminder light PARKING BRAKE on the instrument panel comes on whenever the parking brake lever is not fully released and the ignition is on.

Choke (only in cars with carburetor engines for Canada) Pull the choke out fully before starting a cold engine. Pulling the choke out a fraction of an inch or so regulates engine idling to some extent. Choke light on the instrument panel goes on when the choke is pulled out. Use the choke as briefly as possible! Also see section titled "Starting the engine".

pg. 9 Lighting

Headlights and position lights

All lights off

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Parking lights on

Headlights and parking lights on

Switch from upper to lower beams, and vice versa, by moving the turn signal switch lever on the left side of the steering column towards the steering wheel. The lights can be used without switching on the ignition key.

A buzzer will sound if the headlights or parking lights are on and the front door on the driver's side is open. The buzzer will also sound if the ignition key is in the ignition lock when the door is open. The buzzer goes off when the front door is closed.

Instrument panel lamps rheostat

Clockwise - brighter Counterclockwise - dimmer.

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Fog light switch (242 GT)

The fog lights will only operate in combination with the lower beams.

pg. 10 Turn signals

Turn signals

1 Signal lever engaged for normal turns.

Defective turn signal bulb will cause turn signal indicator and remaining signal lights to flash more rapidly.

2 Lane change position. In maneuvers such as lane changing, the driver can flash the turn signals by moving the turn signal lever to the first stop and holding it there. The lever will return to the neutral position when released.

3 High and low beam switching (headlights on). Move the lever towards the steering wheel and release it.

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3 Headlight flasher (headlights off). Move the lever towards the steering wheel. The headlight high beam will be on until the lever is released.

pg. 11 Windshield wipers, Tailgate window wiper

Wiper/washer

1 Intermittent wiper.

With switch in this position, the wipers will make a stroke every seventh second.

2 "Single stroke" position. Switch returns automatically when released.

3 Wipers, low speed.

4 Wipers, high speed.

5 Windshield wiper/washer.

The wiper will make 2-3 complete stroking cycles after the lever is released.

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Tailgate window wiper/washer, 245 Operated by the switch at the end of the windshield wiper/washer operating stalk.

1 Tailgate wiper

2 Interval position (optional)

With the switch in this position, there is one wiper stroking cycle approx. every five seconds.

3 Tailgate washer Depress the button to start the wiper/washer. The wiper will complete 2-3 stroking cycles after the button is released.

Adjusting washer nozzles The nozzle may be adjusted by inserting a needle into the metal nozzle and rotating the nozzle to desired position. The washer fluid reservoir for the windshield washer is located in the engine compartment and holds approx. 1.6 US gals = 6 liters/1.3 Imp gals.

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The fluid reservoir for the tailgate washer on the wagon is located in the concealed storage area under the floor on the right side of the rear cargo area. Reservoir capacity is approx. 1.6 US qts = 1.5 liters/1.3 Imp. qts.

pg. 12 Clock, cigarette lighter, ash tray

Quartz crystal clock To reset the hands, push in the reset knob and turn.

Cigarette lighter To operate, depress the knob fully. When the knob automatically releases, the cigarette lighter is ready for use.

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Ash trays To remove the ash trays depress the center spring and remove.

pg. 13 Rear window demister, hazard warning flasher

Rear window demister Switch off the rear window heater when the glass is clear of mist or frost. Otherwise the battery will be unduly strained. Do not place items against the inner surface of the rear window that may damage the printed circuit. Do not scrape the inner surface of the rear window glass with a hard object or use an abrasive window cleaner, otherwise damage to the printed circuit will occur.

Hazard warning flasher Four way flashing is used to indicate that the vehicle has become a traffic hazard (either during daylight or at night).

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Note: Regulations regarding the use of the hazard warning flasher may vary from state to state.

pg. 14 Heating and ventilation

Heating system

1 TEMP

Left = COOL Right = WARM

2 FLOOR Out = no air to floor In = full flow of air to front and rear floor

3 DEF (defrost) Out = low volume air flow to defroster In = full flow

4 REC (recirculation) To be used only for cars equipped with air conditioning. Do not use for heating. Out = full flow of outside air In = air is recirculated for faster cooling

5 FAN (Blower motor) 0 = off 1 = low speed 2 = medium speed 3 = high speed

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6 Fresh air louvers (dash) The air flow through the louvers is slightly decreased when the FLOOR (2) and/or DEF(3) controls are depressed.

pg. 15 Heating and ventilation

How to . . . . . . obtain max. heat

1 TEMP >>> WARM

2 FLOOR depressed

5 FAN >>> 2 (or 3)

6 All dash louvers halfway open and floor air louver closed.

. . . remove condensation 1 TEMP >>>WARM

3 DEF depressed

5 FAN >>> 2 (or 3)

6 All louvers closed as well as the floor fresh air louver.

Always try to keep front external inlet grille (in front of the windshield) clear of obstructions (snow, ice, etc.).

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Fresh air louvers (dash) A Closed B Open C Directing air flow horizontally D Directing air flow vertically

Fresh air louvers (floor) There are two floor directed fresh air louver, one on each side of the vehicle . (Cars equipped with

Oxygen Sensor Feedback System, Lambda-sond

, have one louver on the left side only.) Air flow is

controlled by the lever at the center of the louver.

Lever placed forward = louver opens Lever placed rearward = louver closes

Maximum airflow is obtained with both louvers fully open and FAN (blower motor) OFF. (The fan forces the air through the dash louvers.)

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Contents | Top of Page

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pg. 16 Air conditioning

Air conditioning How to use the air conditioner:

1 FAN Position 3 for rapid cooling.

The A/C does not operate unless FAN is on.

2 AIR COND

Depress bottom end of switch to start the compressor.

3 REC (Recirculation) Push in for rapid cooling and during high humidity conditions.

4 TEMP

Position control to COOL for rapid cooling, then set to desired temperature. To obtain rapid cooling, all windows must be closed and buttons FLOOR and DEF out. Close the floor fresh air louvers. Cool air will then be discharged through the four dash outlets which should be fully open.

Note: For rapid removal of condensation from inside glass surfaces, the air conditioner can be switched on even when not required for interior cooling. The air conditioner will dehumidify the air inside the vehicle.

Have your Volvo dealer check the system for correct operation yearly.

pg. 17 Radios, AM-FM-FM stereo-CB/Tape players

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Operating instructions This equipment is optional and is available in various models, each providing slightly different capabilities. Operating instructions are contained in the manuals associated with each model. These manuals are placed in the cars when the equipment is installed by the Dealer. Your Volvo Dealer will be able to assist you with any questions regarding the operation of this equipment.

NOTE: Operation of Citizens Band (CB) radios is governed by Federal Regulations. You must obtain a special license before operation this equipment.

pg. 18 Front seats

Horizontal seat adjustment Pull control upward, then slide seat forward or rearward to desired position.

Make sure that the seat is properly secured when you release the control. Note: Never adjust seat while driving. The entire seat frame can be moved further back to accommodate

very tall drivers. Tools are required for this adjustment. Pre-drilled holes are provided. Adjustment is approx. 1 1/8" (3 cm).

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Seat back inclination adjustment Rotate control clockwise to tilt seat back rearward. Rotate counterclockwise to tilt seat back forward.

Note that body weight must be shifted to allow seat back to move forward.

Lumbar support adjustment

Rotate clockwise for firm support or counterclockwise for soft support.

Canada only: The driver's seat is electrically heated and thermostatically controlled. Automatic engagement begins at 60°F (+15°C) and ends at 77°F (+25°C).

pg. 19 Front seats

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Seat back release, 2-door models Press the button and fold seat back forward to allow passengers access to/from the rear seats.

Driver seat height There are two levers, each with three positions, for adjusting the height of the seat (front and/or back of cushion). This allows adjustment of the seat cushion angle for added comfort. After adjusting the seat check that it is securely latched.

NOTE! Do not attempt to adjust seat height while seated.

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Passenger seat height The front passenger seat is retained by four brackets, each with three positions. The positions are the same as for the driver's seat. However, this adjustment must be accomplished manually, using appropriate hand tools.

pg. 20 Seat belts

Seat belts, retractable Fasten the seat belts whenever you drive or ride.

Two lights will be illuminated for 4-8 seconds after the ignition key is turned to driving position. One light is located in the instrument cluster and one in the console between the front seats. A buzzer will sound at the same time if the driver has not fastened his seat belt. The front and rear outboard seats are provided with self-retracting inertia belts.

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To buckle: Pull the belt out from the retractor far enough to insert the latch plate into the receptacle (buckle for rear seats), until a distinct snapping sound is heard. The belt should not be twisted or turned. To unfasten, depress red pushbutton in receptacle (buckle) and let the belts rewind into their retractors.

The seat belt retractors are normally unlocked. The retractors will lock up as follows:

● if belt is pulled out rapidly

● during braking and acceleration

● if the vehicle is leaning excessively

● when cornering at speed

Check seat belt mechanism function as follows:

1. Attach the seat belt. Pull rapidly on the strap.

2. CAUTION: Check other traffic before accomplishing this check. Brake firmly from approximately 30 mph (50 km/h) or turn in a tight circle while pulling on the belt.

In all the above checks you should not be able to pull the belt out.

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pg. 21 Seat belts

Seat belts, manually adjustable The center rear seat belt is manually adjustable. It should always be adjusted to the correct length.

To lengthen, angle the buckle as shown in the illustration and pull the belt through.

To shorten, pull the upper part of the double webbing until snug.

Maintenance

Check periodically that the anchor bolts are secure and the belt in good condition. Use water and a mild detergent for cleaning.

As the seat belts lose much of their strength when exposed to violent stretching, they should be replaced after collision, even though they may appear to be undamaged.

Never modify or repair the belt on your own, but have this done by a Volvo workshop.

pg. 22 Doors and locks

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Unlocking front doors Both front doors can be unlocked by using the ignition key. Turning the key 1/4 turn counterclockwise (right door: clockwise) lifts the lock buttons on the window ledge and the door can be opened by pulling the handle. To open a door from inside, the lock button must first be pulled up.

Locking doors All doors can be locked by depressing the lock buttons. To lock a door, press down the lock button and shut the door.

Do not leave the key inside the car!

Both front doors can be locked by using the key. Turning the key 1/4 turn clockwise (left door) or counterclockwise (right door) locks the doors.

The lock buttons should not be in the down position during driving. In case of an accident, this may hinder rapid access to the occupants of the vehicle.

In wintertime the door locks should be "lubricated" with at suitable agent to prevent freezing. If the lock

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is frozen, be careful not to break the key in the lock. Thaw the ice by heating the lock or the key.

pg. 23 Rear doors, trunk lid

Child safety locks (all except 2 door models) The buttons are located on the rear door jambs.

A Normal lock function. B The door cannot be opened from the inside.

Trunk lid 242 and 244 The lid can be opened only by using the key. Open by turning the key 1/4 turn, as shown. The spare wheel jack and tool kit are stowed in the left side of the trunk.

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