Volvo DIESEL 1983 Owner Manual
1983 Volvo Diesel
1 9 8 3
VOLVO
Diesel
Notice to Owner:
Your Volvo is designed to meet all applicable safety and emission standards. Evidence of this can be
verified from the certification labels attached to the door opening sheet metal and on the left wheel
housing in the engine compartment. For further information regarding these regulations, please contact
your 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
87)
DESCRIPTION Page
General Information 2
Keys 3
Instruments and controls 4
Instruments 6
Warning lights 7
Starting (ignition) switch, turn signals 8
Lighting 9
Windshield wipers, washer nozzles 10
Washer fluid reservoir 11
Rear window demister, Hazard warning
flasher
12
Parking brake 13
Cigarette lighter, ash tray 14
Electrically operated windows 15
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Heating and ventilation 16
Air conditioning 18
Radios, AM-FM-FM Stereo/Tape players 19
Front seats 20
Seat belts 22
Doors and locks 24
Child safety lock, trunk lid, trunk light 25
Hood, long load storage 26
Rear/side view mirrors 27
Interior light, sunroof, fuel tank cap 28
Rear seat, wagon model 29
Tailgate, wagon model 30
Cargo compartment, wagon model 31
STARTING AND DRIVING
Service inspection, break in period 32
Economical driving 33
Starting the engine 34
Gear shift positions 35
Automatic transmission 36
Emergency towing 38
Towing information 39
Trailer hauling 40
Automatic transmission, brake system 41
Fuel system 42
MAINTENANCE SERVICE
Maintenance services 43
Gas station checks 44
Engine D 24 45
Servicing, Schedule 46
Engine oil 48
Cooling system 50
Servicing 51
Transmission oil 54
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Rear axle, power steering, brake fluid 56
Lubrication 57
Coolant 58
Alternator, jump starting 59
Replacing bulbs 60
Fuses 65
Wheels and tires 66
Wheel changing 68
Replacing wiper blades, washing 70
Washing, cleaning, anti-rust treatment 71
Paint touch up 72
What causes rust 74
Cold weather 75
Long distance trips 76
Service diagnosis 77
Specifications 81
Volvo service manuals 86
Index 87
pg. 2 General Information
DIESEL
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This manual contains instructions on how to operate and maintain your Volvo
Instructions for diesel engine vehicles differ from those of gasoline engine vehicles. It is important to
read through this Owner's Manual to acquaint yourself with starting the engine, fuel system, engine oil,
etc.
For more information regarding adjustments or repairs, contact your authorized Volvo dealer.
Certain components described in the manual may be optional on some models or are available as
accessory items only.
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.
pg. 3 Keys
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Write the key number codes on the inside of the front cover of this manual as well as your pocket diary.
These number codes are stamped on a separate tag supplied with the keys. This tag should be separated
from the key ring and kept in a safe place.
The double-sided tape on the back of the tag can be used to secure it safely.
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 8 3
VOLVO
DIESEL
pg. 4 Instruments and controls
pg. 5 Instruments and controls
See page
1 Fresh air louver
17
2 Turn signals
8
3 Headlights, parking lights
9
4 Instruments lights
9
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5 Instruments
6
6 Wiper/washer, tailgate window wiper/ washer
(wagon)
10, 11
7 Starting (ignition) switch/steering wheel lock
8
8 Fresh air louver
17
9 Storage compartment (extra instrument location) -
10 Fresh air louver
17
11 Glove box -
12 Fresh air louver
17
13 Fuse box
65
14 Hood release handle
26
15 Horn -
16 Cigarette lighter
14
17 Rear window demister
12
18 Hazard warning flashers
12
19 Air conditioning
18
20 Seat belt reminder light
22
21 Heating and ventilation
16
22 Gear lever or gear selector
35, 36
23 Ash tray
14
24 Fresh air louver
17
25 Radio receptacle
19
26 Fresh air louver
17
27 Electrically operated windows
15
28 Control for electrically operated side mirrors
27
29 Parking brake
13
30 Electrically operated windows, right front door
15
31 Seat belt release buttons
22
32 Seat belt reminder light
22
33 Ash tray
14
The pages in this section provide a detailed description of the vehicle's instruments and controls.
Note that some vehicles may be equipped differently, depending on special legal requirements, etc.
pg. 6 Instruments
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A Clock
The clock is electrically operated from the car battery. To reset the hands, push in and turn knob(l).
B Left turn signal indicator (green)
C Speedometer
In kilometers and miles.
D Odometer
Total mileage reading.
E Trip odometer
(Last figure represents 1/10 mile/km)
F Right turn signal indicator (green)
G Temperature gauge
The gauge pointer should remain inside the black 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")
WARNING!
Allow engine to cool before adding
fluid.
H Fuel gauge
The fuel tank capacity is approx. 60 liters = 15.8 US gals.
The red range represents approx. 2.1 US gals. = 8 liters.
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I Knob for clock adjustment
J Preheating glow indicator light
The indicator light goes on when the starting (ignition) key is turned to Drive/Glow.
K Alternator warning light (red)
L Oil pressure warning light (red)
M Overdrive indicator light (green)
Lights when overdrive is engaged.
N Trip odometer reset knob
Push in to reset
O High beam indicator (blue)
P Parking brake reminder light (red)
Q Brake failure warning light (red)
R Bulb failure warning light (yellow)
pg. 7 Warning lights
The warning lights described on this page should never be on
when driving
When the starting (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.)
K 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,
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alternator, parking brake, brake failure, and bulb failure will be illuminated at the same time due
to the design of the system.
L 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.
P Parking brake reminder light (red)
This light will be on when the parking brake (hand brake) is applied. The parking brake lever is situated
between the front seats.
Q 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.
R Bulb failure warning light (yellow)
The light will come on if any of the following bulbs are defective:
one of the lower beams
one of the tail lights
one of the brake lights (when the brake pedal is depressed).
See section on "Replacing Bulbs".
pg. 8 Starting switch, turn signals
Starting switch/steering wheel lock
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If difficulty is encountered in turning the starting (ignition) key from lock position, turn the steering
wheel slightly and try again.
A chime will sound if the starting (ignition) key is in the switch lock and the front door on the driver's
side is open. The chime will also sound if the headlights or parking lights are on when the door is open.
The chime goes off when the front door is closed.
Turn signals
1 Lane change positions.
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.
2 Signal lever engaged for normal turns. Note: Defective turn signal bulb will cause turn signal
indicator and remaining signal lights to flash more rapidly.
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3 High and low beam switching (headlights on).
Move the lever towards the steering wheel and release it.
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. 9 Lighting
Headlights and position lights
All lights off
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
starting (ignition) key.
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A chime will sound if the headlights or parking lights are on and the front door on the driver's side is
open. The chime will also sound if the starting (ignition) key is in the switch lock when the door is open.
The chime goes off when the driver's door is closed.
Instrument panel lamps rheostat
Clockwise - brighter
Counterclockwise - dimmer.
pg. 10 Windshield wipers, tailgate window wiper, washer nozzles
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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.
Tailgate window wiper/washer, wagon
Operated by the switch at the end of the windshield wiper/washer operating lever.
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1 Tailgate wiper
2 Interval position (optional - certain models)
With the switch in this position, there is one stroking cycle approx. every fifteen 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 fluid spray may be adjusted by inserting a needle into the metal nozzle and rotating nozzle to
desired position.
4-8" = 10-20 cm.
12" = 30 cm.
pg. 11 Washer fluid reservoir
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Washer fluid reservoir
The washer fluid reservoir for the windshield and tailgate washer (wagon) is located in the engine
compartment and holds approx. 1.6 US gals = 6.0 liters.
During wintertime, the reservoir should be filled with anti-freeze specified in section titled "Cold
weather".
pg. 12 Rear window demister, hazard warning flasher
Rear window demister
Switch off the rear window demister 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.
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Hazard warning flasher
Four way flashing is used to indicate that the vehicle has become a traffic hazard (either during daylight
or at night).
Note: Regulations regarding the use of the hazard warning flasher may vary from state to state.
pg. 13 Parking brake
Parking brake (hand brake)
The lever is situated between the front seats. The brake is applied to the rear wheels.
Always use the parking brake (hand brake) when parking, to maintain the best possible function.
For winter use, see section titled "Cold weather".
Parking brake reminder light
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The reminder light PARKING BRAKE on the instrument panel comes on whenever the parking brake
lever is not fully released and the starting (ignition) switch is on.
pg. 14 Cigarette lighter, ash trays
Cigarette lighter
To operate, depress the knob fully. When the knob automatically releases, the cigarette lighter is ready
for use.
The starting (ignition) switch must be ON for the cigarette lighter to function.
Ash trays
To remove the ash trays depress the center spring and remove.
pg. 15 Electrically operated windows
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Electrically operated windows (standard on certain models)
The electrically operated windows are controlled by switches set in the door arm rests. All the windows
can be controlled from the driver's arm rest as shown in the above illustration.
The starting (ignition) switch must be ON for the electrically operated windows to function. The
window is lowered if the rear part of the switch is pressed and raised if the front part of the switch is
pressed.
Cut-out switch for rear door electrically operated windows
If the car is equipped with rear door power windows, this function can be disabled by a switch located
on the driver's door armrest.
This switch is positioned 90° in relation to the other switches.
ON - The rear-door windows can be raised or lowered with the respective door switch as well as the
switch on the driver's door.
OFF - The rear door windows cannot be raised or lowered with the respective door switch but instead
only with the corresponding switch on the driver's door.
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pg. 16 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 on 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)
This fan has 4 speeds and is shut completely off when the knob is turned to the left.
6 Fresh air louvers (dash)
The air flow through the louvers is decreased when the FLOOR (2) and/or DEF (3) controls are
depressed.
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7 Fresh air louvers (floor)
Lever placed forward = louver opens
Lever placed rearward = louver closes
pg. 17 Heating and ventilation
How to . . .
. . . obtain max. heat
1 TEMP >>> WARM
2 FLOOR depressed
5 FAN >>> 3(or 4)
6 All dash louvers halfway open and floor air louver closed.
. . . remove condensation
1 TEMP >>>WARM
3 DEF depressed
5 FAN >>> 3 (or 4)
6 All louvers closed as well as the floor fresh air louver.
Always keep front external inlet grille (in front of the windshield) clear of obstructions (snow, ice, etc.).
Maximum defroster action
For maximum defroster capacity at very low ambient temperatures, use the recirculation control (button
depressed).
If not using air conditioning, the recirculation feature should not be used in humid climates and at
temperatures about +23°F (-5°C).
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Air louvers - dash
A Closed
B Open
C Directing air flow horizontally
D Directing air flow vertically
Fresh air louver (floor)
There is a floor-directed fresh air louver on the driver and passenger sides of the vehicle (driver's side
only on some models). Airflow 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 louver fully open and the fan (blower motor) shut completely off.
(The fan forces the air through the dash louvers.)
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Contents | Top of Page
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pg. 18 Air conditioning
Air conditioning (standard on certain models)
How to use the air conditioner:
1 FAN
Position 4 for rapid cooling.
2 AIR COND
Start the air conditioning compressor by turning the control knob clockwise toward MAX.
For rapid cooling, position the knob into the orange range beyond MAX. After desired temperature is
reached re-position the control knob into the blue range.
At cruising speeds, the knob should be kept within the blue range. If it remains in the orange range,
icing may occur resulting in decreased cooling capacity.
3 REC (Recirculation)
Push in for rapid cooling and during high humidity conditions.
4 TEMP
When using the air conditioner for cooling, the TEMP control should be set to COOL position, fully left.
Use the AIR COND control to regulate the 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
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vehicle.
Have your Volvo dealer check the system for correct operation yearly. The air conditioning system
should be operated periodically during the winter season.
pg. 19 Radios, AM-FM-FM stereo/Tape players
Operating instructions
This optional equipment is available from Volvo Accessories in several different models, each with its
own special features. 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.
Radio antenna mast
Note: Always lower the antenna mast when entering automatic car wash.
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pg. 20 Front 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.
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: For your safety, never adjust seat while driving.
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Electrically heated seats
(standard on certain models)
The driver's seat is electrically heated and thermostatically controlled. Automatic engagement begins at
50°F (+10°C) and switches off at approx. 86°F (+30°C).
Seat back inclination
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 or rearward.
pg. 21 Passenger seat, child safety
Passenger seat height
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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.
Child safety
Volvo recommends the proper use of restraint systems for all occupants including children. Remember
that regardless of age and size, a child should always be properly restrained in a car.
Holding a child in your arms is NOT a substitute for a child restraint system. In an accident, a child held
in a person's arms can be crushed between the vehicle's interior and an unrestrained person. The child
could also be injured by striking the interior, or by being ejected from the vehicle during a sudden
maneuver or impact. The same can also happen if the infant or child rides on the seat unrestrained. Other
occupants should also be properly restrained to help reduce the chance of injuring or increasing the
injury of a child.
In many states and provinces there is legislation governing how and where children should be carried in
a car. Find out the regulations existing in your state or province.
A child restraint system can help protect a child in a vehicle. Here's what to look for when selecting a
child restraint system:
● It should have a label certifying that it meets applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
(FMVSS 213-80) - or in Canada, requirements of the Children's Car Seat and Harnesses Regulations
(CCSHR).
● Make sure the child restraint system is appropriate for the child's height, weight and development -
the label required by the standard or regulation, or instructions for infant restraints, typically provide this
information.
● In using any child restraint system, we urge you to carefully look over the instructions that are
provided with the restraint. Be sure you understand them and can use the device properly and
safely in this vehicle.
When a child has outgrown the child safety seat (approximately 4-5 years, depending on size) you
should use the rear seat with the standard seat belt fastened. The best way to protect the child here is to
place the child on a cushion so that the seat shoulder belt is as far down on the hips as possible.
A safety cushion for this purpose can be obtained from your Volvo dealer. (Approval pending in
Canada).
pg. 22 Seat belts
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Seat belts, retractable
Fasten the seat belts whenever you drive or ride.
Two lights will be illuminated for 4-8 seconds after the starting (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 chime 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.
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.
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Note: The lap belt should sit low and tight under abdomen.
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 driving in turns
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.
pg. 23 Seat belts
Seat belts, manually adjustable
The center rear seat belt is manually adjustable. It should always be adjusted to the correct length.
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