1980 Volvo DL, GL and GT
1 9 8 0
VOLVO
DL, GL and GT
Notice to Owner: Your Volvo has been built to comply with all U.S.A and Canada safety and antipollution regulations. 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 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
95)
DESCRIPTION Page
General Information 2
Keys 3
Instruments and controls 4
Instruments 6
Warning lights 7
Ignition switch, turn signal 8
Lighting 9
Windshield wipers, tailgate wiper 10
Washer fluid reservoirs 11
Rear window demister, hazard warning
flasher
12
Parking brake, choke 13
Clock, cigarette lighter, ash tray 14
Electrically operated windows 15
Heating and ventilation 16
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Air conditioning 18
Radios, AM-FM-FM stereo CB/tape players 19
Front seats 20
Seat belts 22
Doors and locks 24
Rear doors, trunk lid 25
Hood 26
Vent windows, Rear/side view mirrors 27
Interior light, sun roof, fuel tank cap 28
Rear seat, wagon 29
Tailgate, wagon 30
Cargo compartment, wagon 31
STARTING AND DRIVING
Service inspection 32
Break in period 32
Driving economy 33
Starting the engine 34
Gear shift positions 35
Automatic transmission 36
Emergency towing 38
Towing information 39
Trailer hauling 40
Brake system 41
Catalytic converter 42
MAINTENANCE SERVICE
Maintenance services 43
Gas station checks 44
Engine B21F, B21A 45
Servicing 46
Engine oil 49
Cooling system 50
Servicing 51
Carburetor 54
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Transmission oil 57
Rear axle, power steering, brake fluid 59
Lubrication 60
Coolant 61
Alternator, jump starting 62
Replacing bulbs 63
Fuses 70
Wheels and tires 71
Wheel changing 74
Replacing wiper blades 76
Washing, cleaning 77
Cleaning, anti-rust treatment 77
Paint touch-up 78
Long distance trips 80
Cold weather 81
Service diagnosis 83
Specifications 88
Volvo service manuals 94
Index 95
pg. 2 General Information
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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
Write the key number codes on the inside of the front cover of this Manual (See tag attached to
plastic key ring).
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In the event the original keys are lost, duplicates may be ordered from your Volvo dealer.
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1 9 8 0
VOLVO
DL, GL and GT
pg. 4 Instruments and controls
pg. 5 Instruments and controls
See page
1 Defroster outlet, side window
16
2 Fresh air louver
17
3 Headlights, parking lights
9
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4 Turn signals
8
5 Horn -
6 Instruments
6
7 Ignition switch/steering wheel lock
8
8 Wiper/washer
10
9 Fresh air louver
17
10 Clock
14
11 Fresh air louver
17
12 Fuse box
70
13 Hood release handle
26
14 Choke control (Carburetor engines for
Canada)
13
15 Instrument lights
9
16 Rear window demister
12
17 Hazard warning flasher
12
18 Fog lights (GT)
9
19 Air conditioning
18
20 Seat belt reminder light
22
21 Fresh air louver
17
22 Cigarette lighter
14
23 Ash tray
14
24 Heating and ventilation
16
25 Radio receptacle
19
26 Electrically operated windows
15
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 (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 Lambda-sondTM (oxygen sensor system) service reminder light (red)
This is a reminder to have the oxygen sensor replaced. The light will stay on until reset by servicing
dealer.
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
one of the tail lights
one of the brake lights (when the brake pedal is depressed).
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See section on "Replacing Bulbs".
pg. 8 Ignition switch, turn signals
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.
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.
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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.
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
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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.
Fog light switch (GT)
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The fog lights will only operate in combination with the low beams in "on" position.
pg. 10 Windshield wipers, tailgate window wiper, washer nozzles
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, wagon
Operated by the switch at the end of the windshield wiper/washer operating lever.
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 washer.
Adjusting washer nozzles
The nozzle may be adjusted by inserting a needle into the metal nozzle and rotating the nozzle to desired
position.
pg. 11 Washer fluid reservoirs
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Washer fluid reservoirs
The washer fluid reservoir for the windshield and washer is located in the engine compartment and holds
approx. 1.6 US gals = 6 liters/1.3 Imp gals.
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 gals
pg. 12 Rear window demister, hazard warning flasher
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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.
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, choke
Parking brake (hand brake)
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The lever is situated between the front seats. The brake is applied to the rear wheels.
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. 14 Clock, cigarette lighter, ash tray
Quartz crystal clock
To reset the hands, push in the reset knob and turn.
Note: A slight ticking sound emitted by the clock is considered normal.
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Cigarette lighter
To operate, depress the knob fully. When the knob automatically releases, the cigarette lighter is ready
for use.
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
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 ignition must be switched 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 electrically operated windows, this function can be disabled by a
switch located on the driver's door arm rest.
This switch is positioned 90° in relation to the other switches.
ON - Rear door windows can be raised or lowered .
OFF - Rear door power windows disconnected.
pg. 16 Heating and ventilation
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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
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)
The air flow is controlled by the lever at the center of the louver.
pg. 17 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.). This will help ensure availability of fresh air into the passenger compartment.
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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 is a floor directed fresh air louver, on the left side of the vehicle . 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 louver fully open and the fan (blower motor) OFF. (The fan forces
the air through the dash louvers.)
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pg. 18 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
Start the air conditioning compressor by turning the control knob clockwise toward MAX. For rapid
cooling, position the knob into the yellow range beyond MAX. After desired temperature is reached reposition the control knob into the blue range.
At cruising speeds, the knob should be kept within the blue range. If it remains in the yellow 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 louver.
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
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on even when not required for interior cooling. The air conditioner will dehumidify the air inside the
vehicle.
The air conditioning system should be operated periodically during the winter season. Have your Volvo
dealer check the system for correct operation yearly.
pg. 19 Radios, AM-FM-FM stereo-CB/Tape players
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. 20 Front seats
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Horizontal seat adjustment
Pull control bar upward, then slide seat forward or rearward to desired position.
Make sure that the seat is properly secured when you release the control.
WARNING!
For your safety, never adjust seat while
driving.
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.
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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. 21 Front seats
Seat back release, 2-door models
Press the button and fold seat back forward to allow passengers access to/from the rear seats.
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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.
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. 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 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.
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
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