Market Position:
The Volvo BM 616 B and 646 were robust, versatile tractors designed for agricultural and industrial use. This manual serves the owners and operators of these workhorses, providing essential information for their upkeep.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against tractors from manufacturers like Massey Ferguson, Ford, John Deere, and David Brown in their respective classes, often favored for their build quality and drivetrain robustness.
Key Features:
Durable construction, reliable engines, and adaptable powertrains, making them suitable for a wide range of tasks. The models offered a balance of power and maneuverability.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Powertrain, Hydraulic System, Electrical System, Chassis, Steering, Braking System, PTO, General Operation, Maintenance Procedures.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance checks, lubrication, fluid level checks and replenishment, filter replacement, troubleshooting common operational issues, adjustments for PTO and hydraulics, basic electrical system checks.
Technical Depth:
Covers essential operator-level maintenance and basic service procedures for safe and efficient operation. Focuses on practical, in-field serviceability rather than in-depth mechanical overhauls.
Hydraulic System Coverage:
Details on hydraulic pump operation, reservoir, filter location, control valve functions, and common troubleshooting steps for lift and implement control.
Electrical System Coverage:
Basic wiring diagrams, fuse locations, starter motor and charging system operation, lighting circuits, and starter circuit troubleshooting.
Pto Operation Adjustment:
Instructions on engaging and disengaging the Power Take-Off (PTO), and potentially basic adjustments for the PTO clutch if applicable.
Troubleshooting Guide:
Includes guidance for diagnosing and rectifying common problems encountered during operation or maintenance.
Manual Purpose:
To provide operators and maintenance personnel with the necessary knowledge to safely operate, maintain, and perform basic servicing on their Volvo BM 616 B and 646 tractors.
Troubleshooting Areas:
Engine starting issues, power loss, overheating, hydraulic system malfunctions, brake performance problems, electrical system faults.
Primary Engine:
Likely a Volvo-designed diesel engine. Specific displacement and cylinder count vary, but common configurations for this era might include 3 or 4-cylinder naturally aspirated diesel engines.
Horsepower Range:
Typically in the 50-70 HP range, depending on the specific model variant and engine configuration.
Fuel System:
Direct injection diesel fuel system, likely featuring a mechanical injection pump (e.g., from Bosch or similar manufacturer).
Engine Configuration:
Naturally Aspirated Diesel
Engine Displacement Range:
Likely between 3.0 to 4.5 liters, depending on the specific engine variant (e.g., 3 or 4 cylinder).
Cooling System Type:
Water-cooled, pressurized system with a radiator, fan, and thermostat.
Transmission Type:
Manual transmission with multiple forward and reverse gears. Likely a synchronized gearbox for easier shifting. Often featured a dual-clutch or power-take-off (PTO) clutch.
Optional Features:
Some variants might have offered creeper gears or specialized PTO options for different implement speeds.
Gear Selection:
Gated shift pattern, typically with high/low range selection and separate gear levers for different transmission stages.
Drive Configuration:
Two-wheel drive (2WD) is standard. Four-wheel drive (4WD) variants may exist, but are less common for these specific models as described.
Clutch Type:
Dry single or dual-plate clutch, depending on specific model variant and intended use (e.g., independent PTO clutch).
Wheelbase:
Variable based on specific model variant, but typical for tractors of this size and era to be around 2000-2300 mm.
Operating Weight:
Likely in the range of 2500-3500 kg, depending on configuration and ballast.
Tow Rating:
Not explicitly stated for this type of manual, but will be dependent on tractor weight and power. Refer to tractor specifications or a dealer for official ratings.
Tire Size Front:
Commonly 7.50-16 or similar agricultural front tire sizes.
Tire Size Rear:
Commonly 13.6-28 or 14.9-28 agricultural rear tire sizes.
Safety Features Standard:
ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) likely a standard or optional feature depending on the market and production year. Seat belts would be expected on later models or as an option.
Active Features:
Service brakes, parking brake, neutral safety start interlock (if applicable).
Passive Features:
Operator's seat with basic cushioning, shielded PTO shaft, fenders.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 250 hours of operation or annually, whichever comes first. Specific interval from manual is definitive.
Air Filter Service:
Check and service at 50-100 hour intervals, depending on operating conditions and dust levels.
Fuel Filter Service:
Replace or service as per hours specified, typically around 250-500 hours, or when performance issues arise. Crucial to follow manual's guidance.
Engine Oil Specification:
Typically API CD or CE rated diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 depending on ambient temperature. Exact specification in manual is crucial.
Transmission Hydraulic Fluid:
Likely a universal tractor transmission oil (UTTO) or a specific Volvo hydraulic fluid meeting their specifications. Capacity and type will be detailed in the manual.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, mixed with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio for optimal freeze protection and corrosion inhibition. Exact capacity in manual.
Common Wear Items:
Wear on clutch friction plates, potential leaks from hydraulic seals, starter motor reliability, and injector wear can be common on high-hour machines of this vintage.
Greasing Points:
The manual will detail critical lubrication points for steering, PTO, and axle components, typically requiring daily or weekly greasing.
Filter Part Numbers:
While specific part numbers are not provided here, the manual would likely refer to genuine Volvo BM or equivalent OEM filter references for oil, fuel, and air filters.
Brand Heritage:
Volvo BM (Bolinder-Munktell) has a long and respected history in the production of heavy machinery and agricultural equipment, known for its engineering prowess and durability.
Model Lineage:
The 616 series tractors were part of Volvo BM's lineup during the 1970s and early 1980s, representing a step forward in power and features from earlier models, likely evolving from earlier 4-cylinder designs.
Production Period:
Likely produced between the mid-1970s and early-to-mid 1980s.
Corporate History:
Volvo BM tractors were later integrated into Valtra. Understanding this lineage can sometimes help in sourcing parts or understanding design influences.
