This manual covers the 1966 Volvo 121 / 122S Amazon, a range of vehicles renowned for their robust engineering, exceptional durability, and pioneering safety features. Available as a 2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan, or a 5-door Estate (Wagon), the Amazon series embodies Volvo's commitment to practical Scandinavian design and reliable performance. Powered by the B18 engine, the 121 typically featured a single carburetor producing approximately 75-85 horsepower, while the 122S offered a dual-carburetor setup for enhanced performance, yielding around 90-95 horsepower. These vehicles are characterized by their strong safety cage construction, collapsible steering column, and padded interior elements, reflecting Volvo's dedication to occupant protection.
This comprehensive workshop service repair manual provides detailed factory-level information in English for the maintenance and repair of your 1966 Volvo 121 / 122S Amazon. It covers all essential systems including the Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Lubrication, Cooling, Ignition, Charging, Starting, Clutch, Manual and Automatic Transmissions, Rear Axle, Steering, Suspension, Brakes, and the Electrical System, complete with wiring diagrams. The manual details routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, tuning procedures, and component overhauls, offering step-by-step guidance with torque specifications and diagnostic procedures. This resource is invaluable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike, ensuring accurate diagnosis and effective upkeep of the vehicle.
Body Styles:
2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Estate (Wagon)
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, amateur mechanics, and professional workshops seeking detailed factory-level repair information for the 1966 Volvo Amazon.
Key Benefit:
Provides the authoritative factory data required for accurate diagnosis, repair, and maintenance, enabling cost-effective upkeep of the vehicle.
Source Type:
Factory Service Manual
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Electrical System, Power Transmission, Brakes, Wheels & Tires, Body, Driving & Running-In Procedures, Servicing, Lubrication, Specifications.
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Compatibility:
Windows OS, macOS
Printability:
All pages are printable
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Fuel System, Engine Lubrication, Cooling System, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Rear Axle & Differential, Steering System, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Brakes (Drum/Disc), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Body Construction, Heating System.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Engine Tuning, Carburetor Adjustment, Ignition Timing, Clutch Adjustment/Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Troubleshooting, Chassis Lubrication, Running-In Procedures, Winter Servicing.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to complete disassembly and reassembly of major components. Includes detailed torque specifications and diagnostic procedures.
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for potential archives)
Document Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, featuring detailed illustrations and diagrams.
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Engine Type 121:
Inline 4-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Displacement 121:
1.8 Liters (1778 cc)
Carburetion 121:
Single SU HS4 or Zenith Stromberg CD175 carburetor (depending on specific market/variant)
Engine Type 122S:
Inline 4-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Displacement 122S:
1.8 Liters (1778 cc)
Carburetion 122S:
Twin SU HS4 carburetors
Horsepower 121:
Approx. 75-85 hp (SAE Gross)
Horsepower 122S:
Approx. 90-95 hp (SAE Gross)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (though leaded was common in 1966, unleaded conversion details might be in advanced sections)
Type Standard:
4-speed Manual
Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic (HVIS)
Overdrive Option:
Optional overdrive unit (Laycock de Normanville) available for manual transmissions on some models.
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated
Length Sedan:
Approx. 4520 mm (178 in)
Width Sedan:
Approx. 1700 mm (67 in)
Height Sedan:
Approx. 1450 mm (57 in)
Length Estate:
Approx. 4570 mm (180 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1200-1300 kg (2650-2870 lbs), varies by body style and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Refer to manual for specific ratings (typically around 1700-1800 kg)
Safety Cage Construction:
Volvo's renowned "safety cage" construction with integrated crumple zones.
Seat Belts:
Factory provision for front seat belts (three-point belts became standard later, but likely optional or available for retrofitting).
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column (a Volvo innovation for its time).
Dashboard:
Padded dashboard and steering wheel.
Audio System:
Factory-fitted AM radio (optional, likely a Motorola or Blaupunkt unit).
Heating System:
Robust factory heater with demister function. Manual covers its operation and servicing.
Ignition Switch:
Key operated ignition and starter system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Manual will specify exact intervals for this year.
Tune Up Interval:
Regular checks of ignition points, spark plugs, and carburetor settings recommended at oil change intervals or as specified.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or 10W-30 depending on climate). Use oil with appropriate API service classification for the era.
Coolant Type:
Water/antifreeze mixture (e.g., 50/50). Manual will specify type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for precise specification).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Gear oil for manual gearbox (GL-4 specification recommended). Manual will provide capacity and specific grade.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped with automatic transmission). Manual will provide capacity and specific grade.
Common Wear Items:
Ignition points and condenser, carburetor diaphragms (SU), fuel pumps (mechanical), clutch wear, U-joints, brake wheel cylinders and master cylinder seals, suspension bushings.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, door bottoms, floor pans, rear valence panel, jacking points. Regular inspection and rust prevention are crucial.
Carburetor Tuning:
The manual provides detailed guidance on tuning SU carburetors, including jet adjustment and mixture control, crucial for performance and efficiency.
Brand Philosophy:
Volvo's long-standing commitment to safety, durability, and robust engineering.
Nickname:
Amazon (in Sweden and other markets), but sold as the Volvo 121/122S in many export markets due to the "Amazon" name being used by another manufacturer.
Design Era:
Designed by Jan Wilsgaard, embodying a stylish yet practical Scandinavian design.
Production Period:
1956-1970
Key Markets:
Europe, North America, Australia.
Safety Reputation:
The Volvo Amazon series is widely recognized for its pioneering safety features and robust construction, setting benchmarks for the automotive industry in the 1950s and 60s.
