The Volvo 740, produced from 1982 to 1988, represents a significant chapter in the brand's history, offering robust Scandinavian engineering in a premium European sedan. Available in GLE and GLT trims, these models were built upon the 740 Series chassis and are powered by the reliable Volvo B230 series of inline-4 engines, displacing 2.3 liters. Both naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants were offered, providing a range of performance from approximately 114 to 180 horsepower. Known for Volvo's unwavering commitment to safety, the 740 incorporated features like a reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, and three-point seatbelts. Its distinct, boxy design and emphasis on durability made it a popular choice for those seeking a dependable and safe vehicle.
This comprehensive workshop repair and service manual provides in-depth guidance for owners and technicians alike, covering all models, engines, and transmission types for the Volvo 740 from 1982 through 1988. The manual details essential maintenance procedures, including engine and transmission service, brake system upkeep, and electrical system diagnostics, along with troubleshooting guidance for common issues. It features professional-level technical information, step-by-step instructions, and detailed illustrations to facilitate accurate repairs and maintenance. The scope includes engine service, HVAC, suspension, steering, cooling, fuel injection, and emission control systems, ensuring users have the necessary information to maintain their vehicle's performance and longevity.
Body Style:
Sedan (740GLE, 740GLT)
Model Years Covered:
1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988
Chassis Codes:
740 Series
Target Audience:
Volvo 740 owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops.
Advantage:
Provides access to factory-level information, saving significant repair costs compared to dealership services.
Content Origin:
Original manufacturer-written workshop manual.
Completeness Assurance:
Guaranteed complete and intact, without missing or corrupt parts/pages.
User Benefit:
Empowers users with the knowledge to perform repairs themselves, saving time and money.
Overall Coverage:
Comprehensive for all models, engines, trims, and transmission types within the specified years.
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided but implied to be extensive).
Type:
Workshop Repair and Service Manual
Transmission Service:
Yes
Fuel Injection System:
Yes
Emission Control System:
Yes
Engine Control System:
Yes
Differential And Drive Axle:
Yes
Periodic Lubrication:
Yes
Disassembly And Assembly:
Yes
Cleaning And Reinstallation:
Yes
Diagnostic Procedures:
Yes
Depth:
Professional-level, comprehensive diagnostics, repair, and maintenance.
Illustration Detail:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos with enlarged insets for critical parts.
Instruction Format:
Step-by-step numbered instructions with substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within the PDF (common for professional manuals).
Printability:
Full printable
Zoom Capability:
Zoom IN/OUT capability
Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for extraction)
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Family:
Volvo B230 series (e.g., B230F, B230FT for turbocharged variants)
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (approx. 2316 cc)
Configuration:
Inline-4 cylinder
Aspiration:
Naturally aspirated (GLE/GL) and Turbocharged (GLT)
Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:
Typically around 114-130 hp (depending on specific engine variant and market).
Horsepower Turbocharged:
Typically around 160-180 hp (depending on specific engine variant and boost pressure).
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) or LH-Jetronic (MPI) fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Type:
Manual Transmission (e.g., M46 4-speed overdrive, M47 5-speed)
Type:
Automatic Transmission (e.g., AW70, AW71 4-speed)
Overdrive:
Available on manual transmissions for improved fuel economy.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2770 mm (109.1 inches)
Length:
Approximately 4870 mm (191.7 inches)
Width:
Approximately 1750 mm (68.9 inches)
Height:
Approximately 1410 mm (55.5 inches)
Curb Weight:
Varies by model/trim, typically around 1350-1450 kg (2975-3195 lbs).
Historical Safety:
Volvo was renowned for its strong safety reputation, incorporating advanced safety features for its era.
Braking System:
Typically 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS available on some later models.
Construction:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners (front).
Audio System:
Typically factory-installed AM/FM/Cassette player, with options for higher-end units. Manual may cover upgrades and diagnostics.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available on some models during this period, detailed in the manual.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on basic vehicle systems. Manual covers all integrated electrical components.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial maintenance item; interval varies by engine, typically around 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years. Manual will specify exact interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific interval based on plug type (e.g., platinum plugs).
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or higher; viscosity typically SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, depending on climate. Manual will specify exact API rating and viscosity grades.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze; typically a 50/50 mixture with distilled water. Manual will specify Volvo-approved coolant type and formulation.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF. Manual will specify exact fluid type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Gear oil; specific viscosity grade (e.g., 75W-90) and API rating will be detailed in the manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify exact requirement.
Common Problems:
Wiring harness degradation (especially brittle insulation), fuel pump failure, ignition system components (coil, distributor), vacuum leaks, rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills).
Turbocharged Specific:
Turbocharger oil feed line blockage, intercooler hose leaks.
Heritage Focus:
Volvo's long-standing commitment to safety, durability, and engineering excellence.
Introduction Era:
Part of Volvo's successful 700 series, launched in the early 1980s as a premium European sedan.
Design Philosophy:
Characterized by its distinct, boxy, and robust Scandinavian design.
Production Period:
1982-1988 (for the 740 models covered by this manual).
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Sweden.
Safety Awards:
While specific awards for the 740 GLE/GLT might be scarce, Volvo as a brand consistently received recognition for its pioneering safety innovations.