This page could be found on VCNA's website but suddenly disappeared. Since we think it contains some useful information we have put a copy of it here on our website. Volvo 164 Club of Sweden, January 15, 2001.

PARTS FAMILIARIZATION WORKBOOK NO. 2
240/260
Section 3: 1985 Through 1987 240/260 Models
INTRODUCTION Part - 2
Electrical/Brakes

The headlamps were revised with the 1986 models from the four small, rectangular sealed-beam halogen units to two large, retangular units. A separate bulb is used for each headlamp with the new system.


A third brake light first appeared on the 240 models in 1986. A replacement bulb is available that is fully compatible with the bulb failure sensor.

An electronic speedometer was fitted to all models in 1986. A speedometer transmitter in the differential sends out an electronic pulse that is converted by the speedometer into a visible readout. The transmitter also drives the odometer. A speedometer cable is not needed.

The electronic speedometer also permits the use of the same transmitter for the shift indicator (also called upshift light). This system flashes an instrument light to advise the driver of the best time to shift to another gear. This system is installed on 1986 and later 240s equipped with manual transmissions.
Suspension/Steering

Few changes to the suspension occurred from 1985 through 1987. Revised front springs and -- for the first time -- full wheel covers (for the DL models) were introduced with the 1986 models. Alloy wheels (without wheel covers) were fitted to all GL and Turbo models.
The 1986 and later models equipped with the B-23OF engine were fitted with a new type of power steering pump and plastic fluid reservoir.

Body

The 1985 240 sedans and station wagons are identical in external appearance to the 1984 models. But big changes occurred with the 1986 models.

The 1986 240 models contain many sheet metal and other external changes. The front and rear ends were completely modified with the following new parts:
  • Front end-hood, cowl panel, fenders, front panels, grille, lamp mouldings.
  • Rear end-trunk lid, emblems, trunk lid lock, lower rear aprons with builtin splash guards.


In addition, new side mouldings below the lower side door edges were added. To combat wind noise, new outside rear-view mirrors and door edge mouldings were also added.

Beginning with the 1986 models, more body parts were zinc-coated to help improve corrosion protection:



As you can see, 1986 and later 240s have the entire body except the roof and roof pillars constructed of zinc-coated metal. Minor damage to the zinc coating is self-healing -- zinc surrounding the damage moves in to cover the scratch.

Genuine Volvo body parts for the 240 models are designed to help protect the driver and passengers during collisions. Front and rear sheet metal is designed to help absorb a portion of the impact.

The component improvements you have just learned about contribute to the quality, safety, durability, performance and comfort of the 240.

The success of the 240s move up market built on the established genuine Volvo parts business foundation. The increased popularity of the 240 from 1975 through 1987 assured that the Volvo parts market would continue to grow.

The initial Volvo parts market growth was the result of public acceptance to earlier Volvo cars. The early success of the PV and P120 -- the sporty flair of the 1800 -- the timing of the 140/160 -- all represent the front line of the Volvo parts business.
The 240/260 provided a burst of speed to the genuine Volvo parts market. The 240/260 models relied on the established front line to get away. Once out in the open field, these models can be counted on to do some fancy running of their own!
The 240/260 matured the Volvo parts market.
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