Page 10:65 Wintertime and before a long-distance trip

Wintertime

If you yourself wish to check your car in order to avoid unnecessary
trouble before the approach of the cold season, the following advice is
worth noting:

1. Make sure that the Glycol additve in the engine cooling system is
     approx. 50 %. This provides protection against freezing down to
     about -35°C (-31°F).
     See page 48 with regard to changing the coolant.

2. Always try to keep the fuel tank well-filled in order to prevent con-
     densation water forming in the fuel tank.
     Also use (appropriate for your car engine) a suitable carburettor de-
     icer, which should be added before filling with petrol.

3. Use more viscous oils for the engine lubricating systems in order to
     avoid starting difficulties.
     See oil recommendations on page 46.

4. The Battery has to stand up to greater stresses during winter than
     during summer, since lighting, etc., is used more often. In addition,
     the capacity of the battey drops with the temperature.
     Check the battery and grease the battery terminals.

5. During the wintertime, never park with the parking brake applied
     but engage first gear or reverse instead and preferably block the
     wheels.

6. In order to prevent the headlamp/windscreen washer fluid from
     freezing up during the wintertime, the water in the reservoir should
     be mixed with anti-freeze (use Volvo washer fluid). This is important
     since dirt and water are often splashed up on to the windscreen
     during winter driving, this requiring frequent use of the washers and
     wipers.
     Suitable mixing ratio (water/washer fluid) is:
     Between ± 0° and -5°C: 15 % washer fluid
     Between - 5° and -10°C: 25 % washer fluid
     Between - 10° and -15°C: 35 % washer fluid



7. To avoid being confronted with frozen door locks, "lubricate" them
     in good time with some graphite.


Before a long distance trip

If you are thinking of taking your car on a fairly long journey, have it
fully checked.
It is always a good idea to ensure that you have, at least on a small
scale, the most essential spare parts. Many workshops have special
kits for this purpose (bulbs, fuses, etc.).
If you prefer to look over you vehicle yourself, the following hints are
worth nothing:

  • Check that the engine is running smootly and that fuel consump-
         tion is normal.

  • Check the engine and drive with a view to checking for oil, coolant
         and fuel leakage.

  • Check the drive belts-condition and tension. Replace worn belts.

  • Check the condition of the battery.

  • Check the tyres thoroughly, including the spare tyre. Replace where
         necessary

  • Have the brakes, front wheels and steering checked.

  • Check the lighting

  • Check the tool equipment.
         A warning triangle is necessary when traveling in certain countries
         (In great Britain left-assymetrical headlamps).

    If you intend travelling to countries where it is diificult to obtain fuel
    with the recommended octane rating, the engine can be adapted ac-
    cordingly to a certain extent.





  • Text and pictures from owners manual yearmodel 1979

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