Volvo 120/130 Amazon (1955 - 1970)

Last updated 11 December 2018

Buying Guide

Bodywork

• Check for rust around the windscreen – rot here can destroy the bulkhead.
• Walls of the footwell are also at risk so remove the cardboard trim and check.
• Rear wheelarchs are often the first to go, but front wings and doors can also corrode as can the sills.
• The spare wheel well drain can block, causing the metal to rust.
• If you’re looking at an estate, check the split tailgate as this can badly rot.
• Check for rust in the front chassis legs, just underneath the bottom of the radiator.
• The front wings can rot around the headlamps.

Engine, Gearbox & Suspension

• Amazon engines are extremely long-lived – as long as they’re regularly serviced.
• Correct Volvo oil filters must be used as they include a non-return valve to prevent the bearings being oil starved.
• Transmissions are durable – overdrive makes crusing less stressful, and less noisy.
• Suspension bushes can wear.
• Excessive oil use is probably down to failing piston rings.
• Check for oil leaks from the front and rear crank oil seals (which are made of felt).
• Differential oil seals are also made of felt and can wear.
• Rock the water pump to check for leaks – also make sure the top and bottom radiator hoses aren’t cracked.

 Electrics, heating and trim

• Front and rear bumpers are chrome plated and repairs here are expensive.
• Dash tops often wear and split in the sun.
• Seats split and the webbing beneath the base cushion can sag.
• New carpets are available, but some interior trim is hard to find.
• Check the floor-mounted dip switch for the headlights is functioning correctly.
• Heater box drainage hole can block, causing the heater core to rot.
• If overdrive fails to engage, inspect the solenoid.
• If the dynamo is failing to charge the battery, check the voltage regulator. Non-Bosch items can quickly wear.

 Can I run it on unleaded?

• Retard the ignition by 8.5 degrees and the engine will run happily – although valve seat recession will occur eventually.