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Volvo 1990 740 Model
NOTE: Refer to section "Automatic transmission" for additional trailer hauling
tips.
pg. 63 Winter driving
Cold weather precautions
If you wish to check your car before the approach of cold weather, the following advice is worth noting:
Make sure that the engine coolant contains at least 50 percent antifreeze: that is, 5.0 qts. (4.25 liters)
Volvo original
coolant/antifreeze. This gives protection against freezing down to -31°F (-35°C). See section "Coolant".
The use of "recycled" antifreeze is not approved by Volvo.
Try to keep the fuel tank well filled - this prevents the formation of condensation in the tank.
In addition in extremely cold weather conditions it is worthwhile to add fuel line de-icer before
refueling.
Use the correct grade of engine oil to avoid difficulties when starting. See section "Engine oil".
The load placed on the battery is greater during the winter since the heater, windshield wipers,
lighting etc. are used more often.
Moreover, the capacity of the battery decreases as the temperature drops. In very cold weather, a poorly
charged battery can
freeze and be damaged. It is therefore advisable to check the state of charge more frequently and spray
an anti-rust oil on the
battery posts.
The viscosity of the engine oil is important. Oil with low viscosity (thinner oil) improves cold-
weather starting as well as
decreasing fuel consumption while the engine is warming up. For winter use, 5W-30 oil, particularly the
synthetic type, is
recommended.
Be sure to use good quality oil but do not use this cold-weather oil for hard driving or in warm weather.
See section "Engine oil" for more information.
Use lock spray or grease in the locks.
NOTE: Avoid the use of de-icing sprays as they can cause damage to the
locks.
To prevent the washer reservoir from freezing, add washer solvents containing antifreeze. This is
important since the dirt is
often splashed on the windshield during winter driving, thus requiring frequent use of the washers and
wipers. The Volvo
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1990/1990_740/90740_13.htm (8 of 10)12/30/2006 8:25:59 AM
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