Hey all new Volvo owner here, just scored a sweet deal. Got a 240 DL wagon and the guy gave me a built 2.5 stroker to put in the car. Have everything I need to get the job done and I can do the work but I’m just not familiar with Volvos and their motors. How much of a difference can I expect from the new motor? I’m not expecting any crazy gains or major performance upgrade, I bought it because I love wagons but I’d like to know what differences this new motor will make. I’m not urged to swap it yet but if there are some outstanding differences I will do it sooner rather than later. Thank you anyone for input and please excuse my lack of knowledge.

 

Nice looking motor - that's a 16valve head from an early 90's 740 or 940 - Originally called a B234. (~2.3 liter, 4 valves per cyl) Stock they had about 20 more hp than a standard B230. The B230 8 valve is a non-interference engine - the 16 valve head bends valves when the cam belt comes off. The 16v block had balance shafts - two rotating counterbalance shafts driven by a belt at double engine speed - same setup as a 944 porsche 2.5 liter engine. I don't see where a balance belt or the shaft housings will fit/bolt on - and what's under that round cover to the right of the front pulley/vibration damper? The pulley underneath drives the oil pump/distributor - is that just a custom decorative/protective cover?

It would be more fun to put an american V8 in as many have done. The differential is strong enough stock for the torque of a V8.