I have a '92 740 estate with a B230F that has just over 200,000 miles on it. Last winter, and again this winter, I am experiencing a high pitch whine that seems to be emanating from the front of the vehicle. I can't pinpoint the exact location of the noise because it only occurs between ~15-25 mph. Also, the whine only occurs in the winter months when the temp is close to or below zero Fahrenheit. I first noticed the problem last winter, but it went away in the Spring, and now it's back again.

Also, it whines whether the engine is hot or cold, and during braking, accelerating, or just coasting, but only when it hits that specific speed range around 20mph. Finally, whatever is causing the whine does not seem to have any negative effects on engine performance.

I don't think it would have anything to do with the belts or pulleys, because the whine occurs at a specific speed range, not rpm range.

Could this problem be originating from the wheel bearings? I have read they last a long time, but still they are original.

In any case I would like to take a look at the wheel bearings; will I need any special tools for this?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions/comments

JTK

 

I doubt that it is the bearings. Does it do it when turning? I'd go more with brakes... still,it is interesting... Let us know the progress.

 

my 86 240 wagon did the same noise ... it would sound like a Turbo whine and sometimes a big jet getting ready for take off ... I found it to be a bad Support Bearing for the driveshaft ... it only showed it's butt in the colder temps ...

 

Hey thank you both for the input, and I'll definitely check into the support bearing. It looks like the bearing itself is pretty inexpensive, but how difficult is it too replace?

 

Not bad but it helps to have access to power tools and a lift; the rest is straightforward-just mark the alignmentof the driveshaft to avoid vibration later.

 

I have been enjoying that same wonderful sound from my '87 245. The jet reference is perfect...Didn't exist when it was warm out, but now that its frigid the old girl is screaming in pain until she's good and warm. Usually it quiets considerably, or entirely, after 10-15 minutes or 5-7 miles or at 70mph.. whichever comes first. My question is, how long can I drive it like this before it causes seriously expensive damage...? I know I can fix it, and the parts are only $20-25, but laying on the driveway in this weather is not appealing and the first shop I called promised it would be at least $300 just in labor... Any thoughts? Can I drive it until summer, or at least until it's a little warmer.?.New the Volvo obsession and looking for advice from some more experienced peers.
Thanks,
-Chad