The Volvo B 18 D is a 1,778 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1961 and 1974. It features a cast‑iron block, overhead valve (OHV) design with pushrods, and a single downdraft carburettor. This robust unit delivered approximately 75 kW (100 PS) and 147 Nm of torque, prized for its durability and straightforward mechanical nature.
Fitted primarily to the Amazon (120 Series) and early 140 Series sedans and wagons, the B 18 D was engineered for dependable, everyday transportation with an emphasis on longevity and ease of repair. Emissions controls were minimal in this era, with compliance generally meeting the nascent standards of the time (pre‑Euro 1).
One documented concern is oil sludge accumulation in the timing cover, potentially leading to timing gear wear. This issue, noted in Volvo Service Bulletin 1‑68, is often linked to infrequent oil changes or the use of non‑detergent oils. In 1969, Volvo introduced the B 20 engine, which succeeded the B 18 with increased displacement and power.
Production years 1961–1974 predate formal Euro emissions standards. Compliance was governed by national regulations of the era (e.g., Swedish EPA directives).
The Volvo B 18 D is a 1,778 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size sedans (1961-1974). It combines a simple OHV pushrod design with a single carburettor to deliver reliable, low‑maintenance performance. Designed for an era before formal emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical robustness over modern efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,778 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.14 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 75 kW (100 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 147 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburettor (Solex or Zenith) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 (non-detergent for early models) | |
| Dry weight | 140 kg |
The OHV design provides a broad, flat torque curve ideal for relaxed cruising but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment. Using modern detergent oil (e.g., SAE 20W-50) is critical to prevent sludge buildup in the timing cover, a common cause of premature gear wear per Volvo Service Bulletin 1-68. The simple carburettor is easy to service but sensitive to fuel quality; ethanol-blended fuels can damage internal components. Regular oil changes every 5,000-8,000 km are essential for longevity. The gear-driven timing system is robust but noisy compared to chains or belts.
Oil Specs: Early models specified non-detergent oil; modern detergent oils (SAE 20W-50) are recommended for sludge prevention (Volvo SB 1-68).
Emissions: Formal Euro standards did not exist. Compliance was based on national vehicle regulations of the 1960s.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE gross standards common for the era. Output varied slightly by carburettor type and market (Volvo Tech Spec 1962).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1964)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet (1962)
Volvo Service Bulletin 1-68
Swedish Environmental Protection Agency Historical Vehicle Regulations
The Volvo B 18 D was used across Volvo's Amazon (120 Series) and early 140 Series platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor carburettor and manifold revisions over its lifespan, creating minor interchange limits for ancillary components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the left side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Volvo Workshop Manual 1964). The code will read "B18D" or "B18B" (for lower compression). Visual identification: Cast iron block, prominent valve cover with "VOLVO" cast into it, single carburettor on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from B20: B18 has a smaller bore (84.14mm vs 88.9mm); blocks are not interchangeable. Ancillary parts (manifolds, carburettors) may vary by year and market; consult EPC for exact fitment.
The B 18 D's primary reliability risk is oil sludge accumulation in the timing cover, leading to gear wear. Volvo Service Bulletin 1-68 highlights this as a common failure mode in engines with poor maintenance history. Infrequent oil changes and the use of outdated non-detergent oils significantly increase this risk, making modern oil and strict service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1961-1974) and historical workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-18-D.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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