The Volvo B 19 K is a 1,986 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1969 and 1974. It features a cast‑iron block, overhead valve (OHV) design with pushrods, and a twin‑choke downdraft carburettor. This unit delivered approximately 74 kW (100 PS) and 158 Nm of torque, engineered as a transitional model between the B18 and the larger B20.
Fitted primarily to the Amazon (120 Series) and 140 Series sedans and wagons, the B 19 K was designed to offer a balance of increased displacement over the B18 while maintaining the robust, low‑maintenance character of its predecessor. Emissions controls remained minimal, with compliance generally meeting the national standards of the era (pre‑Euro 1).
One documented concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing drift. This issue, noted in Volvo Service Bulletin 3‑71, is often linked to lubrication deficiencies or the use of incorrect oil viscosity. The B 19 K was superseded by the more powerful B20 engine.
Production years 1969–1974 predate formal Euro emissions standards. Compliance was governed by national regulations of the era (e.g., Swedish EPA directives).
The Volvo B 19 K is a 1,986 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size sedans (1969-1974). It combines a simple OHV pushrod design with a twin-choke 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 | 1,986 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.9 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (100 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 158 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-choke downdraft carburettor (Solex) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 (detergent) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The OHV design provides a broad, flat torque curve ideal for relaxed cruising but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment. Using modern detergent oil (SAE 20W-50) is critical to ensure proper lubrication of the distributor drive gear, a known wear point per Volvo Service Bulletin 3-71. The twin-choke carburettor is more complex than single-choke units but offers better throttle response; it is sensitive to fuel quality and requires precise tuning. 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: Modern detergent oil (SAE 20W-50) is specified to prevent wear on the distributor drive gear (Volvo SB 3-71).
Emissions: Formal Euro standards did not exist. Compliance was based on national vehicle regulations of the 1960s/70s.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE gross standards common for the era. Output is consistent across markets for this model (Volvo Tech Spec 1969).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1969)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet (1969)
Volvo Service Bulletin 3-71
Swedish Environmental Protection Agency Historical Vehicle Regulations
The Volvo B 19 K was used across Volvo's Amazon (120 Series) and 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 1969). The code will read "B19K". Visual identification: Cast iron block, prominent valve cover with "VOLVO" cast into it, twin-choke Solex carburettor on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from B18: B19 has a larger bore (88.9mm vs 84.14mm). Critical differentiation from B20: B19 has a lower compression ratio (8.7:1 vs 9.0:1 or higher) and different carburettor jetting. Ancillary parts may vary by year; consult EPC for exact fitment.
The B 19 K's primary reliability risk is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, potentially leading to ignition timing faults. Volvo Service Bulletin 3-71 highlights this as a common failure mode, often linked to the use of incorrect oil viscosity or extended service intervals. Ensuring correct lubrication is critical for preventing this specific wear issue.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1969-1974) and historical workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-19-K.
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