The Volvo B 280 F is a 2,849 cc, inline‑six petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1990. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with a 12-valve cylinder head and Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection, delivering outputs around 105 kW (143 PS). This engine provided smooth, linear power delivery for its era, with its robust cast-iron construction ensuring durability and ease of maintenance for executive sedans and wagons.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo 760 Series (764, 765) sedans and wagons, the B 280 F was engineered for refined cruising and effortless torque in premium vehicles. Emissions compliance for its time was managed through precise fuel metering and basic exhaust after-treatment, allowing it to meet Euro 1 standards as they were introduced during its production run.
One documented concern is wear in the fuel distributor unit of the K-Jetronic system, which can lead to erratic fuel delivery and poor running. This potential failure point, noted in Volvo's internal service documentation for the 760 Series, is often attributed to internal metering plunger wear or contamination. The B 280 F was eventually superseded by more advanced electronically fuel-injected variants in Volvo's lineup.
Production years 1985–1990 meet Euro 1 emissions standards for applicable markets (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Records).
The Volvo B 280 F is a 2,849 cc inline‑six petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and wagons (1985-1990). It combines a single overhead camshaft with Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection to deliver smooth, predictable power. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritized mechanical reliability and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,849 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.9 mm × 76.0 mm | |
| Power output | 105 kW (143 PS) @ 5,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 227 Nm @ 3,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral/Semi-Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 175 kg |
The SOHC inline-six design offers exceptionally smooth operation but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 15,000 km to maintain performance. Using a high-quality semi-synthetic oil (SAE 10W-40) is recommended for optimal engine protection. The K-Jetronic system demands meticulous cleanliness; contaminated fuel can rapidly damage the fuel distributor. Fuel distributor wear, as noted in Volvo service notes, is a known longevity concern on high-mileage examples, often manifesting as rough idle or hesitation.
Oil Specs: Recommends SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Volvo Owner's Manual 760 Series).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 1 standards for applicable markets (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Records).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards common for the era (Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B280).
Volvo Workshop Manual: 760 Series (1985-1990)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet: Engine B280
Volvo EPC Archive: Doc. VEP-1985
Swedish Transport Agency: Type Approval Records
The Volvo B 280 F was used across Volvo's 760 Series platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor running changes throughout its production, including updates to emission controls and ancillary components, but no major facelifts created significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat pad on the left-hand side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Volvo Workshop Manual 760 Series). The code will read "B280F" followed by the serial number. Visually, it is identifiable by its single camshaft cover spanning the inline-six configuration and the distinctive Bosch K-Jetronic fuel distributor and air flow sensor mounted on the intake manifold. Differentiation from the B230 engine is clear by displacement (2.8L vs 2.3L) and the six-cylinder layout. Service parts are generally consistent across the 1985-1990 production run, though emission-related components may vary by model year.
The B 280 F's primary reliability risk is wear or failure in the Bosch K-Jetronic fuel distributor, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Volvo service documentation notes this as a common failure point after 150,000 km, while general owner experience highlights the system's sensitivity to fuel quality. Extended periods of inactivity can cause internal components to seize, making preventative maintenance and fuel system cleanliness critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1985-1990) and Swedish Transport Agency historical service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-280-F.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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