Specifications

1979 Volvo 264 265
Check coolant level
The cooling system must be filled with coolant and not leak to operate at maximum efficiency. Check
the coolant level when filling fuel. The level should be between the "Max" and "Min" marks on the
expansion tank. The check should be made with particular thoroughness when the engine is new or the
cooling system has been drained.
Do not remove the filler cap other than for topping-up with coolant. Frequent removal may prevent
coolant circulation between the engine and the expansion tank during engine warming up and cooling.
Top up with coolant
Top up with coolant by filling the expansion tank when level is at the "Min" mark. Use a mixture of 50
percent anti-freeze/summer coolant and 50 percent water all the year round. Top up to the "Max" mark.
If the engine is warm, and you are going to top up coolant, unscrew the cap slowly in order to allow any
excess pressure to escape.
Note: Do not top up with water only. Water by itself reduces the rust-protective and anti-freeze qualities
of the coolant and has a lower boiling point. It can also cause damage to the cooling system if it should
freeze.
pg. 60 Alternator, jump starting
Note: This car is equipped with an alternator.
When changing the battery or when carrying out work involving the electrical system, the following
should be observed:
1 A battery connection to the wrong terminal will damage the diodes. Before connections are made,
check the polarity of the battery with a voltmeter.
2 If booster batteries are used for starting, they must be properly connected to prevent the diodes from
being damaged.
For correct connection, see next section, titled jump starting.
3 If a fast charger is used for charging the battery, the battery leads should be disconnected.
4 Never disconnect the battery circuit (for example, to change the battery) while the engine is running,
as this will immediately ruin the alternator.
Always make sure that all the battery connections are properly tightened.
5 If any electrical welding work is made on the vehicle, the ground lead and all the connecting cables of
the alternator must be disconnected and the welder wires placed as near the welding point as possible.
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