Volvo 242 differential

[RealHumanBean]

Hey all, looking for some information on finding a 1979 242 differential. I've done some reading around and the differential appears to be a Dana 30.

The last couple of months, especially when it's been cold there's this howling-grinding sound coming from my differential's general area, I had a mechanic check the fluid the last time I had it in and it a decent amount of metal shavings hanging out in there. So seems like it's curtains for the old diff.

Right now I'm looking for a differential or a rebuild kit. Anyone know a good place to look?

[dl242gt]

Your stock 79 differential is a Volvo 1030 model. the carrier is Dana 30 compatible but it's not the same because Volvo doesn't use a different carrier when the ring and pinion ratio changes. The sound you are describing seems like it's on it's way out. I would suggest a good used rear axle and swap that in. You can check the ratio on the sticker just to the left of the pumpkin on the axle. Most of the automatic cars use a 3.73 which is the same as many 79 models. The only change you'd have to make is if you use the stronger 1031 axle. You may need to swap the flange on the pinion so it can use your driveshaft.

If you are going to have your setup rebuilt. I would try shopping at Randys Ring and Pinion. It's where I got my rebuild parts when I had a shop rebuild the diff in my 82 turbo. Make sure you buy parts for you Volvo application. Not parts for a Dana 30.

[apachechef]

Originally Posted by RealHumanBean

Hey all, looking for some information on finding a 1979 242 differential. I've done some reading around and the differential appears to be a Dana 30.

The last couple of months, especially when it's been cold there's this howling-grinding sound coming from my differential's general area, I had a mechanic check the fluid the last time I had it in and it a decent amount of metal shavings hanging out in there. So seems like it's curtains for the old diff.

Right now I'm looking for a differential or a rebuild kit. Anyone know a good place to look?

I have rear axle from a 79 GT gathering dust in my garage, Western NY
want it?

[RealHumanBean]

Originally Posted by dl242gt

Your stock 79 differential is a Volvo 1030 model. the carrier is Dana 30 compatible but it's not the same because Volvo doesn't use a different carrier when the ring and pinion ratio changes. The sound you are describing seems like it's on it's way out. I would suggest a good used rear axle and swap that in. You can check the ratio on the sticker just to the left of the pumpkin on the axle. Most of the automatic cars use a 3.73 which is the same as many 79 models. The only change you'd have to make is if you use the stronger 1031 axle. You may need to swap the flange on the pinion so it can use your driveshaft.

If you are going to have your setup rebuilt. I would try shopping at Randys Ring and Pinion. It's where I got my rebuild parts when I had a shop rebuild the diff in my 82 turbo. Make sure you buy parts for you Volvo application. Not parts for a Dana 30.

Thanks man, that was a big help. Much appreciated

[RealHumanBean]

Originally Posted by apachechef

I have rear axle from a 79 GT gathering dust in my garage, Western NY
want it?

Sure thing, sent a private message about it, thanks!