I know that I am in the wrong forum for this but nobody as been on the 122 forum for months, so I thought some of you guys might know. I am dickering on an old 1966 Volvo 122 and the differential is a little noisy. Is the 122 a model I should avoid? Is the differntial a deal killer? The car is cheep and runs well except for the whine in the differential. I know nothing about the 122s. Please advise.
Thanks! Don

Hi Don,
I drove a 122S for several years. I don't recall the rear end being particularly noisy. My present 91 240 has whined quite noticablyover the last 40K, especially if it has sat for several days, and I don't feel concerned about it at all.
Overall, my 240 has a lot more tranny and diff noise than I ever remember of the 122.
As far as reliability, it's my opinion that the 122 was the model that created the Volvo bullet-proof image. They are a very simple auto to repair and maintain.

If the diff fails you can swap out the whole rear axle. I'm not sure what all will fit, P1800 for sure, maybe even one from an early 142. My opinion...go for it.

Thanks for the info. I think I have locked in the deal. I am looking forward to tinkering with a 122.

Don