Volvo Manual to Auto Change Info needed

[MXTECH]

I am in the process of buying a 95 Volvo tractor truck with a Volvo engine and transmission. It has the air-assist clutch that from what I understand can be a real pain when they dont work correctly. I am thinking of installing an Allison Transmission in the truck.
Does anyone have any info on the air-assist clutch, and where is a good source for used allison transmissions.
Also are there any forums that are geared to this type of truck.

Thanks in advance, John Curea

 

[davekc]

Go to your volvo dealer with vin# and see what allison would be compatable with your truck. A whole list of things have to be considered before attempting this. For example, what are your weight tolorances on the front, what will bolt to your engine, what torque specifications does everything have, what mounts, driveshaft alterations have to be considered. Just to name a few. Make sure you do your research on this as it could get ugly if you don't know what you are doing.
Davekc

 

[Glen Rice]

You have a great clutch setup now..Volvos work really well and require very little maintenance. The only service item you have is to make sure the clutch throwout bearing gets greased. It is a little unusual and you will need to caring a picture as most truckstops don't have a clue how to add grease. My 93 Volvo had the 9 speed and other than losing a throw out bearing due to the above mentioned problem of mechanics not knowing what to do, the clutch went 1.1 million miles when the truck was sold! And the best part is I could push the clutch in with just 2 fingers. Just remember to drive it like a pickup and don't double clutch as this is a syncronized tranny. Good luck..FYI..I don't believe you would be happy with the allsion as the torque of that little engine is pretty soft. Remeber it's only 732 inches.

 

[MXTECH]

Thanks for the advise!
The truck is sitting up in Canada as I write this, it was half way to the Niagara border when the driver had problems,it has a clutch problem and a throttle fault light. They changed the peddle, but the problem still persists, they are trying to troubleshoot the wiring. I was told that if it is the ECU, that piece of hardware runs about 2500.00 US!
The truck will not shift into reverse while it is running. The shop says that it needs a new clutch assembly. I wonder if it is the throw out bearing as you stated.

I'll keep you posted.
Thanks, John