Interior screws and fixings

[Challo]

Due to a coolant leak I had to remove the carpet, and some of the trim from the drivers side. Now I’m starting to put it back together I have noticed that I’m missing some of the screws / fixings to hold the plastic panels in place.

For example the knee roll I removed under the steering wheel is only held on with 2 screws and a plastic fixing so it hangs down. Also the centre arm rest lid is missing the standard screws so I found some in my garage but are the wrong size.

Did Volvo use a standard set of screws / fixings for the interior and can you buy replacements today?

[Laird Scooby]

Your best bet Chris is to make a list of which screws you need, what they secure and where exactly and get yourself along to your friendly local Volvo dealer so they can find the parts you need and show you the pretty pictures on the parts files (on computer) so you can confirm which you actually need.

Then wait for a fortnight as they will likely have to come from GCP in Sweden.......... won't be cheap either!

[Forrest]

I use a different approach. Provided I have one of the originals I measure it with a vernier calliper and buy the closest approximation from eBay or other suitable online retailer.

The main things to check are length and gauge. For the closest match also consider head dimensions and type; most are pan-head torx T20 or T25. There is also a distinction in the thread between those designed to screw into soft plastic, hard plastic or metal.

This approach has worked well for me across both Volvo and VW restorations. It also presents an opportunity to upgrade. For example, on two of my Volvos I have replaced the 4.8 x 32 screws that hold the front air guide to the bottom of the radiator with almost identical stainless steel alternatives which will be less inclined to rust.

[Challo]

Thanks. Im going to start to make a list of the missing ones and then see if I have an original screw/fixing to check the sizing buy one similar.

There isn't loads missing but enough to mean some of the plastics arent held in place properly.

[Laird Scooby]

Originally Posted by Forrest

For the closest match also consider head dimensions and type; most are pan-head torx T20 or T25.

This one is a 740, not a 940 - hardly any Torx fasteners! Mostly any self-tappers will be 3.6 x19 Pan Pozi but given that Chris has had so much of the interior out and knowing there are a variety of different screws (the armrest cover hinge screws for example), what i suggested is the only logical way really.

Normally i would have suggested exactly what you did (hence knowing most are 3.6 x 19) but because i also have a good idea what other trim has to come out having added soundproofing and changed the carpets in mine, i know there's a variety of fixings in there. Sometimes even on the same piece of trim there are different types of screw - self-tappers and machine screws, turn-button fixings and so on.