THE PORTAL HUB - Pinzgauers, Haflingers, Volvo 303s and more!

I currently have a 710m that I am looking to upgrade to a 6x6 model. I have had Pinzgauers for 5 years and really enjoy them. I have never even seen a Volvo in person, and only know what I have researched about them. I would like opinions on pros and cons of the Volvo and Pinz 6x6 models.

I spoke to a dealer in California, and he said you cange a lot of the parts through Volvo. Other parts could be acguired threw other companies, fact or fiction?

My V.O.E. will always go with the Pinzgauer over the Volvo.
At least most of the Pinz parts can be obtained within a couple days. Not so with the Volvo.
Do a test run to a wrecking yard and try to find a Mid 70's 240S.
Most U.S. 240's had 4 cylinder engines

Justin, I'd vote 712, and wouldnt you know it!, i Just happen to have one for sale Send me a PM if you would like to discuss

You all make it seem as if owning a Volvo is a disaster. There is no question that specific parts can be a challenge to locate. They are available, but they may need to be sourced from Europe and it might involve the need to view sites in other languages (e.g. Swedish). Many of the parts are shared with Landrovers too,so that may involve knowing the Landrover part number. I had to do this for brake components for example. The other option is to do some conversions to more easily found parts. Many Volvos in Europe have had engine swaps with diesels that have worked well. An engine swap in a Volvo is reportedly much easier than in a Pinzgauer. The B30A engine itself is fairly ubiquitous since it is the same engine used in many boats. There are kits for fuel injection, power steering, disc brakes, etc. One of the key decisions for me in getting a Volvo was the better capability of maintaining a high freeway cruising speed since I don't live near any good offroad areas. It comes down to personal preferences.

Cheers,
Greg

Probably easier to source parts for a Noriker..




that will keep newbies srcambling for pics....

Personally,I prefer driving my 6x6 Volvo more than my 712. Smoother,easier to steer and more power. To each his own.
Mark

Key word there is "drive"...

Brian,
Jim LOVES the Volvo. He even has fondly nicknamed it The Albatross. For those of you who are not familiar with the Rime of the Ancient Mariner, you won't get it. Even so, this is not a vehicle he has worked on before so there is a learning curve. The same thing probably occurs when people take their beloved Pinzgauers to a mechanic that is used to working on Fords and Chevys. The reason that Volvo is taking up so much time is because Jim is venturing into relatively uncharted territory by converting the original B30A to fuel injection. If you followed the fuel injection "attempts" by various folks on Pinzgauers over the last few years, you will know how complicated this can be. Jim accomplished fuel injection on the Pinzgauer a long time ago and his personal Pinzgauer seems to have done quite well since it was converted.

Cheers,
Greg

Each vehicle type has special attributes. I like the way the Volvo drives, so much quieter than the Pinz. But the Pinz is more nimble .
While trouble shooting is more difficult on the Volvo it is a safer family vehicle and a bit friendlier for camping. One other plus is highway speed, you can only go up to 55MPH with 3 axles in Ca.
I have always believed you pick what best suits your needs
Now I got to go try another Data log session in the rain

Ahh, but my 712 is registered as an SUV, so the three axle truck limitation in CA does not apply. But then I usually cruise at about 60-65 anyway (with TD tranny, at 3000 - 3200 rpm) and never been challenged about going too fast.

At least that is the way I consider it, and I'll stick to that in court!

I've ridden in a Volvo and I think I might like it better than a Pinz except 1) I haven't got a Volvo, and 2) the parts issue is a concern for me.

Can't wait to see the Albatross arise again, as soon as it is set free from around Jim's neck...

Jim M.
712W and 710M

Never riden in a 6*6 Volvo. Have a couple of times in a rust bucket 4*4. The 303 reminded me of the old town cars. as it seemed we were at sea as we drove down the high way. Does the 6*6 have the same suspension setup?