I am thinking of doing an engine swap into a later model, from 85 740 GLE to as late as possible. I would like to use my present instrument panel though as it has the tach for the alternator signal(diesel).

Could somebody please confirm that the same instrument panel shape/size was used up to 1990 700 series or did it go beyond?

I appreciate the knowledge on this board.

Thanks, Steve

I'm guessing the wiring would be different no matter what. Volvo likes making small, running changes even within model years that will drive you crazy if you start tinkering with things, and knowing that there are several speedometers, I'm thinking that the wiring behind the dash is going to be different.

In 740s the dashboard was changed for the 91 model year, 760s got the new dash for 89. All clusters from 83-90 will fit in the old style dash, but be aware that there are several different (incompatible) versions of the speedometer over the years. You will probably be able to do what you want, but it will require disassembling both clusters and installing the diesel tach in the original cluster from the car you are using. I don't know if this is plug and play or if it will require a bit of creative wiring.

I had a 740 90 once and it was a 940 modell dashboard in it. i wouldn`t be so sure that the instruments would fit.
on the other hand you will clearly se the difference between the dashboards as the instrument housing isn`t rektangular any more in the new model.
--
V70 2,5T -98