Hello. Well, I feel a bit guilty so far, taking info from the people out here who are not only knowledgeable but willing to help, instead of giving back, so here go a couple more questions. Do we recommend use of semi-synthetic ATF in these cars? Anybody have any experience with that? Also, how often should the ATF be drained and replaced? Any caveats on that job? How about replacing the little screen and the usual gaskets? When or under what symptoms should this be done? In the owner's manual it appears there is an obstacle to getting the pan down that might complicate things. Car in question is a seemingly well-kept one owner 940 but with enough blanks in the service history that I am trying to establish one, but avoiding doing things unnecessarily. Thanks for the help. Have a good one.

if you have trans problems or poor shifting issues that are not resolved by the kick down cable, then use only Mobil One SYNTHETIC transmission fluid. it has worked miracles for us. we have tried others that did nothing to resolve our problems.

if there is no problem with the shifting, use conventional trans fluid. there are millions of volvos with billions of miles on autoboxes throughout the world, in extreme conditions, that need no extra assistance. thats why they are volvos. think of winters in sweden for example.

Agree with Ringlee that the full flush is the best way to go.
I wouldn't bother with a semi-synthetic. spend the few bucks more and go with full synthetic. I use AMSOIL ATF, Mobil 1 ATF would be my second choice.

You don't need to remove the pan or clean the strainer unless you feel like doing it once after buying the car. There is no replaceable filter in the pan, just a relatively course strainer. The regular service consists of draining the pan fluid and replacing it. But highly recommended is a fluid flush: see the 700/900 FAQ for complete instructions. And in your climate, you might want to consider using Mobil 1 ATF ($5 per quart at Autozone) which is a superb fluid and perfect for hot climates. It also reduces wear in the transmission.

about how many quarts become drained when draining the pan?

The most I've ever drained from any AW-XX transmission via the pan is about 3.5 qts. - draining overnight. Just purchased the IPD flush kit - simple rubber hose with a trans. cooler line fitting. Drained 8 qts. from my wife's 244 (same AW trans as in 940) without ever getting under car.