I was thinkin about an engine swap in my 88' 240DL but my friend suggested just tearing it down, rebuilding it and boring it out. what are your thoughts? I've heard a few different things about what i need after boring it out....one person said i'd jus need new pistons to fit and another said that i'd need pistons, new throttle body, and somthing else. whats the real deal. what all do i need for this job? and how much might it cost me? How much power is available through boring it out and/or jus rebuilding it? or would it make more sense to jus buy an engine and switch it? I want my baby to run as best as machanically possible. Thanks for all your help.

Redhead

How about you leave it in, install the VX cam (from IPD) or a KG Trimning cam, any of the performance cams, and see how you like that?
Expenses should be in the $250 range including valve adjustment, and it may give you all you need.
If you decide you don't like it, I'm always looking for a good used performance cam....

There's really not much to be gained from a big-bore kit of any kind with these, and as far as I know there aren't aftermarket stroker cranks or any such thing. Volvo made its real power in these packages with camshaft design, and of course with the Turbo engines (B21FT or B230FT).
A good friend of mine has a nicely converted '89 244GL with a '91 940T engine in it. Complete driveline including AW71 transmission. Nearly a drop-in fit. The wiring takes a bit of work depending on which system you go with but it can all fit into the stock 240 locations and looks factory in his car.

But hey, another guy I know has a Chevy 305 in his 76 245.... depends what you're into I guess.
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Rob Bareiss, New London CT ::: '87 244DL/M47- 230K, 88 744GLE- 220K, 82 245T-181K Also responsible for the care and feeding of: 88 745GLE, 231K, 87 244DL, 239K, 94 855GLT 189K