I just bought a 1973 model 144. I am in the process of fixing what needs to be fixed. My garage doesn't normally work on Volvos, but they are good mechanics and close to my house.

Question: On the highway the engine seems to have very high RPMs. The engine is a B20B (dual carburetor version). It shifts into the highest gear it goes into at about 40 Mph (after revving very high) and stays there. I have had it up to 80Mph so far.

My question is whether I should ask my mechanic to take it out and guess whether or not it isn't shifting into 4th gear. Perhaps a 73 model 144 just sounds as if it is revving high when on the highway and I shouldn't worry about it. But then again, maybe I am driving in 3rd gear at high speeds and that is bad. It doesn't sound like the engine is coming apart or anything, and it is a lower rev than just before it shifts. But it is definitely a higher sound than in my old toyotas and hondas that I have owned.

I am a neophyte when it comes to Volvos, so I need a general opinion on this.

Greg MacIsaac