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It is only fitting that I introduce myself first. I'm Marco and live in the Seattle area. I've been building, fixing and tracking cars for the better part of 20 years. I've owned from VW beetles to 911s, 928s, MR2, Z cars, MGs, etc. My uncle had a 122 for a long time and I remember rather fondly the times he took me for rides around the neighborhood. I've always had a thing for Volvo 122 (this is how I knew them). I like the lines as it reminds me of the Alfa Giulietta Sprint of the 50s.
Well, 2 weeks ago I took the plunge and bought a 1964 Volvo 122s (coupe). I saw it advertised on the local craigslist. Talked to the owner looked at the car and it seem in decent enough condition to be worth having as a running project. There is very little rust with only a couple of areas that need attention soon (rear side of rocker and a couple under the car). The car wasn't running because the owner broke one of the SUs trying to reinstall a new jet (he basically cross threaded where the flexible line bolts to the fuel bowl and therefore fuel leaked all over the place). I went on vacations for 10 days, which delayed me picking the car up. As soon as I got back, I purchased a used set of SUs, cleaned them and eye ball tuned them. Today, I went to the see the car and change the carburetors. I installed them, the car started, did a light tune (by ear). Then decided to drive 50 miles back home with my new car. I was a bit apprehensive to drive for a long distance with a car I didn't know and feel like barely running. Also, the brakes where a bit of a joke and required pumping and a lots of muscle. I couldn't resist, excitement prevailed over reason.
I am happy to report that the car made it without a glitch and did quite well. I actually enjoy the ride a lot - very much so. Aside from the fact that it required a lot of planning to ensure braking and turns where accounted for in advance. The car felt very floaty and moved a lot (not very precise to say the least). All that will change in time. My plan is to keep the car running and concentrate on the suspension and brakes for now. Do a bit of bodywork to stop any rust and prime it. While running, I want to build a B20 in parallel - something in the 150HP range. Once I have the car where I want in terms of performance, I will likely do a paint job on it. This will not be a show car, but rather a strong runner. I am very tempted to do a roller paint job. I've seen quite a few good examples done with this method - we'll see...
Quick question - based on what I've read, the single circuit brake system (no servo), cannot be upgraded to larger master cylinder correct? Brakes are very important to me and my first prioroty in terms of performance.
Thank you and I look forward to this project.
Cheers,
Marco
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