Hi Paul,

"E-code" is shorthand for European code... which is a the spec for 240 headlamps in Europe.... and pretty much everywhere but North America. Much better headlamps than the plastic monstrosities we got here in the US. They're a "bolt on" upgrade, and bring the 240 up to the modern era as far as lighting is concerned. They pay for themselves if you live in deer country. They pop up on eBay, the classifieds here or on TurboBricks, FCP Groton may still sell aftermarket ones... or you can try one of the well known Volvo enthusiasts in Europe to track down a set for you.

http://www.ohio.edu/people/ridgely/e-code.htm

The 'A' grind camshaft is another non-US upgrade. It's a stock Volvo cam from other markets. It's more of a "liberation" for the engine than a huge upgrade in horsepower. The stock 'M' grind cam is quite restrictive, giving the motor a very narrow and 'specific' power band. The 'A' opens it up a bit. I think it might even improve fuel economy slightly. Since it's a "Volvo" cam, you don't have to worry about it wearing funny or doing nasty things to the idle.

I got mine from Dale at Avalanche performance(.com), along with an adjustable timing gear. Nice package. The adjustable gear lets you adjust the power band a bit in the RPM range. I have mine advanced 2 degrees, and the engine pulls nicely from 2500rpm on up.

-Ryan

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Athens, Ohio
1987 245 DL 324k, Dog-hauler
1990 245 DL 142k M47, E-codes, GT Sways/Braces, Dracos, A-cam
1990 744GLE 189K 16-valve
1991 745 GL 304k