641 Volvo 641 Specifications & Technical Data (1976—1978)

Off-Road Performance

The 641 features excellent off-road negotiability and tractive power, even in difficult terrain and poor ground conditions, thanks to its large wheels, differential lock and 4-wheel drive.

Manoeuvrability in confined spaces

The 621 and 641 have wide lock-to-lock front-wheel turning angles and large steering brakes. They are therefore easy to manoeuvre and ideal for use on building sites. Because of their versatility, they are often able to replace less manoeuvrable machines and can be used by several different contractors for ground work, foundation work, prefabricated wall units, roof trusses, laying roofs etc. – from ground breaking to finished building.

Power-shift gearbox and torque converter

The VOLVO BM 621 and 641 have a well-balanced transmission that ensures maximum efficiency and performance. Automatically increased torque augments the machine’s tractive and penetration power. Together with the Power-shift gearbox, which permits up/down and forward/reverse shifting without using the clutch and without losing engine speed, the torque converter provides short work cycles and smooth operation.

Low fuel consumption. Long service life. Top economy.

Power is provided by the tough, reliable VOLVO BM D 42 diesel engine, renowned for heavy-duty durability and minimal downtime. It has four cylinders, a displacement of 4.2 litres and develops 59 kW SAE at 38.4 rev/sec. (80 hp SAE at 2300 rev/min). The direct-injection engine has wet replaceable cylinder liners. The pistons are made of light alloy and the crankshaft is journalled in five bearings which have been surface-hardened for long life. The air cleaner has a dry air filter and cyclone cleaner, while the oil cooler is water-cooled. The well-tuned injection system ensures low fuel consumption and long engine life.

Balancing unit provides vibrationless operation

The VOLVO BM D 42 is equipped with a special balancing unit consisting of two weights that counter-rotate at twice the speed of the engine. Result: a four-cylinder engine that is extraordinarily vibration-free.

Effective air cleaning provides optimal engine care

The VOLVO BM 621 and 641 are equipped with a high-capacity air cleaning system to keep the engine in tip-top shape. The intake air is first cleaned in double cyclone cleaners where heavier particles are separated and then removed through an ejector unit to be expelled with the engine exhaust gases. The air is then fine-filtered by a large, replaceable paper filter and a smaller safety filter. An indicator in the cab shows red when the filter should be cleaned or changed.

Easy to service – simple to inspect

Change of air filter – no problem and plenty of space. Inspection of transmission oil level. The dipstick is easily accessible through a special opening in the frame. The battery can be withdrawn for inspection and topping-up by a single easy manipulation. The hydraulic reservoir is equipped with a level tube which provides instant, accurate information on the quantity of hydraulic oil. The filler points for coolant, diesel oil and hydraulic oil are assembled under one cover. An enclosed magnetic filter is also fitted in the cap on the hydraulic reservoir.

Well-designed and practical in every detail

Long years of experience in various countries and under the most diverse working conditions have gradually led to the many improvements embodied in the present-day versions of the 621 and 641 Allrounders. Practical and functional improvements which augmented both the machine efficiency and driver comfort.Easy-to-read instruments and check-lampsGood close-up visibility – no bulky components to obstruct visibilityWell-placed boarding steps ensure easy cab entrySturdy protective grille enhances cab safetyEasy, precise gear shifting with short movements between positions. Safety starter – engine can only be started in neutral.Eyecatching flashers – flexible rubber mountingHeavy-duty towing hitch (optional)Recessed, well-protected working and driving lightsCab ventilator to improve air exchange rate on hot days (optional)Black-enamelled silencer with ejector exhaust device from air cleanerLowerable rotating flashing beacon (optional)Heavy-duty handles and boarding steps make it easy to climb on to the machine for inspection.

Excellent visibility and driver comfort

The entire cab is designed to make the driver’s work easier, safer and more efficient. The driver sits far forward between the side-arms and has an excellent view of his work through the spacious wrap-around window. He can work safely and accurately, since he can always see what the machine and attachment are doing. The new, wider, well-appointed cab is arranged to give great freedom of movement and outstanding comfort. The rubber-mounted cab is warm, snug and weatherproof and provided with excellent sound insulation. Standard equipment includes a two-speed heating fan located under the seat to ensure even heating throughout the cab. The cab can also be equipped with a ventilator for more rapid air exchange when the weather is uncomfortably hot. The seat, which is upholstered in nylon pile, can be adjusted up and down and laterally. Spring resiliency and the angle of the backrest are also adjustable for maximum individual comfort.

Driver safety

Many details have been specially designed with the driver’s safety in mind. Safety grilles around the windows protect against external knocks and blows. The cab is impact-tested and approved. Fitted with wide, non-skid boarding steps. Safety belts are available as optional equipment. Well-placed handles and boarding steps on the outside facilitate daily service routines. A pneumatic plunger holds the door in position.

Sturdy basic construction

The 621 and 641 loaders are sturdy, stable machines equipped as standard with 1 m³ (35 ft³) buckets. They are built up of tried-and-tested components, designed to take plenty of punishment. Large, heavy-duty wheels provide ample tractive force and carrying capacity.