What could be causing a slight vibration when driving my 20-year-old Volvo 740 through lower gears?

Six months ago I took the cylinder head off my 20-year-old Automatic Volvo 740 Estate to investigate a fairly severe vibration in the engine, even when simply idling. I never found a fault but on re-assembly (using new parts as necessary) the vibration had gone. It appears I altered something in the process of dismantling and re-assembly but just what remains a mystery. The car has run OK since then apart from a slight vibration when driving the car hard through the lower gears. Any idea what may be causing that? The car has done 180,000 miles. The cylinders are in particularly good order.

Asked on 21 May 2011 by ED, Chateauneuf-du-Faou, Finistere, France

Answered by Honest John
I'm sorry you may have got the wrong impression. I was a car trader, not a mechanic. Sometimes I know about faults in the way a trader gets to know. But I don't ever get my hands dirty. I'm allergic to engine oil. We do have a resident mechanic at Ask HJ at www.honestjohn.co.uk, but you have to ask.
Similar questions
I have a 2012 3.0-litre diesel Audi Q5 and have noticed a strong vibration under my feet starting at 60mph. It stays, and arguably gets worse, the faster I go. It’s not really through the steering wheel...
I have a 2009 BMW 120d M sport with 98,000 miles on the clock from new. The car has developed a severe vibration through the gear lever and clutch pedal. Any suggestions as to the cause?
My Skoda Yeti has done 70,000 miles and a short time ago a vibration could be felt when accelerating between 2000 and 2500rpm in any gear. There is no noise that accompanies the vibration. My two local...
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer