Volvo BM - The machines that never give up

Volvo BM – robust machines with cult status

Volvo BM is one of the most well-known product lines within construction and agricultural machinery. Models such as the 4300, 4200, 4500, 4400 and the classic BM wheel loaders have achieved almost legendary status – and for good reason.

Volvo BM machines are built to last, often well beyond 20–30 years. Many are still in daily operation in forestry, farming, industry and gravel pits – sometimes with more than 25,000–35,000 operating hours behind them.

Background: What does Volvo BM stand for?

Volvo BM stands for Volvo Bolinder-Munktell and is the result of a merger between two historic Swedish machinery manufacturers:

• Bolinder-Munktell (BM) – founded in 1832 by the Munktell brothers and one of Sweden’s oldest industrial companies. Early production included agricultural machinery, tractors, industrial equipment and engines.
• Volvo – acquired a stake in Bolinder-Munktell during the 1950s–60s. BM was later fully integrated into Volvo’s construction machinery operations.

From the 1960s onwards, the name Volvo BM was used for Volvo’s heavy machinery within construction, industry, agriculture and forestry. This is why the name remained even when Volvo took full responsibility for design and production.

Where and when were Volvo BM machines manufactured?

The main factory was located in Eskilstuna, where BM had production dating back to the 19th century. Other important production sites included:

• Arvika – wheel loaders
• Hallsberg – components and hydraulics
• Köping – gearboxes and drivetrains

Eskilstuna was the heart of Volvo BM, which is why these machines are still often referred to as “Eskilstuna machines”.

The classic Volvo BM era spans from 1965 to 1993. After that, the BM designation was phased out and replaced by Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE).

Why are Volvo BM machines still so popular today?

• Heavy-duty construction
  Thick steel and no lightweight compromises.
• Simple engineering
  No advanced electronics – making them easier and cheaper to maintain.
• Continued availability of spare parts
  Strong demand keeps parts in circulation.
• Built to last
  Many machines with over 30,000 operating hours are still in daily use.
• Low cost of ownership
  Volvo BM machines are surprisingly cost-effective to keep running.

Volvo BM spare parts – what is most in demand?

The Volvo BM spare parts Agrocon most commonly works with include:

• Bushings
• Bearing shells
• Hydraulic cylinders
• Lift arms & tilt components
• Differentials
• Final drives
• Brake components
• Transmission parts

As always: Send us the serial number or a photo and we’ll help match the correct part.