I just purchased a used '96 850 GLT 5-spd, w/102K miles on the odo. Very nice auto, but it needs a new cat, upstream O2 sensor and now a new cluctch for the a/c compressor (dlr recommends replacein entire compressor). I read through your posts and have found some valuable info. I'll be trying out some of the tips here when I get home this afternoon. But here is what I am faced with so far...Catalytic Converter:
$800-Volvo OEM, $300-third party direct fit, $180+tax-universal cat from Midas (inc labor but requires welding in place of OEM)
In your experiences, what would you recommend? $180 is very appealing but worried about "Frankestien" cat! $300 is a bit easier to swallow, but still can't stop thinking about the $180 deal!
O2 Sensor:
$200-Volvo OEM, $100-third party, $50-tip on this site.
Again, $50 gets me a "Frankestien" solution.
A/C Compressor:
$700-Volvo OEM, $275-third party
Keeping in mind the labor costs associated with each choice (Volvo's charges or my own sweat-and-blood)!
Again, this is such a nice car. The previous owner (one-owner vehicle) had ALL scheduled maintenance performed, by the dealer at that! I hate to do a "half-assed" (pardon my French) job on this car now!
Any (helpful) suggestions?
Thnx!
Mac
