V70 XC oil pressure drop - update

[saltydog]

Further to my previous post about my 2001 cross country oil problems, here's a heads up. the car, now with 70K on it, was suffering from intermitant oil pressure problems that were inconsistant. Manual pressure check showed 32 psi cold dropping to 10 psi at operating temp that 'freaked out' the gauge when reved to 2500rpm-new oil pump installed-old pump had a lot of play & problem is better, but still exists after spending a total so far of $2400.00 CDN. One thing that was discovered during all this was that even though this vehicle was dealer serviced prior to my ownership (at 26,000 mi) the PCV box had never been cleaned or replaced, which has obviously contributed to major sludge issues. This proceedure is apparently not so simple, requiring a couple of hours labour & it seems that service people in an effort to avoid peoples anger over expensive oil changes, don't recommend it be done - ask & do it - I am sooo disappointed with this car. I've owned 2,7 & 8 series turbo wagons, & this one has been so un-volvo like, that I find myself doubting the brand. This car is now relagated to grocery & errand duty as I'm now full time in the wife's Honda - which at a fraction of the cost, never skips a beat. I know what you all will say to that, but 'replace the engine' was all I got from dealers & how many of us are Warren Buffet to drop 10 grand into a 50 grand car? MY POINT? follow through with your tech & bite the bullet on the 'PROPER' service. The alternative is apparently much costlier.