2000 XC70 concerns about replacing missing driveshaft

flagracer · Post by **flagracer** » 18 Dec 2013, 19:38

hey folks

The neighbor bought a non-running 2000 XC70 2.4 turbo that supposedly just needed a water pump. The timing belt had actually broken and smashed 6 valves. So now that I replaced the head and have it running great (knock wood) I discovered the reason the AWD was not engaging was that the drive shaft is actually missing. I assume a previous owner removed it because of a bad hanger bearing or u-joint. The viscous coupler is still there and turns with what seems to be an appropriate amount of resistance, like a thick oil. The question is, since my neighbor really wanted this car because of AWD (for long snowy MN winters), is there any option of getting a used shaft where it's not going to vibrate? The bolts are all missing, so if a used one was found and the bolts were sorted for location, would they bolt right on or is it going to be a crap shoot because of a different mount? (meaning, is the balancing bolt specific to the drive shaft or to the car it is mounted to?) I expect we'll probably be able to aquire a shaft with no bolts and can get bolts from Volvo. If that is the case how does anyone ever determine balance? My experience over the years replacing regular RWD shafts on american cars is that there's a good chance of having vibration if we go that route, or am I wrong? Any suggestions are appreciated.
thx

Post by **JRL** » 18 Dec 2013, 21:08

Just buy a rebuild shaft for $425 or so
www.coloradodriveshaft.com

instarx · Post by **instarx** » 19 Dec 2013, 01:21

Actually, call Colorado Driveshaft and talk to them about your situation - they are very helpful. They pre-balance their replacement shafts.

I recently removed my driveshaft because of a bad universal joint and all the bolts were the same size - there were no balancing bolts.

Post by **850 LPT** » 19 Dec 2013, 06:10

The hardware you need to install the shaft is right on the Colorado Driveshaft website. They are all standard metric screws that you can buy at a hardware store.

They are great to deal with, super helpful and knowledgeable. I just bought one for $410 incl. shipping and return shipping for the old one. They do charge $100 for a core though which you don't have.

sawtooth4x4 · Post by **sawtooth4x4** » 19 Dec 2013, 06:27

I have a very good used driveshaft for a 2000 XC70.

I was going to use it, but my transmission took a dump and i'm parting the car out.

$150 plus shipping. I paid $250 for it. it only had 80K on it when i purchased it. i've never used it.

I have all the bolts to install it as well.

flagracer · Post by **flagracer** » 19 Dec 2013, 06:34

thanks men, let me talk to them today and see what they would like to do.

instarx · Post by **instarx** » 19 Dec 2013, 16:45

Just a note of warning for when you do get a driveshaft installed. Your AWD Volvo needs all four tires to be the same diameter. It is critical. Even running worn tires on the front and unworn ones on the rear can be enough to damage the viscous clutch. So identical tires and frequent rotation are needed to keep the AWD functioning.