1997 850 Spark plugs & wires

davolvo · Post by **davolvo** » 19 Mar 2014, 13:24

Hi, I know that OEM is always recommended when replacing parts but what would be the next best thing? Would BOSCH be acceptable? Thanks.

Post by **tryingbe** » 19 Mar 2014, 13:29

I use Denso copper plugs. The main thing is not to use platinum plugs, especially if it is turbo engine.

Post by **matthew1** » 19 Mar 2014, 13:39

Bougiecord is OEM for wires. So Volvo "blue box" or Bougiecord. Bosch is fine, although if the difference is less than say $10, I'd go with Bougies. This is that class of parts that are a little temperamental on our 850s.

Spark plugs are a lot temperamental. Like Tryingbe said, avoid platinums.

Post by **rspi** » 19 Mar 2014, 19:04

I believe the NA cars uses platinum plugs.

http://www.ipdusa.com/prodtype.asp?CAT_ ... orycrumbs=

Post by **matthew1** » 19 Mar 2014, 20:26

Oh goodness I didn't see she had a base until you pointed it out.

I saw '97 850 and my mind filled in "turbo" because I have a '97 turbo.

Post by **rspi** » 19 Mar 2014, 21:22

LOL, I only knew because she has been posting for a few months now.

Post by **hausmeister** » 21 Mar 2014, 05:23

I would get the Volvo Plugs, I have had Bosch, NGK and the best are the originals.
If I am not mistaken the oem NA plugs are Champion.

davolvo · Post by **davolvo** » 21 Mar 2014, 06:41

Some of the garages here are asking $70 per spark plug. I may be a woman but I do my homework and that is outrageous! I appreciate your input. I am hoping at 113,000 miles this will be a ten year plus car and I want to treat it right. At this mileage, should I be focusing on the flame trap, O2 sensors and such as well? I don't know if those have been done yet.

davolvo · Post by **davolvo** » 21 Mar 2014, 06:43

rspi wrote:LOL, I only knew because she has been posting for a few months now.

Yes, yes I have...and you have all been great in helping me to maintain my car in the best way possible. You are all great!

Post by **erikv11** » 21 Mar 2014, 08:01

Flame trap: this is a small plastic piece inside of the PCV system plumbing. I always recommend that this piece be thrown away. Just take it out and throw it in the trash. The rest of the PCV I would service if the car fails the "glove test" or if the existing PCV hoses appear to be brittle. At 110k the PCV is probably due for service but it can possibly go a long time without it. PCV doesn't fail catastrophically, pay attention to it and get to it when the job is needed.

Oxygen sensors: If you think they are original, then I would replace the front one. Bosch 15097 buy it from Amazon. Leave the rear one alone forever unless it throws a code.

Ignition parts: New Bougicord wires (I didn't look it up but like $70 online vendors) and Volvo plugs (like $35 from the Volvo dealer or from eBay) will go a long, long way. New Bosch cap and rotor (eBay will be the cheapest or buy them where you get the wires. I'd do it now if the wires are original (check the date code on the wires). You can buy Bosch copper plugs they are MUCH cheaper (like $2 each) but you have to change them more often.

The other thing that starts failing at/beyond 110k is front suspension parts. Again, keep an eye out for them, listen for clunks and pops and creaks, and loose handling and/or uneven tire wear. You can sensibly replace the struts whenever as a preventive measure but the rest I would wait for symptoms or you will end up spending a lot of money fast.

110k is kind of a critical point in the life of these cars. Because you see them down the road at 150k either where a lot of cheap aftermarket parts started going in at 110k, and they run like crap and are falling apart, or maintenance was done well and they run like a dream. With a creaky dash.