96 850 Non Turbo Potential Issues?

tourspin69 · Post by **tourspin69** » 28 Jun 2014, 19:30

New to the board. Just picked up a sweet...Florida 850 non turbo with only 74K. I want to keep this car for sometime. In fact, it will be my 15 year olds first car. I would appreciate any input on things to look for..keep up with etc.. I'm a weekend warrior DIY guy. I do have my limits though!

Post by **rspi** » 28 Jun 2014, 20:06

tourspin69 · Post by **tourspin69** » 28 Jun 2014, 20:26

Thanks. Again only 74K....unfortunately no record of Timing belt change. However, here are some pictures...thoughts?

Post by **abscate** » 29 Jun 2014, 05:47

Timing belts get replaced on both time and miles, so you should put this on the to do list. It sucks when they break, as in 2000 USd of head repair, so you have to divide your risk aversion factor by your karmic score to achieve your timing belt replacement priority score. Use SI units please, these are European cars.

Don't forget to tell everyone the Tech Valley area is too crowded. I'm off exit 23.

Post by **JRL** » 29 Jun 2014, 06:37

Timing belt and tensionors MUST be done before you even drive it.
It's a time bomb waiting to explode at these years

Post by **rspi** » 29 Jun 2014, 07:43

I wouldn't even start the car before changing the timing belt (all parts). If you have to move the car have it towed.

tourspin69 · Post by **tourspin69** » 29 Jun 2014, 18:01

Thanks. I will have it replaced. Great just to start from scratch with this car. What's typical cost of timing belt/water pump at a private service shop? $800-1000

Post by **abscate** » 29 Jun 2014, 18:24

Probably 500-600 at Randall Volvo ( independent) in Renssalaer. Heartily recommended

Jedlacks · Post by **Jedlacks** » 29 Jun 2014, 18:43

I have enjoyed owning my 97 850 from new, and I have also bought all the tools needed to do basically everything on the car. The only thing I have not done is the transmission and an engine rebuild. If you are so inclined, try to get your elbows greasy. If is starts to have minors issues you could easily grow despondent handing over cash to the mechanics.

tourspin69 · Post by **tourspin69** » 30 Jun 2014, 07:02

Thanks for all of the info. This is my 7th Volvo. (740, 850, S70, V70, S40, XC 70). I specifically looked for an 850 because it was my favorite of them all. I used to just pay for service on those cars...over time I became a bit more brave after I replaced an alternator in the s40 by myself and saved about $500. I may even venture to replace the timing belt on my own.