1996 850 Turbo Multiple Problems

[RCoryCollins]

Hi,
I have multiple problems with my 96 850 Turbo Wagon. Most recently, the a/c compressor locked up and burned the belt off. It also seems to need a PCV system kit, as it emits a noxious smoke from the tailpipe, especially when idling for a period. Now the radiator has started to leak around the area where the tank is bonded to the radiator vanes section. And, my mechanic says it probably time to change the timing belt (every 60k miles he said)...Whew....
In your opinions, how much would all of this cost to get repaired at a shop? Has anyone ever had the engine rebuilt on a 850 turbo? Should I just junk this one and look for another?... I am pretty stressed right now, and may think of solutions when I cool off a bit. But thought I would check with you guys for some advice.

Cory

[Ozark Lee]

Changing out the engine or rebuilding the existing engine is pretty extreme for your list of problems.

The AC compressor can either be changed (chances are it is the clutch bearing) or, for the time being, you can put on a shorter belt and bypass the compressor completely until you can get time to repair it. The Serpentine belt you need is a Gates K060495.

The PCV servicing really isn't that big of a deal, there is plenty of instruction in the major repairs tab at the top of the page and in the repair database.

The radiator will need to be changed, you can't repair the plastic tank radiators. I don't really know how much it costs to get one changed but I have had OK luck with some $125.00 radiators from a local radiator shop. You will need a turbo radiator that has the oil cooler and the transmission cooler built into it.

The timing belt interval is 70,000 miles, not 60,000, but I always error on the side of caution.

Shop rates are all over the place depending on where you live and where you go. A dealership will be the most expensive but they will get it done right. An independent shop is typically your best value but they need to have some experience with Volvo.

If you need to rely on a shop to fix stuff like the serpentine belt and the PCV then you really need to get another car. The 850s are great but shop repairs will eat you alive.

...Lee

[Anarchist]

Hey Cory,
Welcome! With older cars the problems will come and go. Many of the issues you are looking at with your 850 can be repaired with a little understanding and basic tools - especially with the aid of this site and it's members!
Have a look at some of the tutorials and see whether you are up for it. Otherwise seek the advice of an independent Volvo repair shop in your area.
Fix the PCV first and the radiator. The serp belt is awkward but DIY-able. The AC might just be a junkyard repair and regas. Timing belt is worth changing but an extra few miles shouldn't be a deal breaker.

Good luck!

[rspi]

Hi Cory, welcome to the site.

If you don't fix things yourself sell it cheap to a Volvo enthusiast that will restore it. Those are great cars but do need a decent DIY owner.

At this point the needed maintenance and repairs exceed the value so $300 would be a fair price.