1996 850 Wagon Coolant Drain and Fill - Recovery Tank?

PeteB · Post by **PeteB** » 23 Nov 2014, 10:45

We are planning to do a drain and fill on my son's 850 Wagon and we recently
noticed very slight coolant seepage around the hose connecting to the recovery
tank. Pulled off the hose and found that something was obstructing the hole
in the fitting on the tank. Is this normal or should it be possible to shove a
nail in there with no obstruction?
I'm a bit worried that someone might have mixed coolant types, should we
flush the system and what is a good/safe product if so?
It also takes a long time to warm up, maybe twice as long as the newer cars, is
this normal? It does not overheat or otherwise have any cooling problems.
Runs fine.
I did read this blog but I'd rather just do a drain and fill if that's good enough:
http://volvo850wagon.wordpress.com/cate ... ti-freeze/

I'm planning to use Zerex G05 HOAT coolant.

Also, how do you know how much is in the block if the passage to the recovery
tank is blocked and there is no cap on the block or radiator?

Post by **tryingbe** » 23 Nov 2014, 10:56

Change the thermostat while you're at it.

I usually just flush the system with distilled water.

PeteB · Post by **PeteB** » 23 Nov 2014, 13:24

Thanks, do you know if the inlet to the recovery tank has a complex passage way
or should it just be a straight unobstructed hole?

PeteB · Post by **PeteB** » 24 Nov 2014, 07:59

PeteB wrote:Thanks, do you know if the inlet to the recovery tank has a complex passage way
or should it just be a straight unobstructed hole?

Anyone? We are going to drill it out but I don't want to ruin it.

Post by **cn90** » 24 Nov 2014, 09:04

The Volvo reservoir lasts about 10y/120K, after that the bottom connection cracks and maybe inside the hose.

For a critical part like this, get new reservoir from Volvo for $45. Unless you want to do the head gasket job.

Time to replace the short hose behind the engine block, and for those with Turbo, the infamous turbo hose that, if burst, will cause massive coolant loss.

PeteB · Post by **PeteB** » 26 Nov 2014, 10:20

cn90 wrote:The Volvo reservoir lasts about 10y/120K, after that the bottom connection cracks and maybe inside the hose.

For a critical part like this, get new reservoir from Volvo for $45. Unless you want to do the head gasket job.

Time to replace the short hose behind the engine block, and for those with Turbo, the infamous turbo hose that, if burst, will cause massive coolant loss.

Thanks, the tank is probably cracked and that it a good plan.
I'm not that familiar with these cars, what is the short hose behind the block?
Found this but I don't see a rear hoses except for the heater core hoses.
Forgot the link, here it is: http://www.tracystruesoaps.com/tutorial ... ystem.html
Anyone?

Any issues with Zerex G05 HOAT coolant?

Post by **cn90** » 26 Nov 2014, 11:51

Pete,

If you have turbo, then replace the turbo hose.
If not, then the short hose behind the engine block. See thread below.

I have been using Prestone green for 25 years, zero problems with my BMW, Honda and Volvos etc.

https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... hp?t=55306

PeteB · Post by **PeteB** » 26 Nov 2014, 12:43

Local dealer wants $74 for the tank, going to get it at FCP Euro
and probably the Meyle brand for $33, hope it lasts.

Post by **mecheng** » 26 Nov 2014, 14:28

The dealer should give you a discount. I get 13% off anything over $30; so I got the volvo one because
My supplier couldn't get the Meyle which may or may not be good, and with shipping it didn't make sense. The Volvo one looks very well made,
It looks so nice when it's new. It was from Sweden. Let us know how the Meyle is if you buy it

Post by **cn90** » 26 Nov 2014, 15:01

Stick to Volvo OEM!!! Look around, many Volvo dealer sells this for $50 online.
PN 9141095.

Below is a genuine Volvo reservoir $55, free shipping to your house:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/VOLVO-9141095-G ... 1206534033

PS: Show them the online thingy, you will be surprised they will likely price-match it.