Rusty Dipstick

digger · Post by **digger** » 10 May 2007, 10:32

I recently got a '94 850 turbo (100K miles) and it has an unusual problem. The dipstick is rusty. Not just a little bit but a lot rusty. I suspect the tube is rusty too because when I put the dipstick in the tube it has a rough scraping feel. I don't think I have ever seen this before. I have a '51 chevy pickup (all original) and it does not have this problem. The car runs pretty good and I think has had decent care in the past. Has anybody else seen this? Is it a symptom of a bigger problem? I plan to replace these parts but I'm just wondering if it is pointing to another problem.

Post by **kelvin6** » 10 May 2007, 10:55

I've never heard of this problem either. Also, when you replace the tube and stick, be aware that Volvo has two versions of this dipstick and tube. If you take it to the dealer, be sure to take out the dipstick and show them it, so they can get the right dipstick.

I believe there were two versions, one with a red handle and a orange handle. The orange handle was started in some 1995 models.

Post by **luketrash** » 10 May 2007, 14:06

It's usually a sign that the previous owner used the car for several short trips in which the moisture in the crankcase would steam up, but never get hot enough to evaporate and burn off.

That or just a really moist environment. In March, when the snow melts here, everything in my garage has condensation on it for about 3 weeks straight.

Moisture in the crankcase is normal though it typically burns off on drives longer than 10 minutes.

digger · Post by **digger** » 10 May 2007, 14:48

That makes sense. The car is originally from the Virginia area (a little more humid than Kansas) and the first owner put very few miles on it. So, I expect you are right. Guess I'll fix it and not worry about it.