Fix mine or buy another?

vlv850 · Post by **vlv850** » 04 Dec 2007, 11:26

So if you've read my Seafoam Beware, you know of my dilemma:

I don't know if i should fix mine or buy another. Wife won't let me just buy a new S60R and have a car paymet, so....a little help.

Here's the details of fixing mine: 1994 850 NA 5 spd with 180K miles

New engine w/ 55K miles, labor, and fixing everything else that needs to be replaced while the engine is out. New timing belt, radiator(it's just time), clutch, motor mounts, all new hoses, etc. $3,500.

New to me volvo's:

97 850 T5, Black, 180K miles, maint. up to date with resent timing belt change. Few paint chips, interior clean. 3 yr warranty $3900.

98 S70 GLT, Dark Green, 102K miles, probably needs some maint. like timing belt, body and interior clean. $4200

At least if I fix mine, I know everything is practically new. If I buy a newer one, I don't really know of previous maintenance history that well. I could probably get a couple hundred $ back for parting mine though.

The devil you know, vs the devil you don't.

I'm in Phoenix, AZ so if anyone has an alternative, I'd be happy to hear it.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 04 Dec 2007, 15:05

I really can't vote on this thing before you REALLY finding out what went wrong with your '94 NA. I just don't buy the "cylinder is wet" argument. How about a second opinion before throwing in the towel on it?

vlv850 · Post by **vlv850** » 04 Dec 2007, 15:29

Asked my mechanic for more specifics. Post added to Seafoam Beware thread.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 04 Dec 2007, 16:12

I read it and am dumb founded. Although I have never done the seafoam treatment, it's just very strange that your engine did this. Did he actually open the engine up to look at the damage? I would still get a second opinion.

Post by **wheelsup** » 04 Dec 2007, 22:05

What is the S70's reliability record? Personally I'd go with the car with 80k less miles on it provided they are similar to the almost indestructible 850. I wouldn't fix yours if I was in the same situation. You could put some money into it now and something else major could blow. If you throw another grand into the S70 it'll run for another 50k-80k+ miles with hiccups most likely.

Post by **renns** » 05 Dec 2007, 06:05

Will you be doing the work yourself? If you are able, try buying a running car with other issues for low $$, and swap the engine into yours.

I bought a '93 850 sedan with 130k in nice running condition for next to nothing. The previous owner had random stalling problems, and refused to drive the car any further. I pull the drivetrain, swapped the 5-spd into my car, and sold off the good running engine to a local guy for $250. If you search the local classified diligently, you may find something similar in your area.

Have you got a second opinion on the engine in your car now? Seems quite odd, that sequence of events...

Necromancer · Post by **Necromancer** » 06 Dec 2007, 19:55

As much of a blast as the T-5 is (I have a 97 wagon) with a 180k vs the V70 for such a little difference in price, I'd go the V70 route.
This isn't that much more than the cost of fixing yours.
Unless of course you have some special attachment (don't we all

to yours.

vlv850 · Post by **vlv850** » 07 Dec 2007, 09:30

Thanks for the replies. My wife and I are attached to our car, and have decided to fix her. It's not a turbo, but at least I can shift my own gears. My car's name is Ginger by the way.

bobsnow100 · Post by **bobsnow100** » 07 Dec 2007, 13:16

If your doing yours make sure you install a new rear main seal since the transmission is out. I would consider installing a new water pump also.
I didn't see the seafoam post of want problems your having but are you sure you don't just need the cylinder head fixed. You might only have 1 or 2 bent valves which is cheaper than all this other work you want to do. I would do a compression test.

Fix mine or buy another?

New car or fix mine

Fix mine or buy another?