Head Gasket Repair

klojbg · Post by **klojbg** » 21 Aug 2011, 16:44

I have a 1995 850T 212,000 mi a 1999 V70 XC AWD 89,000 mi. Both with blown head gaskets. In the 35 years of Volvo ownership--sigh, oh well lets get on with the present. I am a 77 yr old retiree with health issues, and depndent on others to do many of the tasks I used to do. I can't afford to have the work done at a proper shop, so I am considering a Steel Seal solution to the leak problem. I would like to hear your hellpful inputs

ed7 · Post by **ed7** » 21 Aug 2011, 19:23

You've pretty much set the scene, let us know how it works. Most repairs by bottle are, at best, temporary. These guys have spent a lot on internet advertising and I, for one, am curious if the product is any good.
Please report back.
Ed

gilhuly · Post by **gilhuly** » 21 Aug 2011, 19:43

That stuff isn't going to help much for long. Look for somebody with the skills who will do it as a driveway job. Have you considered selling one of the cars? I'd fix them both and sell one.

SteveDavis58 · Post by **SteveDavis58** » 21 Aug 2011, 20:43

it will work. how long is the question. I've seen it last for 2 yrs. I did it last fall, it lasted all winter & this summer {minimal driving} & was still doin ok when I sold it 2 wks ago. Got me out of a bind. If ya do it, be SURE to flush system & fefill w/ proper coolant mixture. 91 740 w/ 276,000.
Steve

Post by **keepersboy** » 21 Aug 2011, 21:56

Are you sure about the head gasket. Many people asssume this to be the problem on these cars because they have oil in the coolant, and all they need is a new radaiator. The oil coolers are known for going out.

klojbg · Post by **klojbg** » 22 Aug 2011, 21:57

keepersboy wrote:Are you sure about the head gasket. Many people asssume this to be the problem on these cars because they have oil in the coolant, and all they need is a new radaiator. The oil coolers are known for going out.

Water leaking at the gasket so it is either the gasket, warped head or both, no water in oil.

klojbg · Post by **klojbg** » 22 Aug 2011, 22:03

gilhuly wrote:That stuff isn't going to help much for long. Look for somebody with the skills who will do it as a driveway job. Have you considered selling one of the cars? I'd fix them both and sell one.

Plan to use the 850 for spares, many parts interchangeable. If I don't quit having problems with these 5 cyl 20 valve, engines I may dump them both and stick with the 240.

Post by **Red-Arrow** » 22 Aug 2011, 22:07

Where about in East Texas are you? I live in South East Houston and I'm sure a member close by could put in a few hours to help remove the head so you can have it skimmed and then its just a case of putting it back together again. I'm leaving Houston this week and I'm selling all my stuff which is taking all my time right now.

klojbg · Post by **klojbg** » 25 Aug 2011, 01:22

Red-Arrow wrote:Where about in East Texas are you? I live in South East Houston and I'm sure a member close by could put in a few hours to help remove the head so you can have it skimmed and then its just a case of putting it back together again. I'm leaving Houston this week and I'm selling all my stuff which is taking all my time right now.

I live 35miles north of Tyler out in the country not many mechanics around.