1997 850 GLT wagon Throttle body & general question

reluctant_mechanic · Post by **reluctant_mechanic** » 09 Jan 2015, 07:54

I am considering buying another volvo wagon to replace the one I have which is leaking fluids from every orfice.

1. I would consider buying a 1998 V70 if the throttle body is similar to the 1997, and not the style mounted on the engine itself

2. What are the least troublesome years and models for 85os and v-70s? I have heard that 1999 ad newer are problematic, requiring dealership visits.

As a aside, I recently replaced the fuel pump on my 850 with an after market replacement; I realize this is not the best solution but I anticipated getting rid of the car. The pump required some fiddling to get it to fit and work, so I took pictures of the installation and could post them with a short narrative, if anyone is interested. Forgive me if this is incorrectly posted; feel free to alter it however you like. Thanks in advance

Post by **rspi** » 09 Jan 2015, 08:37

reluctant_mechanic wrote:I am considering buying another volvo wagon to replace the one I have which is leaking fluids from every orfice.

More torture on the horizon? lol

The '98 V70's do have the cable throttle. Just my opinion but I think people cry way to much about the ETM. To me a better reason to avoid the newer ones is because of the difficulty in replacing the timing belt, etc. due to the VVT.

The only year is that NOT problematic is the '92, that's when they were still in development. All jokes aside, a modestly maintained P80 car is a great car to own if you are in the market for a 18 year old vehicle. I have crossed the country about 10 times with mine in the past 8 months, towing trailers and all.

Sure, post your fuel pump success procedures.

Post by **dosbricks** » 09 Jan 2015, 13:16

'96 and up are OBD II which is desirable. So arguably the best years to own are the '96-'98.

Obviously I like the 850 wagons and the S70 sedans

Post by **kahl** » 10 Jan 2015, 08:59

Dealer visits really depend on the car's past maintenance history. We have both 98 and 2000 year V70 in the family. I see no real maintenance issues between the years. The ETM problems are easily solved with with used serviceable units. The exhaust VVT really is no big deal during TB changes, though you must have the rear cam locking tool.