AboutRay Niemi Expertise ASE Master Rated. Ask any questions about Volvo models up to 2000. Runnability, starting and charging system, diagnostic codes, brakes, front end, where to get certain parts. Should I buy this Volvo or not? I will try to answer your question and give you the knowlege to make the best decision in your case.
Experience I started working on Volvo's in 1978 at the dealer and attended all the schools and achieved a Master rating. Since 1999 I have worked at independent shops and now own my own shop.
Organizations Alldata on line repair manuals. IATN network of techs.
ASE rating of Master.
Question A friend recently dropped off a 1995 Volvo 850. he said he was in to it cheap (free) and wondered if it was fixable. among its shortcomings were a missing bushing in the upper motor mount and leaking oil burning off on the exhaust. at this point only the plastic cover over the plugs has been removed and puddles of oil were discovered beneath it. can't see a path other than the oil cap that would lead the oil to this location. leaks all appear to be coming from the top of motor. I'm pretty sure the problem will not go away by replacing an oil cap which i guess leads to my question about the cam cover and the related seals that can be replaced if it is removed. what kind of job is that and can you lead me to a site that would show an exploded view of this area of the motor?
Answer John,
Yes the oil cap has big leakage problems. The front engine seals can also be replaced. That job however requires some special tools to hold the cams and also a hold down for the top cover as the bolts are pulled off. Shops may charge about 8 hours to do the work.
Some chain auto parts stores have the ability to provide procedures to do certain repairs. You can try to contact All-Data as they have repair manuals on line for shops. I do not know of any web site that would have that information.
