James,

Thank you for your reply. I came across an email from a friend who owns an old car (not a Volvo) but he is a "Car Guy". At that time I was corresponding about the possibility that my over 850 wagon, a silver 1996 850 GLT wagon with at the time 325,000 miles, (today it is at 365,000 miles) might require a rebuilt engine or a used one. Fortunately, the underlying problem was address that required neither remedy. But my friend said that I suffered from "OCD", just like he did, which didn't stand for "Obsessive Compulsive Disorder" but instead "Old Car Disorder" which basically means, you own a car for so long, that you just can bring yourself to part with it, and you begin to invest money to "preserve it" that just doesn't make sense. I may be at that stage now. James, to my knowledge the body of the car is is very good shape, and it presents well. People are shocked when they learn it has 430,000 miles on it and it looks so good. Prior to the burnt valve, I was (an still am) in love with this car. I am tempering that emotion. I hope I make the right decision in what I decide to do with this car. I do have a lot of emotional attachment to it, but I am not immortal, and neither is it. With your comments and advice and that of others who have responded, I think I will make the right decision in the end. Happy New Year to all who have responded to my query.

Hugh





H