No external antenna amplifier on the 850-SVC70s? What's that extra lead next to the antenna lead? (Mine's a wagon so there's no external power antenna.)

They're pretty picky about electrical returns here in the States. Actually it works fine not just on FM all the time but the low part of the AM spectrum is initially OK, too. Once the radio warms up reception really starts to get awful. I've had the connections checked by my favorite indy Volvo garage and also consulted with my radio-specialist engineer friend who used to design military radios. Everyone seems to agree it's "probably" the AM circitry failing in the radio.

ANd that it's not that common.

The remanufactured SC816 units are about $50 cheaper from the discount Volvo dealer than my local Volvo dealer, I figure the odds are about 4-1 that it's the radio, against probably $70-$100 more if I have my Official Volvo dealer do the full drill diagnosis on the unit. Maybe I'll just flip a coin! (The gambler in me says the odds favor taking the chance and buying the remanufactured unit.)

I have to do SOMETHING! I can live without listening to Rush Limbaugh but not the traffic reports!

Thanks!

-Samurai Jack