The radiator on my 1989 240 has a small leak somewhere near the top, driver's side so I am planning to replace it. Should I go with OE from my local Volvo dealer or is there a better, similar priced one out there? Is there anything else I should replace at the same time?

I was thinking about these hoses. The old ones feel pretty squishy:
http://www.hiracing.net/silicone-radiator-hose-kit-for-volvo-240series-7993-p-46.html

The thermostat was replaced 2 years ago. Should I replace it again while I have stuff apart? Anything else I should think about replacing?

My A/C hasn't worked in who knows how long. I think replacing any of the A/C parts is useless and would cost me too much. Does anyone think it is worth it either to replace any of these parts or worth it to remove them? How many pounds are the A/C parts and how much would they save on mileage? I could go to a shop and get an A/C inspection to find out where the leaks are and what needs to be replaced.

If you live in a warm area of the country, I recommend this one.

http://www.ipdusa.com/products/7801/1378590-heavy-duty-3-row-radiator

It is pricey, but along with a tropical fan, cured my 1988 244GL of high temps when using AC in stop and go traffic in Florida.

The hoses are suishier then many other cars. I still have my original hoses on my '89. I still have original hoses on my '85 Chevy too.
I would not do the Pump until it starts to weep. I did mine only because it had 250K miles on it and there was moisture from the upper 'mushroom' at the Head.
Buying one and putting it on the shelf might be smart. If it does go bad, you can fix it in 2 hours instead of waiting days for the Parts guy.
The original radiator should have Plastic tanks on the sides Just like many of the Aftermarket units.
Don't muscle the heck out of the Hoses when putting them on the new radiator nipples. These Plastic tanks are not as robust as old school Brass.


--
'75 Jeep CJ5 345Hp ChevyPwrd, two motorcycles, '85 Pickup: The '89 Volvo is the newest vehicle I own. it wasn't Volvos safety , it was Longevity that sold me http://home.lyse.net/brox/TonyPage4.html http://cleanflametrap.com/tony/

Pretty sure FCPgroton, rockauto to name a few would have them cheaper than dealer. Heater core hoses, heater control valve. Thermos are cheap.
--
Post Back. That's whats makes this forum work.

Thanks. I will add the heater control valve... sounds like leaks can happen there as well. Any issues with the new plastic one versus the original brass one?

Prices look much better on those sites but I am hesitant on getting a radiator there. If I get a bad radiator I have to ship it back. I might check out the local stores.

How about the water pump? Is it easily replaced in this car?

IMO - The OEM radiators are the best and will last the longest. Blackstone is the brand name. However, I'm not sure if these are still available. If you're lucky you might be able to find it in the aftermarket. Some aftermarket dealer was selling them a few years ago. Nissens or Behr are probably good alternate choices. I've read here about some problems with Nissen's.

FYI - My original radiator was still going at 300k when I sold my 1990.

I wouldn't do the water pump unless it's old or something is wrong with it. They are usually good for over 100k. Do it the next time you do a timing belt instead since you'll be in there anyway.

Had my original 1966 radiator boiled out with a few small repairs made for less than 100 dollars by a local shop.
Water pumps are about 60.00 and installing one is a rite of passage. When you squish the hoses near their ends do you see hairline cracks?
AC stuff seems to sell well on eBay.
Good luck.

Yeah, I prefer the OEM, equivalent, or better for a radiator.

Agreed if the water pump is a water pump + timing belt repair I will certainly wait until it is due.

I haven't looked for cracks in the hoses. But they are noticeably squishier (or maybe just thinner rubber?) than hoses on other cars I have worked on. I am assuming they are original and 22 years old but no way for me to tell. The car has 148,000 miles on it.

The water pump and the timing belt can be done separately there is no need to do them together.

If the water pump is old you might consider replacing it now.

If you want to go crazy replace the water pump timing belt & tensioner, front engine seals, accessory belts, heater hoses, radiator hoses and thermostat. This will get everything external to the engine replaced at the same time.
Dan