I'm brand new to the list, & a friend has given me a '89 740GLE with a "blown" engine - whatever that means. I'm trying to get details of what the shop he took it to diagnosed the problem as. They're going to dig out their diagnosis (it's been a few months back that this happened, just now getting time to work on it) and let me know their diagnosis, although that's no guarantee they diagnosed it correctly - the guy seemed to think it was just a blown head gasket, though my friend had thought the engine would have to be rebuilt, but he's not a car guy, maybe he didn't understand them.

All in all, it only has 115k miles, great condition, auto trans, should be a good first car for my son who's just starting driving - he's mildly physically handicapped, so a car that's extra safe is a real plus.

I'm just getting over getting divorced, so no extra money to pay someone to fix it, plus I prefer to do something myself if I can, I like to do things right.

Is there anyone in the Houston area who has experience with this engine I could ply with $$ or the libation of their choice to share their help if it means I have to rebuild the engine? I'm competent with suspension, brakes & such, and always do that sort of work on my own cars, but haven't rebuilt an engine before. A head gasket itself shouldn't be a problem, but I've looked at the Chilton's manual for the car (I can't find a Robert Bently manual for it - I guess there isn't one :( ) and the cam seals sound a bit scary.

If I need machine work, is it worth seeking out a machine shop with Volvo experience? Any recommendations for one in Houston?

I've read the "Buying a Used GLE with B234F" article and am digging through all the many very informative posts in the repair FAQ. I'm planning on replacing the oil pump pulley bolt, the cam timing belt and the balance belt (hoping I have the auto tensioner), the typical water pump and other items that fall into the "might as well do it while I'm in there" - anyone have a consolidated list of what to watch for on this engine so I don't miss anything?

Thanks in advance!

Barrett