Hi all,
Just wanted to post an update to my latest project. Many thanks to all the posters on the site, to which I've admittedly been a lurker, for sharing their knowledge and experiences.

As some may recall, I purchased a '79 gray 264 from the local High School tech center in late June. Donated car, leaky water pump, all parts removed from top of engine and placed in various boxes (some of which not originally included with car!), nothing labeled. Like putting together a puzzle without a picture. Car has 72K on the odometer, full dealer service records with great maintenance history, fully loaded with all the bells and whistles, a/c conversion completed. I know, it still has the PRV V6 but everything else is in fantastic condition. Total price out the door = $100.

Got my 17 y.o. son involved in the recovery effort as it will be his car (maybe!?). We replaced all of the belts and hoses throughout the engine compartment, flushed the cooling system, flushed the tranny (thanks FAQs), cleaned the screen on the in-tank fuel pump, replaced the all filters and refreshed all fluids, replaced the water pump (run, don't walk from this one if it ever goes out), as well as detailing the car inside and out has left us with a new addition to our fleet. Between the use of the set of Mitchell manual CDs I have, a Chilton's manual, the internet, a local Volvo mech., and the vacuum diagram under the hood, we've been able to put it all back together and finally got it running yesterday. Wiring and vacuum diagrams have proven to be invaluable. Drove the car on some errands yesterday evening and to work today. Runs out terrific, though getting a new battery tonight as the old one isn't holding a charge. All together I've got a little over $500 into the car.

The best thing: My son is excited as it is the first time he has jumped into a project as involved as this one turned out to be and things turned out well. All of the tools he has been receiving over the years for his toolbag will actually see some use after he moves out. He loved the problem solving and getting his hands greasy. He admitted to me yesterday that he always wondered what I saw in doing my own work vs. paying a shop (though sometimes necessary). I think we have a budding Volvo nut. He is already looking at the IPD website and dreaming.

Thanks again for all the advice and shared knowledge. Now I have to find another one for him (a 242 or 244 with a B230?) so I can keep this one for myself. I'll try to attach pics later tonight. ---rick