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Hi Doctorzeus:
I have 1983 760TD with 200K and still going strong. The key is finding one with good compression and maintenence. And keeping it that way.
These engines have some shortcomings, like 988 said. They are best run on synthetic oil, like mobil1 5W-30. Unfortunately Volvo's oil change recommendation of 7K miles on Dino Oil was ridiculous. And many of them did not survive. The ones that did were either rebuilt or maintained like a diesel with 3K oil changes and proper driving habits. They need to be warmed up before driven hard.
If you are considering it:
Make sure it has good compression. If it doesn't, it will need a rebuilt. A rebuilt long block is still available for around $4,000. Not very cost effective! Compression on these need to be around 500 psi. to start in cold weather. Mine will start below 20 degrees F, without the block heater, on one compression stroke. They actually start faster than a Gasser, if the compression is up.
When you get it running and up to temperature. Open the breather cap and check for excessive blowby. A little is normal, but if it's pouring out, it's a sign of low compression. Walk away from it.
You will probably need to work on this yourself. That old grey haired gent is retired now with Arthritis. And his son never saw one of these. Volvo laughs at you when you mention this engine. But they were the ones that set the oil change frequency. And they want to sell cars. If you get a good one they are not hard to keep running with the Proper tools, Volvo Green Books and a little know how.
Speaking of proper tools. They are an absolute must! Be prepared to shell out around $500.00 for the tools and books. DO NOT! try to work on it without them. Ebay has many of them from time to time.
Check the front timing belt. If you don't have maintenence records. Change it IMMEDIATELY! If the front belt goes while you are driving it home, it will probably destroy the engine or do some major damage. If you take it to the shop for replacement. Make sure they have the proper tools to torque that front bolt to 300+ ft.lbs. NO AIR WRENCH TORQUEING HERE! Many of them have been destroyed by not following the proper procedures here.
These cars are wonderfully smooth on the highway. They love to cruise at 70-80 mph with no vibration, at around 30 mpg. They are surprisingly responsive for a diesel.
Good Luck
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86 740 B230FT Wagon, 83 760 GLE D24T, 54 Packard Pacific Hdtp
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