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Hi, I'm new to this site. My name is Dana and I recently purchased a 1985 740 GLE with 300,000 miles on her. I paid $700. I've always loved Volvo's, especially the older models, so this car was on the top of my list. I also know nothing about cars, let alone Volvos (which I'm finding out is a totally different breed) so I thought it would be a great learning experience, since I expected to have to do some repairs. Oh and I named her Black Betty.
So far, I've had the front brakes done, had new hoses all around put in, new vaccum seal, new front tires and new wheel bearings on both fronts sides. Oh, and a new timing belt as well, I've heard timing belts can be the end all of a Volvo if broken.
The mechanic who did my front brakes is not someone who works on Volvo's often. He was referred to me by my dad as a cheap way to get the brakes done fast. A few days ago, I heard a VERY loud "whirring" sound coming from the passenger side front. It got worse in an hour, so I decided to take it to my friend Justin, who offered to handle the car from now on. He found that the brake seals were awful and had caused some damage to the wheel bearings. (I have no idea what the lingo is so bear with me please...I don't even know if I am explaining this properly). Anyway, both bearings had to be replaced and Justin could not locate the proper brake seal so he had to make one.
The exhaust is in bad need of replacing as well, and I am trying to do some research on how much this should cost. Justin's shop doesn't do exhaust, so no deal there.
Also, there is some fading in the brake pedal, which could be the master cylinder or the back breaks which also need replacing.
But...there are a few problems that I haven't a clue as to how to fix.
1) On two occasions, when stopped, she started revving the engine to where I couldn't even hold the break down to keep her from moving. Then the car died. It was really scary. Any ideas on what this could be??
2) When I put it in drive, there is a very rough start at first. Then it smoothes out.
3) The brake light keeps coming on but goes off when the brake is lightly tapped. Granted, I know I need to get the back brakes re-done, but Justin said they're not so bad that I need to do it ASAP.
4) The sunroof is trashed. And I've heard it is a pain to replace.
The guy I bought her from works for a Swedish Auto Parts store. So any parts I need, I can just call him. The problem is, I don't know enough "Volvo People" to get an educated answer on some of these issues. Anyone have any input? (I was told to scrap the car in 6 months, and I don't want to). I have my choice of cars, but I want this one!
Thanks!
Dana
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