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In this case, it would be beneficial on your part to have the car inspected by another mechanic. Pay for the 1/2 hour or so of lift time needed to make an inspection and write up the findings. Maybe it'll be an hour. Either way, $$ well spent. If the car truly has issues, they'll turn up. As you surmise, the turbo is the big unknown in this car's history, and is probably the single most expensive part of the car. Definitely in the top-5. A good checkover from below is needed to identify oil leaks from the turbo lines or oil filter housing, both common trouble spots, as well as a good visual check of the special water hoses. This will also let you know about regular RWD Volvo problems, like a bad tailshaft seal, center bearing, pinion seal, exhaust leaks, rear main seal, suspension bushings, et cetera....
The turbos are all watercooled in 1991, and it will be a Mitsubishi turbo, the better of the two types Volvo used (easier replacement too!)
Key things to remember are that the turbo's cooling system works much harder, and therefore the radiator must be perfect, and likewise the water pump and heater control valve. Any leaks *MUST* be addressed immediately - you risk head gasket damage if the car overheats. Also, the large air intake hoses need close inspection. If the turbo does leak oil, and they all do eventually, oil attacks the hoses and rots the rubber. Then you've got a vacuum leak and all sorts of running problems, including copious amounts of black smoke. Make sure this is part of the inspection. Finally, the front rotors on all 740's are subject to warping. Assuming the car exhibits shakes when braking from speed, use that as a bargaining chip for price- new rotors list at $97 from Volvo each, and maybe 1/2 that through mail order. Not acceptable to turn the rotors- they are thin enough when new.
So make some notes, have a shop that services Volvos check it out, get the best deal, and add it to the collection. Good luck!
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Rob Bareiss, New London CT ::: 86 244DL, 87 244DL, 88 744GLE, 91 244: 808K total
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