The timing belt on a 1995 850 needs to be replaced every 70,000 miles.

The job is fairly involved and exposes the water pump in the process (correct?).

How long do Volvo water pumps last? My experience with most cars is that water pumps last less than 100,000 miles.

If this is also the case with Volvos, seems like the water pump should be replaced as "a matter of course" when replacing the timing belt.

Of course- assuming you plan on keeping the car....

Any thoughts on this matter?

If it's not leaking, don't replace it. Since the "white engines" came out in '92, I've only replaced a few of those water pumps.

Save your money.

John O- my 855 is looking at it's third timing belt any day now (210,000 miles) would you still not change the water pump(it's the original)? I think I will have mine done even though there is no sign of imminent failure. They cant last forever....can they?

I am still trying to decide wether or not to tackle the whole job myself. I have a good workspace, decent mechanical experience (many water pumps on 4-cyl volvos) and do not rely on the car as a daily driver anymore.

Is it as aggravating a procedure as it looks judging from the confined space?

thanks,

claude

Claude,

I you haven't already- check out Bay 13. They recently posted detailed illustrated directions on replacing the T belt.

BTW- with over 210,000 miles it would be a np brainer for me.

Replace the water pump.

Sure beats being stranded with an overheated car.

Carparts.com has brand new (not remanuf) one for I believe $68 or so.

The odds of the water pump going bad may be low. However, if it does go you could be in for a lot of trouble. If you have an interference motor and your timing belt goes, you are looking at thousands of dollars. A seized water pump can break the timing belt. Also, there are two tensioners that should be replaced at the same time (for the same reason). Make sure you torque to spec.

My advice; an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Especially if the cure involves having to go to the dealer!

frank