I was driving earlier this month and my 240 wagon lost power and a knocking sound started coming from the engine - it also idled poorly and vibrated a lot. Oil and coolant were both fine. When I got it home (slowly), I determined that it wasn't firing on the piston nearest the firewall. When I stuck a rod into the sparkplug hole and cranked it over, I could tell that that piston wasn't moving up and down. I think that I either demolished a piston (how?) or the engine snapped a rod. This is surprising for an old Volvo, but I guess not too surprising since the previous owner didn't take great care of the car.

Where can I get a new engine for this car? I posted a classified ad here, but does anyone know of any other sources? What should I expect to pay for a new motor and installation? I'm hoping that this can be fixed for under $1500 or so. The car's otherwise in really good shape despite its 183k miles, and I've put a lot of work into it.

-b.

Check out the following website
www.car-part.com

It is a compilation of many, many salvage
yards arcoss the country and in your area
as well.

I found a great motor for my 1990 240 for
$300 - runs great. Most reputable salvage
yards should give you the mileage on the motor
and usually will make a 30-90 day guarantee on the motor.
I found that there are a lot of these motors around.

If the rest of the car is in good shape, then go for it.
--
1990 240DL - 185K, 1994 850 Wagon - 140K, 1989 Ranger 235K

for parts/repair, since I found what looks like a rust-free '93 with 150k and a rebuilt auto trans. for $1500 in PA (I went and looked at it today, and it needs the horn fixed, a couple of light bulbs, a power window switch, and a new driver's seat which can come out of my car, Carfax checks out fine). The owner says that he might actually take somewhat less since the car's been for sale for a few weeks - he hasn't advertised it, just slapped a sign on it and prayed.


-b.

Well, can't beat that. If it doesn't work out, I do have an 89 that I'm parting out, good engine. I could sell just the block as I may have plans for the head. 212K but hey, it runs great and it's cheap.
--
Rob Bareiss, New London CT ::: Roterande Fläkt Och Drivremmar!

There has got to be a pick and pull somewhere in NJ near you, in the local ones here in San Diego engines run < $200 complete. You probably have a very early '88, they went to the "K" engine somewhere in the early '88 production run. The "K" has stronger rods and larger bearings, look for one of these when you pull/order your replacement. Even buying one retail you should have no problem getting it fixed for under $1500.
Good luck.
--
Dave Shannon
Spring Valley, California
'67 1800s
'73 1800ES
'88-240
my pages

Sorry to hear about your engine.

Here's a couple of possibilities. These guys have been recommended by folks on the BB as good sources for used parts.

1. VolvoUsedParts.com (301) 367-2244 - Brian Leppin - Maryland?

2. erievovo.com (888) 865-8613 - N.Y.


Good Luck!
--
90 244DL 1/4 million miles - original engine/drivetrain :)