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I'm taking my 89 245 wagon from Florida to Vancouver via Texas and Utah. Got it in October, was told everything was ok on it by the mechanic/seller, and that he had changed all the belts, tuned it up, new fluids, etc. This is my first car since 1980 - lived in NYC, didn't need a car - but got a Volvo for the reliability, ease of repair, and size of the cargo area, and am taking it across the US. It runs pretty well, but because of the age and distance I plan on goingwith a pretty good load, I'm trying to make sure it's in as good of shape as possible.
I've done a few things myself like changing the spark plug wires (had new plugs), front brake pads (probably should also turn the rotors), thermostat, and just changed the coolant (nice little burn on the arm, lol). Had a shop install some overload coils springs to raise the rear end.
Have a few questions though since I'm not really an experienced car guy, though I'm learning. Have several people who've worked on cars themselves looking at it, but they're not Volvo guys, so I figured since I've learned everything I know about Volvo's here I'd come to you guys.
1. Have a small oil leak coming from just behind the timing belt case, maybe a valve cover leak? I peeled open the timing belt case and it looks pretty dry in there. I'm not getting any decrease in oil on the stick, and the oil is clean (changed about 1500 miles ago). First saw the oil around the head gasket in the front and a couple drops coming off the back, but on further look, it's definitely coming from behind the timing belt case, above the head gasket, and leaking down. Any ideas on how to easily diagnose where the leak is coming?
2. Air conditioning recharge. Can't seem to find the nipple or whatever it's called to recharge the air conditioning. Someone told me it was on the compressor, but I don't seem to be able to find it. Anyone have a picture of it on a similar year engine?
3. Anybody know a Volvo mechanic or enthusiast in the Sarasota, FL area that would mind taking a look at this for a little $$?
Thanks!
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