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Preacher
August 27th, 2005, 21:47
I am looking at purchasing a 1995 Volvo WIA single axle with a 415HP Volvo engine mated to a 13 speed with a .283 (or .28something) rear-end. The truck has 770,000 miles on it. It also has a 54" sleeper. Does anybody know enough about Volvo engines to give me an opinion on their durability and longevity? I went and asked the service manager at the local Volvo/Peterbuilt dealer and he said they had very little trouble with them, especially compared the newer Volvo engines with all the electronics. He also said they get great fuel mileage, which I've heard before. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Capt._Chaos
August 27th, 2005, 21:55
VOLVO engine? NO WAY!

Those engines have had more than their share of problems since their introduction to class 8 trucks.

Besides, they're rather difficult to get parts for, and very few mechanics know anything about them. These factors alone can contribute to a lot of down time in the long run.

The Volvo tractor itself is good, but I strongly advise against one with a Volvo engine. Take a look at how much cheaper the trucks with Volvo engines are than similar ones with other engines...... there's a reason for it, as nobody wants to buy them.

Good Luck!
Preacher
August 27th, 2005, 22:21
Capt., you're the first person I've heard anything negative from. Thanks for the feedback.
dljtruck
August 28th, 2005, 17:31
Cap. is correct. had a freind ran one..traded it ASAP. My experince is to stick with the 3 that have proven themselves(partial to cummins :cool: )
Preacher
August 28th, 2005, 21:31
I've been doing a little web searching and did find out that the VED12 engines from 1993 to 1999 had some problems with #1 & #6 cylinders due to possible lubrication issues. I also read that this was only a problem on VED12's operated under hard usage. They also said that changing oil more frequently and using additives can prevent early cylinder failure. .
joerockhead
August 28th, 2005, 21:47
As Capt. Chaos said finding a tech with Volvo engine experience will be difficult on a good day. There is a reason dealers discount the Volvo powered trucks as much as they do.
Preacher
August 28th, 2005, 22:00
The truck I'm looking at isn't particularly discounted. They are asking $9250 for a 1995 single axle with 770,000 miles on it. It is very clean however with virgin rubber and larger sleeper (54" mid-roof). Personally I think it should be priced around $7500, but I've had a hard time locating a decent older single axle for under $10k.