May 28, 2004
Hi Glenn,
Looking for information about 1800's, I found your fabulous homepage. Thanks for putting all this valuable information on the web! I am currently looking for an 1800 and have two offers. One from Don Thibault for a '68 model which seems to be in ok shape for $9,500.
The other one is in New Mexico for $12,000 and seems to be completely overhauled. What makes me a little bit nervous is this: "Original B-18 engine bored out to B-20 sized pistons with new OEM pistons." According to the seller, he has worked on 1800's over the past 25 years and did tuning work before. However, the pistons are not balanced yet, and he would offer that for another $1000. Can you tell me how risky this is, and what I would have to take care of before buying? Also is there something I would have to take care of when running on a newly overhauled and tuned engine? Thanks so much for your help in advance!
Andre
Hello, Andre - I have heard good and bad things about the B-18 to B-20 conversion. I have done this conversion myself, and don't think I would do it again. I have about 29,000 miles on the engine now, and the main problems I've encountered are the tendency of the engine to run on after the ignition is turned off, and vibration while running. I have learned to cope with these things, but I think it would be better to do a mild overbore, .010 or .020". Others have suggested I should use a B-20 cylinder head and exhaust system. I think these are good suggestions, but too much trouble and added expense at this time.
I balanced the pistons myself with a triple-beam balance. Most shops will balance the pistons as well as the crankshaft and flywheel for less than $200. Unless you mis-typed the figure above, I would look for a car from a more reasonable seller. I have dealt with Don Thibault, and found him trustworthy, but old Volvos are a business for him. You might get a better price from a private seller. It is difficult to find a balance between risk and price. (I'm assuming you will have the car shipped to you in Germany.)
If you buy a car with a newly rebuilt engine, drive it carefully for the first 1,000 miles. Keep the engine rpms below 4,000 and don't race it. Be aware that a fresh engine may overheat when the car is not moving. Stay out of stop-and-go traffic. Check the oil and coolant levels every day and check for leaks, loose bolts and general condition of all outside engine parts once a week. I would change the oil at 1,000 miles and inspect it for signs of coolant contamination. After the first 1,000 miles, you may relax a little and begin a weekly inspection or whatever you feel comfortable with. -Glenn.