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Cross Country Wagon


MakGT

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Just purchased a 98 XC wagon, I assume this is the same car as a regular GLT wagon except for different bodywork and suspension? What is so special about them? I see many dealers/private people sell these for much higher than the V70. Or is it a marketing rip off that people fell for? Any trouble spots to look for? I picked one up with 71K

by the way, can a Volvo remote from a 96 Turbo work on my 98 XC?

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yes it is awd, but so are the base and GLT wagons. Other than the extra 1 inch in height, and some extra options like mud flaps, wheels and other misc. stuff. WHat else makes it so much more? I dont get it

Uh, the '98 base and GLTs are *not* AWD unless you specifically select such a model. The vast majority are simpler (and much less troublesome) FWD models.

You got the '98 GLT engine (190HP?), an extra inch in ride height, a different grill, and, I'm sorry to say, potentially a very problematic car. Every dealer and service tech I've spoken to have told me to avoid the 1st-generation Cross Country/XC70/V70 XC like the plague.

What sort of research did you do on this model before buying?

-KB

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Uh, the '98 base and GLTs are *not* AWD unless you specifically select such a model. The vast majority are simpler (and much less troublesome) FWD models.

You got the '98 GLT engine (190HP?), an extra inch in ride height, a different grill, and, I'm sorry to say, potentially a very problematic car. Every dealer and service tech I've spoken to have told me to avoid the 1st-generation Cross Country/XC70/V70 XC like the plague.

What sort of research did you do on this model before buying?

-KB

There was a base AWD V70 with no turbo, GLT AWD V70 came into play in 99. Regardless, there is not much difference other than the things you mentioned I dont think . I dont know what techs you spoke to, but I dont think the XC is any different than the regular v70 awd other than the raised suspension mechanically. Most Europeans car are problematic, but I think it is a better choice than the Audi.

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I have had a XC for 3 months now. Although it is not an enourmous amount of time to have a car, so far, I am satisfied. I just got another little issue...the craking/creaking door hinge strap (common on S/V70). There are little issues like the creaking hub splines (which a little thread-glue-type-substance can fix and is common on 98-01 Volvo's from what I understand), and the dashboard having an issue with craking and making noises (a common S/V70 issue, and even some 850's), and the AWD being a bit too delicate as far as using differently worn tires ( :rolleyes: just rotate them often). There is the chance of the AWD angle /bevel gear taking a poop, and thats specific to MKI AWD Volvo cars, and the ETM issue which is now under extended factory warranty, and MAF sensors which is not uncommon to replace on these cars.

So, really, I think its just a regular V70, with a AWD that can be costly, but its awesome in the snow. If it drives well, no noises, and feel right, just keep it and keep up maintenence rigorously, especially when it is from a previous owner you do not know. The best way to solve problems is to cath them early and do it properly.

Good luck with it!

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Just purchased a 98 XC wagon, I assume this is the same car as a regular GLT wagon except for different bodywork and suspension? What is so special about them? I see many dealers/private people sell these for much higher than the V70. Or is it a marketing rip off that people fell for? Any trouble spots to look for? I picked one up with 71K

by the way, can a Volvo remote from a 96 Turbo work on my 98 XC?

I would start with replacing all filters: oil, air, particulate, fuel; and all fluids: oil, trans, bevel case, coolant; and keep an eye on it checking every morning before driving while the car is 'cold' for a week...everything should stay consistent in terms of level.

Inspect all CV boots on the AWD, and the control arm bushings, engine mounts...sometimes these can make noise and cause you to freak thinking the AWD is going to blow any second.

Take it to the dealer and get the ECU fault codes completely erased from the memory, this way it is a fresh start. Perform the required mileage service (the oil/trans/coolant replacement may be part of that).

This was my approach and so far so good. Vaccuum is 21-22 in Hg, and boost is 6 PSI+ all is good :lol:

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I am going to start my day on the V70 with a trip to the dealer to get hte timing belt changed. I was relieved that timing belt is <$500 compare to the $1300 quote I got for the Audi. I will also change all fluid. How different is the AWD Volvo setup? Does it have a differential and transfer case fluid or do they only have one fluid to change?

I had a 850 Turbo, so I have a few idea of what I am about to get into. I will miss the 15.1 sec run though :( The stock XC wagon only runs 6psi? Yikes

Just a word of advice, dont mismatch tires on the XC. When I was in college and worked at a tire shop, we had to replace a whole transfer case because the AWD system took a poop after we replaced one bad tire that was a different brand.

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so if you bought a 98 XC70, why is this in MY 99?

moved.

and your new XC boosts 8 PST stock.

I thought there was a typo in the topic. It would make more sense to group the 850s vs the 70 series. Oops

How safe is it to increase boost to roughly 10-12psi on the XC?

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so if you bought a 98 XC70, why is this in MY 99?

moved.

and your new XC boosts 8 PST stock.

I don't know, Kev...

not to knock your knowledge, but my old 850 LPT was at 6 psi stock, If I recall Correctly, and the XC spikes to 6.5, then sits at 5/5.5 steady. Your previous S70 was at 8 PSI?

Could be my gauge, too. :huh:

I thought there was a typo in the topic. It would make more sense to group the 850s vs the 70 series. Oops

How safe is it to increase boost to roughly 10-12psi on the XC?

most ECU upgrades give it about 10-12 or so. When I had a ST upgrade it was advertised as 12 PSI, but the gaige never went past 9/10. I contacted Oliver and he said that was not abnormal, as every car is different. The car got some much needed balls, too!

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1st off: Kevin is right about the stock boost.

2nd: There was no base model AWD. There was a 97 850 AWD which was essentially a GLT and a 98 V70 AWD which is a GLT but w/ AWD.

The XC version gives you foglights in addition to the things mentioned as well as roof rails, and nets in the cargo area i believe.

Good luck w/ your new car.

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1st off: Kevin is right about the stock boost.

2nd: There was no base model AWD. There was a 97 850 AWD which was essentially a GLT and a 98 V70 AWD which is a GLT but w/ AWD.

The XC version gives you foglights in addition to the things mentioned as well as roof rails, and nets in the cargo area i believe.

Good luck w/ your new car.

[bows to the masters] stand corrected [/bows to the masters]

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