What to do if your Volvo air pump fails?
If the air pump has failed in your Volvo, there is an alternative to buying an expensive new or used Volvo air pump: you can buy a rebuilt or used VW air pump and convert it for use in your Volvo. A few questions arise when considering this course: Will the VW pump work right?
Where is the negative connector on a Volvo?
On the VW cover, the negative (brown wire) connector has been cut off and installed on the negative (black wire) connector on the Volvo cover. This is required because the Volvo negative connector is too narrow to fit onto the VW motor negative spade terminal.
What kind of air pump does a Volvo VW use?
The VW parts 021 959 253B and 037 959 253A are similar and would probably work. The 021 959 253C that I bought was made by Pierburg, just like the original Volvo air pump. I think the 021 959 253B and 037 959 253A are made by Pierburg also. Whichever pump you buy, it is a good idea to test it electrically before beginning any conversion work.
How long does it take to convert a Volvo air pump?
The VW-Volvo conversion process will take about two hours and requires a file, punch, hammer, screwdrivers, wire cutters, pliers, solder, soldering iron, heat shrink tubing, hacksaw, utility knife, 8-32 machine screws, bolts, washers, lock washers, tie wraps and (optional) Loctite.
How much does a new Volvo pump cost?
The official Volvo part (1270558) costs around $295 new and around $150 used. Working used Volvo pumps are somewhat difficult to find probably because they fail in service due to corrosion.
Is there a plastic collar on a Volvo air pump?
There is no plastic collar in the old Volvo pump because there are outer fingers in the cover and a ring built into the motor housing to hold the spring.