Volvo: 240 diesel engine noise, vacuum leak, mechanical experience

Question
Hello jason,

I just boght my 1987 245 diesel engine volvo and there is a noise on the motor. I just found out that it cames from the brakes vacum pump. Is it repairable or do I have to buy a new one?

Thanks

Fernando  

Answer
It really depends on what the noise is.  If it is just coming from a vacuum leak in one of the hoses nearby, it's no big deal, simply replace the length of hose that is cracked.  If the noise is coming from within the pump itself, then the situation is more difficult.  Many times, the noise comes from the bearings inside the pump failing.  It some cases you can remove, disassemble, and rebuild the bearings inside the pump.  That takes some time and a fair amount of mechanical experience.  Another option is to go to a junkyard and simply pick out another used pump from a Volvo, and swap it in for your old one.  Good luck!