Howdy, recently purchased an 85 245 for my son. It has a very minor coolant link at both radiator hoses and the water pump (among other issues.) I am looking at parts on IPD and am curious about part quality.

They have silicone hoses for top dollar, OE hoses for midrange and aftermarket hoses for cheap. Same with water pump kits, OE is much more expensive than aftermarket.

Is there an overall consensus on using upgraded vs OE vs aftermarket parts?

 

Depends on the quality. Some aftermarket stuff on ebay seems really very, very cheap... IPD stuff is generally OK, still, sometimes, I hear things about failing parts... I never skimp on sensors, electric parts, things that will strand you-- I am more tolerant with things like belts and hoses...But if the car is a keeper, better get OEM! That's what decides for me. And, yes, there is definitely a problem with aftermarket....

 

Basically everything Lev said.

Congratulations on your purchase, Volvo is a great first/last/always car. Easy enough to learn on for someone to become somewhat self sufficient with maintenance. My daughter is about to inherit (in October) our 87 245 as her first car.