My 1984 242 (2 doors getting rare) had a metallic sound and squealing, so while out of town I stopped at a recommended mechanic for an evaluation. Mechanic said it needed a pulley bearing and a new belt. I'm not a mechanic, but I believe these are my options. Recommendations / feedback?

1. Replace the pulley bearing. This mechanic gave an estimate of $260, but doesn't specialize in Volvos.
2. I called my mechanic, a Volvo specialist for over 30 years. He said if the bearing is bad, he recommends replacing the whole AC Compressor. I see online the part and clutch (?) for approx $350-400. I've seen online estimates of $700 - 900 total for parts & labor.
3. IPD has a conversion kit for $45 to bypass the air compressor. Unsure how long this would take.
4. I guess option 4 is a salvage yard AC Compressor, but that seems risky.

Considerations:
i) Air conditioner - its never worked, and I don't think it worked well in my first 240. I've never had the freon (?) replaced or changed. If a new AC Compressor was a game changer to getting actual working AC (I live in NorCal), I might be up for it, but I get the impression there are other related parts that also play a role. It sounds like a potential black hole with minimal payback.

ii) Budget - given Covid, etc., not flush with extra money right now.

iii) The Car - I've kept up with most maintenance, but there are still projects and needs. Like a rebuilt drivers seat ($525), and needed paint job.

It's got about 240,000 miles and has a fairly clean body (and no rust). New exhaust system, tire rods & ball joints, radiator, water and steering pumps, brake master cylinder, battery, tires, hoses, & Pella lights.

Thank you for your time.

(P.S. I've driven 2 Volvos for over 30 years, but the tire rods & AC Compressor were new items for me.)

 

An economy solution, and what I've done many times for customers with bad compressors:

Take the ac and power steering belts off, and one Alternator belt. Put a 10 x 1075 belt on the power steering pump to the empty spot on the crank pulley where the 2nd alternator belt was. You may have to trim the timing marks off the timing cover. The remaining alternator belt will have a tendency to slip since there is only one - so it needs to be new or in great condition and tight. Solved for the cost of 2 belts and 25 minutes of your time.

 

Thank you for your professional opinion saying this option is viable.