E-mailer for Rear Wheel Drive Models - February 2012

Timing Belts and Kits

If you don’t know the age or condition of the timing belt on your Volvo and it isn’t noted in your records, you should consider replacing it. Record the date and miles somewhere under the hood for future reference.

The cost of not replacing your timing belt might surprise you. There’s the inconvenience of an unexpected stop that leaves you and your Volvo cold. There’s the cost of towing, and, if you’re not near home, the unknown shop repair costs. Volvo recommends replacement every 50K miles.

Also, remember that the timing belt won’t do its job if it’s not tight. Be sure that your tensioner spins freely without bearing noise or replace it with a new one. Normal replacement is at 100K miles or when the second replacement belt is installed.

Crankshaft Pulley Holder Wrench

An absolute must on Volvos with automatic transmissions or when you don’t have air tools. The hole in the handle fits over the tensioner stud for a secure hold. Withstands the torque specs specified by Volvo for the crank bolt.

Crankshaft Vibration Damper Pulley

Volvo began using a crankshaft vibration damper in 1985 when the B230 engine was introduced. The damper helps to reduce the vibration inherent in all 4 cylinder engines. A small section of rubber separates the inner and outer portions of the crankshaft pulley. Over time, the rubber begins to weaken and allows the outer section to rotate around the inner piece. This can lead to squeaky noises coming from the engine compartment that sound like loose belts. The ignition timing marks will no longer line up and when using a timing light you will see the timing marks slowly rotating as the outer pulley slips.

Some owners have reported cases of the outer pulley moving inboard enough to allow the belts to rub on the timing belt cover. If yours is exhibiting any of these problems, you should replace it before it fails and leaves you stranded.

Valve Shim Release Tool

ipd’s valve shim release tool is now available for your B21, B23 and B230 engines. This tool had disappeared for a while but we’ve gone into manufacturing of our own version and now you can get your valves adjusted once again! Pair this with our valve shim kit and you can get your valves set properly whether it’s just time for regular service or if you’re upgrading the performance of your engine with a new camshaft. Don’t forget the valve cover gasket to keep that top end sealed tight!