First I would like to thank everone in advance.

Should I buy special tool #5284 or not?

 

What year is your Volvo? They changed the crankshaft pulley in 1985. The tool will make the timing belt change easier, you may also investigate "The Rope Trick" I never used it but many swear by it.

Take your time and allow more than you think it will take. Consider changing the tensioner and water pump while you are there.

 

If you do purchase that tool take my advice from learning the hard way and purchase the tool from FCP Groton.

Here is a link to the thread about the issues I had with my Crank Pully Holder Tool. https://volvoforums.com/forum/volvo-240-740-940-12/crank-pully-holder-46753/

Also as darkdelta suggested I would go ahead and replace the tensioner, water pump, crank seal, cam seal, and intermediate seal since you will be in there.

 

FCP has great prices except for their delivery fee of almost $20, I can go to this volvo parts store in Albany, ca. for original parts, and even though they cost a little more, it's still less than FCP with the extra $20 fee for shipping.

 

Ha!! I guess I'm back to FCP. My parts store does have cheaper parts, if they had it "in-stock" lol Takinf the leap of faith and buying from FCP for the first time, spooky. i vetted them trough the BBB and so far, so good. will up date later!!

 

I just use a 1/2 drive air wrench and it comes right off. To install I use the belts to hold it and a 1/2" drive torque wrench to tighten.

 

anyone in SF bay area want to buy one for $25 i am in san jose mine is Volvo tool, not IPD, not FCP

 

I did what jagtoes does...i use a 1/2 inch ratchet and air. Used it on mine and a friends when we changed his. no issues at all

 

ive had great experience with fcp.

 

If you have air tools, not necessary. If not very good investment.