My timing belt snapped on my 1990 B230f engine. My mechanic advises that engine is now toast and requires head/valve replacement. He indicates that 95 % of all engines of this type are terminally damaged when this trauma occurs. Advice from the those who know. Help!

 

find a new mechanic. this one knows nothing of volvos.

the only 'interference' engine in the redblock lineup is the B234F DOHC 16V. ALL the rest are completely non-interference, and you just need a new timing belt (and tensioner, and probably should replace the engine seals if they haven't been done in awhile, ditto the water pump, as its all exposed when you're doing the timing belt).

 

Pierce, this board is fortunate to have you in residence...

 

Pierce, Ditto on the praise. I appreciate your quick response and keen knowledge. The car is used by my daughter and she was crushed that it might be a gonner (I as well). This is my eleventh Volvo and I shan't give it up! I would install parts myself but I'm w/out my tools!

 

I would consider changing the timing belt tensioner as well. FYI the timing belt has to be installed with the marks lining up exactly, if they are off by just one tooth the engine will not run.

 

Thanks Pierce! I just bought a 93' 940 and I shutter to think the belt snapping on me actually would kill the car. that's just insane!!!