I've been searching for a bit and haven't really found any good threads detailing this.

My neighbor asked me this morning if I could replace the engine in his 1998 V90 or 960 (can't remember what it is exactly). I know it's a straight 6 RWD automatic car. I told him I'd look into it and see what all is involved.

Basically, the timing belt snapped and junked the motor. He said he found one for $400 and wants to know if I'll install it.

I've replaced several engines in other cars before and I greatly prefer working on RWD anyway.

Any good threads on engine replacement? Or any threads about just removing or just installing an engine?

Is it better to remove engine and trans together?

How good are the Chilton's or Haynes manuals for these cars if I were to go buy one at Autobone?

Thanks for your help guys!

 

If it's a wagon, it's a V90, not that it matters.

Not sure about the difficulties in the replacement. Sounds like a low priced replacement motor. Wait for the pros, they should let you know how hard.

 

It's definitely a 4 door sedan and not a wagon. Sorry, I'm very new to volvo's, never really dealt with them before besides getting a run with one on the highway way back in the day in my MR2 turbo and having him surprise the hell out of me!

He said he could pick up the engine for $400. I'm going to see where he is getting the engine and how many miles the new engine will have.

 

So it's a S90. It would be nice to do a compression test on it. Other than that I wish you guys well.

 

I am by far not a pro. However I removed my 850 engine twice (transmission repair last year & right now I managed to overheat the engine). It just takes a bit of time and patience.

I used the DIY AllData & this forum to figure out what was what. I bought a engine from everdrive (guaranteed to work) and it came in about a week. The only issue I'm running into is finding a engine block gasket kit that won't break the bank. I think I found one on-line. I will have to let you know if it works out in a week or so when it arrives.

 

I have access to Alldata as well. I'm waiting to see where he is getting the new engine from and what shape it's in before I decide if I'm going to change the gaskets and t-belt.

 

It's really not hard, everything in these cars is surprisingly open, and intuitive. I haven't pulled an engine in one yet, but I did do a HG and all the timing belt bits. If the vehicle has unknown history - make him spend the few hundred bucks and re-do all the timing belt/water pump parts. As far as with/without trans - 'd look at it and decide. I have a feeling there is enough room you can un-bolt the bellhousing bolts, and slide the motor forward without too much issue. Regardless, it won't be too terribly hard.