I need to change the cam seals and timing belt on my 2001 S40...the S40 forum is no help. Any ideas? Is it basically the same as my 1995 850? I never changed seals before...they are leaking. I might as well change all the seals. The mechanic wants $400 for the deal (without parts). I figure that, maybe, I can do it, and have some new tools in the end (crank puller?, pulley stabilizers). I am a tad fearful.

 

Did you see my post about the cam seals on the S70? Not sure what motor that car has, what type is it?

 

I would leave it to someone that works on Volvo's for a living.
You have to lock the back of the cams and be very careful.
In the last month we have had 5 S40's towed to the shop for me to put back together after a shop pulled them apart. They then found out you need special tools and towed it to us.
Also the VVT pulley(cam pulley) leaks the same percent as the cam seals do. If yours is not leaking you might want to go the extra mile and do that as well. I would hate to have you pay all that money only to have to do it again a month later.