Hi All (volvo s40 1.6 xs 2000 reg)

Is it possible to inspect /clean the vvt pulley without taking it off the engine? I have just changed the oil and it was really black & the oil filter looked like a burnt crisp? (previous owner had not changed oil for 30,000 miles)!!

I think the vvt pulley may be dirty but cant tell? I have cleaned the vvt solenoid and that works ok now but was really gunked up, thats why i think the pulley may be gunked up as well.

Many thanks

 

Don't know about the UK but over here we use something like Seafoam to clean internal passages. You don't run it for long, like 500 miles then change the oil.

Also, an old school mechanics trick is to use a pint or so of ATF in the oil to thin it out and clean the built up crud. Basically change the oil but leave room to add a pint of ATF then top off with regular oil. Run it like that for 500 miles then change the oil and filter.

You do not want to remove the VVT gear. It isn't keyed or notched and can be installed completely out of synch unless you have the proper cam holder tool.

 

Hi Hudini, thanks for your info. I have just checked on ebay uk and i can get a can of Seafoam. Do i just pour it into the engine where you put the oil?

Cheers
Donovan

 

Yes. It thins the oil and cleans the gunk. It is a solvent. Follow the instructions on the can.