Hey guys. Im the new guy right now. Been tinkering with my 2000 Volvo S40 B4204T. Just swapped the oil from... yuck black whatever it was to 10w-30 Royal Purple synthetic. My plan is to let it run for another few weeks, then run a seafoam can in it for a week. then do an entire new oil change again. Ive got a front right side mount to change, and threw in a set of NGK BKR6ES plugs, as they were the only close to copper plugs available. Granted their nickle core, but ive been searching around here alot and Iridiums are a no no. So Ive got the mount coming and the volvo plugs. i checked the Bougicord wires and volvo coils, and they look pretty good. I was not pleased with the wires running across valve cover, as the plastic sheething had crumbled apart, so i replaced it.
Now... heres the point to my post. Most of my friends have for years run Honda Civis, and Mitsu Eclipses and EVOs and the sort. Almost every one thinks they need to advise me on the "what to dos and what not to dos." I would prefer to speak and learn from those who have the knowledge with this specific car, motor and turbo. I have alot of knowledge when it comes to wrenching cars and motors, but limited with turbo knowledge. Im not looking to make a billion hp or intent to sopy someone elses build.
The car has 91k miles on it. And was bought for my family use. The kids and wife love it. And id just like to have a reason to enjoy it more than i do. A bit more power, and some satisfying simple styling. So if anyone could point me in the right directions, i would appreciate it. As Ive researched the turbo and believe it is the low pressure TD04L-12T. And thought iHavent a clue what that all means, I would like to, or find something with a bit more kick that doesnt require a full engine rebuild. Exhuast and reflash and injectors are a can do. Already have a K&N flat replacement filter. Again, I dont want to sacrifice reliability or go racing evos and 400hp civics. just want some more kick. thanks in advance to anyone willing to share their knowledge.

 

um.... ok.... bump?

 

Check over at Swedespeed too as that site tends to have a more active tuner base.

 

Generally there are a few things that you could do, although performance upgrades are rather scarce for the car. Assuming you've got the car at stage zero, the following are some possible upgrades:

• 14T turbo (TD04H-14T) from the European T4 model is a direct bolt-on
• Upgraded iPD spark plug wires
• Upgraded exhaust system (I believe EuroSport Tuning makes a direct bolt-on, as does partforvolvosonline.com)
• Afterwards... BSR still offers an ECU tune
• Suspension: there are coilover kits available or lowering springs if that's what suits your fancy
• Wheels: there are some good-looking options for these Volvos - just remember the hub-centric rings or you'll get some nasty vibration issues
• Strut brace is available to stiffen the suspension
• Finally... some other dressup options include new grille, silcone hose kits, aluminum oil caps... the list goes on! You just have to look for them

After replacing my strut mounts and struts and adding the strut brace, replacing axles, adding flashier 17" wheels, adding new plugs, and cleaning out the throttle body as well as the idle air control valve (IAC) the car really livened up a good bit and is more fun to drive in the corners and looks pretty pretty good. Planning on upgrading the turbo at some point which should be fun. Good luck with the project!

 

sounds like a real good place to start. thanks rallyr32