So next week im picking up a manual s60 T5. After finding this forum all I've done for two days is read up on the vehicle and put together a game plan for the car.

I dont have maint. records but it was a one owner with 160k miles. From what I know this was traded in so the couple must have got a new vehicle. Based on all this im confident it was well maintained but I cant be certain til I can get it home and look over it thoroughly. Im new to Volvos so id hate for this to turn south on me.

After doing research I believe the first thing I should do is stage zero. That way I am starting on a pretty clean slate. Although it being a manual im not sure if I need to do the trans flush or not.

Next I plan on doing a boost gauge. This will be my first turbo car and from what I've read is a valuable tool to install.

After this I will probably wait a while as I need to save money. But eventually im thinking OBX down-pipe and cat-back exhaust. Then IPD softloader.

Would love to hear some opinions on this and thanks for all the information you guys share!

 

Hi, welcome to the forum and congrats on your purchase.
First thing that I would do is to change the timing belt just to be on the safe side since you don't seem to have maintenance records. And have it checked by a trustworthy mechanic so that you can know what needs to be fixed (if needed) and come up with a budget...Pay particular attention to suspension mounts and components as they are known to wear out.
I had belt + suspension done on mine for $ 550.
Once you're satisfied that everything's fine then you can go ahead with tuning. Choose a reputable tuning company and go for stage 1 (ecu remap+software loader) you will gain 30-40 Bhp. Stage 2 comprises of inox / modified cat back and does not add any extra hp, is rather like a prep for stage 3 which will add another 20 hp with a 3" downpipe.
Imo, go for stage1 first, pair it with a nice set of rims and decent tires and then decide if you need to go further. As for the gauge, you don't really need that item on a low pressure turbo machine. Instead of that, save the $ for a turbo timer.
By all means give a wide berth to "cheap" tuning garages and those who promise wonders. At best you'll gain nothing...worst case scenario...well, beware of "washing hands".
Good luck, enjoy your ride!

 

thanks for the advice ill keep all that in mind!