I'm wondering if anyone has done this before, i was told that it should only be done by a ASE mechanic, but of course i wasnt expecting to pay so much for a change that i've done in other cars that cost $20 and 10min. Car has 140k and i really dont want this belt to destroy the engine. Should i change water pump too? What would you guys do?

 

No timing belt costs $20 and takes 10 minutes to change. If you're not very mechanically inclined, take the car to a shop and have it changed. There is no need to replace the water pump unless it has failed or is leaking. The chances of that are slim. You will need to replace the belt, idler pulley, and tensioner pulley. I usually replace the hydraulic tensioner unit at 140K, but you don't necessarily have to unless its leaking. You may also want to replace the serpentine belt if it is cracking.

 

would you sugest getting a timing belt kit? yes my car is right at 140k, so is there anything special i should know about installing a hydraulic tensioner?

 

Good instructions here

http://volvospeed.com/Repair/timingbelt.php

 

and be sure to go to ipd and get the Cam Locking Tool.

http://www.ipdusa.com/product.asp?st...hStartRecord=1

It will help a lot.

 

Bought a 98 Volvo S70 about a year ago with 220,000 miles on it. I used to be a mechanic so have done a tone of work to it such as. Struts and plates, both drive shafts, front & rear brakes, rotors and calipers, tires, heater core and the list keeps going. My concern is that I am not sure when the timing belt was changed and thinking since I am at 234,900 maybe that would be a good idea. I am very good with cars. Should I give this a shot?

 

Yes do it. You should have some sign of when the last belt was done. Have you looked around for the t-belt sticker? I've seen them all over the place. Glove box, cabin air filter cover, ecu box cover, front of the t-belt cover, etc.

Also, here are my opinions on the t-belt in general:
If you do NOT know the belt history, replace everything ASAP (except the water pump unless it is leaking).

I suggest replacing the belt only, ever other change. I never suggest anyone replace a water pump that is not leaking. I also recommend replacing the tensioner, idler and tensioner pully every other change unless one of the rollers is worn or stiff (they should turn with fingers but not spin to freely) - in that case it should be replaced right away. So, if are doing the job yourself, have all parts on hand and change them if they seem warn. I also suggest that everything that is 10 years or older (except the water pump) be replaced.

It would be a good idea to put the sticker where it wont get damaged or worn, and will be easy to see and read. I always install it on the ECU box cover or in the glove box door. Mark the sticker with all of the info, see the pic below.