This is my first post here and im sure it wont be my last, this site is awesome. I have a question for you guys.. My dad just picked up a 98 s70 with 140k on the clock. He got it from a guy who got it at auction and turned around and sold it again. Needless to say the guy was cluless on maintanence that had or had not been performed. We hope that the timing belt has been changed once but have no idea if it ever has.. So now my dad is all worried that it may break if it has never been changed. Do you guys think its possible for the previous owners to be so careless as to have never changed it? If we take the cover off can we visually inspect the belt and tell if it needs changed? Thanks in advance for any input.

 

Yes pull the cover and check it over and see if it needs to be replaced.

 

If it's got 140k and you don't know if the timing belt has been changed, I'd have it changed. I got mine with 130k and my dad and I went ahead and changed both belts to play it safe.

 

+1 on that... better to change as added insurance than to assume and break.. then it's a new motor!

 

We pulled the cover off today and there are cracks in the belt, looks like it may have never been changed. What are the good brands of belts? Should I get it through Volvo or just get one at Auto Zone? I found kits on ebay that include the water pump, is it best to replace that too? Also are there any step by step write ups for changing the timing belt? The crank pulley looks hard to get to.... Thanks for the help

 

Do not get a belt from a discount parts store. I recommend a Volvo replacement belt. The timing belt job is not real difficult if you have done them before, but if you are not experienced, pay someone to do it.

 

I will deff. get one from volvo then. Any special method to keeping the cams in place?

 

There's a tool you can buy from ipd that locks both cams in place while you change the belt.

http://www.ipdusa.com/Volvo-S70V70-1...-128-367-1191/

 

Continental belt is an OEM belt. Continental makes them for Volvo.

 

How are the ContiTech belts? They seem to be the most reasonably priced ones. Also what about Gates? Its a toss up, please chime in with some knowledge to point me in the right direction, Thanks.

 

I believe ContiTech is what my dad bought to replace my belt, and it's proven to be a good choice so far.

 

Conti tech belt is an OEM belt!