Replacing head gasket
 

We have confirmed that I have a blown headgasket in my 2000 S80 2.9L. Rather than paying the $3000 that the local shop wants, I am purchasing my own parts and doing some of it myself. I have also arranged to have one of these mobile mechanic guys (retired master mechanic) help me with the actual head removal and install. However, I need to supply any special Volvo tools that are absolutely required to get the job done.

Looking over the tool list from AllData, I can see quite a few special tools with some of them costing more that $350 to get. What special tools will I actually need to buy?

Any tips for getting the job done using general tools that will not require a thousand dollars in tools for a one time job?

Thanks!

The main one you will need is the one to lock the back of the cams.

bump for this. Also is the valve spring compressor necessary or can you get this at an auto parts store. So The rear cam lock is needed what about a tool for the VVT?

You can usually get a normal valve spring compressor to work.
If you have the cam lock tool nothing else is needed for the VVT.

Where is the best place to get the rear cam lock tool? So there are no tools needed for adjusting the cams with the VVT?

The tool is pretty expensive. Might be easier to make one.
Once the cams are locked mark the timing mark on the cam cover as it is. Then remove the belt and turn the pulley all the way to the right and mark the cam cover off of the timing mark. Then turn it all the way to the left and mark again.
This way when you go back together you can make sure all the marks line up correctly.

Is there anywhere I can see pictures of the tool or what the specs are, etc?

This is the best I can find. The red arrow points to the cam lock tool.
Attachment 21848

Ok I found the write up on how to make the tool and I am happy to do it. But, the head is already torn apart and I can't use it as a template. Any ideas on how I can make this work?

You have to find out for sure which way to set the cams. I mean one cam on the back is offset one way and the other is offset the other way. Maybe you can find a picture of a back of a motor to know which one goes which way.

Have you thought about maybe Renting a Tool...I know O'Reilly Rents out tools...just a thought.....

Try www.volvotool.com. They have information and suppliers for finding Volvo Tools.

Greg, you do realize this thread was in 2010?

I do now :o

note to self: pay attention to thread dates.

2000 S80 headgasket replacement
 

I know this is old thread, but does any one have a step by step procedure for changing the headgasket. My car has 112K on and the headgasket just blew. Thanks