stupid me recalled reading something that said; "checking the belt is easy, just one bolt holds the cover on" or words to that effect. I just took the single bolt I saw on my 98 v70.
It was a long shoulder bolt on the side upper in the centre of the cover. 12mm socket.

Was this a bad thing to do? will I be able to pry the top open to get a look at the timing belt this way?

Thanks, Terry

 

The cover should slide up now then you should be able to lift the top section up and inspect the belt.