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Re: timing belt change\coffeecup holder[ALL/1998] posted by Stoney on
Sunday, 9 March 1997, at 4:10 p.m.
Jules, If I understand you the timing belt is the original one. If so change it right now as you have gone 30K miles past max like of belt. Volvo calls for change of belt at 60K intervals so you should be 90% into second belt lifetime, not first. Eithe r way the belt should be changed NOW. Cost is in $350 range for NE USA, It involves removing radiator, and fan, pulleys, belts, etc. It is about 2 hours for good mechanic. Use Volvo OEM or Gates belts, and while the front is opened up take a REAL GOOD LOO K at the water pump as the time and labor for a water pump swap is 80% of the timing belt job. Do both at once and only pay the 1/2 hour labor plus $60 for water pump and have anothe 60K peace of mind. As to Volvo or private Mechanic it is up to you. I ha ve always fornd that a good ex-dealer mechanic to be as good or better than Volvo as long as the mechanic is VISTA trained by Volvo. You will save on labor and parts plus independent mechanics are usually more flexible about working to your schedule. But change that belt TODAY or risk having to buy a new engine! Stoney