Hello All,

I apologize if this question has been asked before. I have a 1996 850 GLT wagon with a 5 speed. I change the t-belt every 70,000 miles. However, no where in the owner's manual does it specify when you should replace the:

tensioner
idler
dampner

I hope I have listed the names correctly of these components which the serpentine belt runs off of. I've read accounts where tensioners have failed resulting in the destruction of valves and with it the huge cost of repair. I presently have 270,000 miles on my car, but have never replaced any of 3 parts listed above. I spoke with a parts clerk in my local Volvo dealership and he recommends replacing these parts at 140,000 mile intervals (every second timing belt change). I'm planning on replacing all 3 parts at the next belt change at 280,000 miles to be on the safe side. However, I would welcome any comments or advice on this question. Thanks to all who respond.

Hugh

You are pushing it a little!! The hydraulic tensioner, damper, etc should be replaced at least every 210K miles. Some places say at 140K, but that appears to be overkill for the hydraulic tensioner.

For your 1999, the belt and tensioner get replaced every 105K, replace everything at 210K.

Klaus
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Just driving a 1998 V70R :)

Klaus,

On the '99 XC when you say "replace everthing at 210K" do you mean besides replacing the belt and tensioner, I should also replace the idler and dampner too? By the way, is it called "damper" or "dampner"? Thank you for your response to this question along with the others I posted.

Hugh

With an "n", otherwise it would just be a little wet :)

Assuming that one wants the car to run for ever, replacing anything that spins at 200K would be good. The parts are not expensive and fairly easy to replace, so why not? Just stay away from the Chinese knockoffs.

Klaus
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Just driving a 1998 V70R :)

Klaus,

It is defined as, among other definitions, a mechanical device that smoothes or regulates oscillations, pulses or vibrations.

A dampener is a device for moistening.

Cheers,
Bryan

To be clear KlausC, could you please fully explain what you meant by "anything that spins".

I just acquired a car that's inching it's way up to 200k miles and I'm interested in performing all the service necessary to, as you say, 'keep it running forever'.

Also, is it safe to say you're not getting chinese knock-offs from FCPGroton or IPD?
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1998 V70 AWD Turbo 180k+

Hi,
I just did a tbelt on my daughter's new to her s70. I checked IPD for belt, tensioner and idler pulley. Cost was something like $146 + shipping but worst was the rep on the phone could not tell me who made the parts except that they were packaged by a company called Rayco (sp?). FCP had the belt by Continental(good stuff) but the manufacturer of the tensioner and idler pulley wasn't listed( probably should have called and asked) and wanted $116 +/_ . I ended up getting genuine Volvo parts from Tasca in R.I. (not in Seekonk ma. anymore) for $126 plus shipping.I use FCP quite a bit and I like IPD too (bought their cam sprocket hold tool to do the t belt) but couldn't resist getting actual Volvo parts at such a competitive price.



Dan

Non critical parts come from FCP and IPD. Plugs, wires, rotor, etc. IPD supplies sway bar endlinks. Koni supplied the struts. Engine parts come from the dealer, unless FCP sends me OEM. All drive belts come from the dealer, period.
I suggest that the pullys be replaced at 210K, for both the Tbelt and the Sbelt. The Sbelt tensioner should be checked and probably replaced. When in doubt, ask local mechanics for advice - not the service "advisors". Always get OEM water pumps.

Klaus
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Just driving a 1998 V70R :)