Greetings all,

recently had the timing belt replaced at 120k klm service on my 96 850 t5.
Shortly thereafter I noticed a new noise when the steering was turned to
full left lock. Not quite a grinding noise, but definitely straining. No
noise at all on full right lock.

Power steering fluid levels are ok, I even topped up to the limit with no
change to noise.

The service was an independent mechanic who specialise in volvo but mainly
older models.

I assume the power steering pump would need to be moved/removed to change
the timing belt so I'm suspicious that the steering problem has somehow
resulted from the service, I'm seeing the mechanic again this week but as I
dont know them well I'd like to be as informed as possible ! Obviously it
has to be fixed one way or the other so apart from what may have caused it
I'd like to know of anyone elses experience and fixes

Any advice or suggestions much appreciated, thanks in advance for any help

One more thing to suggest (the other two posts are right on): when replacing the timing belt, part of the right front wheel well liner is folded back to allow access to the crankshaft timing gear. If this liner is not replaced properly and fastened down it may rub against the tire, particularly at full lock. When parked, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right and look at the wheel well liner with a good light. The inner side (nearest the engine) should look uniformly flat and should be fastened securely to the body.
--
-- Bruce / '82 244 (315k miles!), '86 745, '87 760Ti, '94 854

The power steering pump does not need to be moved to change the timing belt. The serpentine belt does have to be removed and then replaced to perform the service.

Phantom

If the noise is like a squeak/grind upon hitting full lock you need the steering stops greased -- dead easy, check out Bay13 site.

I had this recently. The problem was low fluid level in the power steering resevoir. Fill it up and do two full locks to remove any air from the system.

Tek.