Greetings all

There are no Volvo specialist shops within 50 miles & my '98 s90's timing belt is due for replacement (10,000 to go).

I've ordered the level 2 kit from FCP - belt, tensioners, water pump, serpentine belt, bolts & gaskets.
I've decided to pay somebody to do it.

Been reading the FAQs, and my question is - is there any reason that a competent mechanic should not be able to handle the project?

thanks large

I found a local shop willing to take the job, using my parts.

Quite easy actually. Perhaps the easiest Volvo timing belt job to do. Just make sure to maintain the timing exactly right.

just ensure that the new timing belt is place EXACTLY the same as what is being removed. In other words the "mechanical" alignment (mechanical timing) MUST be spot on between the 2 cams and the crank gears. they cannot become out of alignment.

This should not be an issue if the car was running fine and this is just a simple belt replacement.

The concern is if the belt broke or jumped teeth. Then that is a huge issue and the valves are bent.

thanks all

The S/V/90 and 960 is quite easy because there is so much room at the front of the engine bay. The mechanical bits are nearly the same as those for the newer transverse engine S/V/70 and 850 models, but instead of working in the one inch of space between the engine and the strut tower, you've got easy access and miles of space (relatively speaking) in front of the motor. Any mechanic should be able to complete the work without issue.

Should be no problem for a competent mechanic. Probably easy compared to some of today’s cars!

Difficult part might be finding a mechanic willing to use your parts. Most mechanics like to make money on the parts too.
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Will I buy another Volvo??? We'll see....