Can't believe I;m still fooling with this car.( 92 740,base) I'm installing a new timing belt. I was trying to squeeze the tensioner spring when it just flew off.I can't figure out how to put it back on because ,even though I can compress the spring, there's the issue of the rod inside . The new belt is on, timing marks are good. Can't go any further til this is taken care of. As always,I appreciate any advice! Thanks, and ...Spring has sprung! Tinkerbelle

Here's a video on changing a OHC 4 cylinder Volvo timing belt with a spring loaded equipped belt tensioner and it shows how to change the tensioner and install the spring.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APXKlGO1xeE
--
Eric
Hi Performance Automotive Service (formerly OVO or Old Volvos Only)
Torrance, CA 90502
hiperformanceautoservice.com or oldvolvosonly.com

Thank you all for your responses. Yes, I tried to squeeze the spring so I could pin it.That's when the spring just boinged off. Step by Step Volvo video has a fix too but I don't get it. I'll have to try the pliers or vice. Thanks! I'll let you know.

Well I fiddled with it and could not get the spring back in..I don't have a vise.But my local mechanic got it back into the tensioner so all is good.Sometimes ya just gotta have a little help. Thanks you all again.

Are you installing a new tensioner? Or did you not compress the spring and insert a drill bit (or something similar) into the rod to keep tension on the spring?

Either way it sounds like you need to get the spring and rod back in place on the tensioner. I have a pair of very large adjustable pliers that open up enough on one of the settings to squeeze the spring and rod against the tensioner. Once it is squeezed enough to insert the drill bit and hold it together you can mount that assembly to the front of the block.

It will probably take several attempts and perhaps having someone who can help by putting the drill bit into place once you get the spring compressed would make it easier.

Randy
--
Any twenty minute job is just a broken bolt away from a three day ordeal

I’m not sure I understand the issue, however…. Once you compress the spring there should be a very small hole somewhere that you can temporarily insert a small drill bit which will hold the spring compressed until the belt is installed. Then the drill bit can be removed, allowing the roller to apply pressure against the belt.