Hello, everyone. I've got 177,000 miles on my 1990 760 Turbo and I'm at the point where I want to learn to do some of the maintance. I'm okay with doing oil changes (at least when it's warm outside) and I want some tips on performing an engine tune up. I want just replace the plugs, distributor cap and button and the wires. Looking at the Chilton's manual, that seems to be all that I can do without going to the local shop. Are there any tips about an engine tune-up that I'm missing? I've replaced the fuel filter about 8,000 miles ago and major stuff(i.e. timing belt and turbo) were replaced just before I purchased the car at 148,000 miles.

It's helpful to clean the ignition leads and coil exterior carefully with a damp cloth at each tune-up, especially if there is ever salt on your roads.

Also dump in a can of fuel injector cleaner twice a year or more often.

Get your OBD codes read (see the FAQ or pay for it) and maybe get the CO level checked by a mechanic.

There are load of other things not by any means unique to Volvos;

- Check the battery water level, clean the battery top, and check the cable clamps for tightness]

- Check all drive belts for tightness and condition

- Power steering and brake fluid levels

- Check the voltage regulator for correct voltage

- etc

- etc

- etc

After all, a Volvo is (mostly) pretty much like any other car and needs the same sorts of things most other cars need.

It's all in the details.

It's helpful to clean the ignition leads and coil exterior carefully with a damp cloth at each tune-up, especially if there is ever salt on your roads.

Also dump in a can of fuel injector cleaner twice a year or more often.

Get your OBD codes read (see the FAQ or pay for it) and maybe get the CO level checked by a mechanic.

There are load of other things not by any means unique to Volvos;

- Check the battery water level, clean the battery top, and check the cable clamps for tightness]

- Check all drive belts for tightness and condition

- Power steering and brake fluid levels

- Check the voltage regulator for correct voltage

- etc

- etc

- etc

After all, a Volvo is (mostly) pretty much like any other car and needs the same sorts of things most other cars need.

It's all in the details.

You don't just do tuneups on these cars. Other things need attention such as body lubes, lubricant and coolant changes, etc. Get a copy of the owners manual at the Volvo website (http://www.volvocars.com/) if you don't already have one. There is a maintenance schedule in there.

Take a look at the 700/900 FAQ under "Features" at this site for specifics on the tuneup items you mentioned.