Possibly a happy ending on my 94 960 with the blown belt. The dealer has agreed to take full responsibility for the damage since the belt was not replaced at 50k and I was not advised. He has said all 24 valves were bent and that they would do a complete valve job. When I went in to see the engine the top of two of the pistons had fresh metal dents on top and this hasn't really been addressed by the service tech. In this situation what is the right fix for the pistons if I get a new/fixed valve and head?

I'd whine hard for new pistons. You dont want little jagged chunks of metal on your damaged pistons causing hotspots, which will most likely result in preignition... (honestly, i'm guessing here, but it seems all too logical)

We all know that when the combustion chamber gets carbon'ed out and causes hotspots, pinging occurs. I'd guess dents on the pistons could also cause a hotspot, and this could result in pinging. At least mention this to the dealer and get a response, but I'd be VERY firm I wanted *ALL* the damage fixed. After all, they've already admited it's thier dang fault.

So, if they wont either replace the pistons or machine them to new (if this can even be done in thier current condition) take it up with Volvo. I have not dealt with volvo myself (never had to, all my volvos are too old for them to care!) but have beard many cases where they can be VERY receptive to fixing problems.

Since the dealer has already admited thier mistake, and are workign with you, volvo will probably follow the dealer, and possibly order them to get the job done right.

I've had to do this with Ford. Dealers can sometimes just care less... A phone call to the service manager from a factory rep will straighten him out in a hurry if the rep is on your side.

Good luck, let us all know what happens... just don't be too soft with them!

-Nate