Hello Gang,

It is Spring here in Kentucky, and the time has come for me to catch up with Volvo maintenance. In about 2000 miles my 1999 V70 (2-WD, non-turbo, automatic trans) is going to be due for its second timing belt. This will be at 215,000 miles since the first one was installed 5000 miles overdue. At the same time, I am going to do other maintenance / repairs.

I am looking at parts on the Tasca site because I think timing parts are important enough to by direct from Volvo.

For the timing belt change, here is what I think I need:

Timing Belt,
Idler Pully,
Tensioner,
Water Pump with gasket,
Volvo Coolant.

Question 1: Is there anything else I need for this job?

Question 2: I don’t see coolant on the Tasca site. Do I just need to call them, do they not ship coolant, did I just fail to find it on their site?

Question 3: Does Volvo coolant get mixed 50/50 with water or is it already diluted?

Question 4: I think the 1999 has variable cam timing. If I am right about this, I seem to recall something about needing a cam holding tool. Is the cam holding tool a requirement, just a convenience, is there a reasonable work around for not having it?

I will also replace the serpentine belt.

Question 5: Should anything else be replaced as a matter of course when doing the serpentine belt?

Question 6: Is any good brand of serpentine belt okay or should I get this belt from Tasca also? (When I bought the car this belt looked poor with only 30,000 miles on it)

While the coolant is drained, I should replace the heater core. I don’t intend to buy the Volvo original core since they don’t seem to be much good anyway.

Question 7: Is there anything I need from Tasca to install the heater core such as the $32 pipe kit coupling? I seem to remember that I only need some o-rings.

Question 8: I am overdue for a cabin air filter. Should this be a Volvo part ($19 Tasca) or is an aftermarket part recommended?

Thanks,
Charley