We're going on vacation in two weeks (eek!), probably driving 1500 miles or so, and our 1996 850 has just hit 140,000 miles. We bought it used, so I don't know exactly when the timing belt was replaced, though the car had been maintained well, leading me to think that regularly scheduled maintenance happened.

So, we should be replacing the belt; but time is limited, and I'm wondering what kind of tolerance these motors have. Can I safely get away with belt replacement at, say, 72,000 miles, or should I be out there this weekend?

Part of the problem is that belts are way more expensive at the local parts houses than online, but saving $50 and risking $3,000 for a new motor is false economy, if the belts really like prompt replacement.

I just paid $200 to have a timing belt installed on a 94 850......at an Independent shop.....Volvo dealers tend to be about double (or more)....cheap insureance on an interference engine.

Good Luck,
Chris

If there is no sticker under the hood and no records to indicate when the timing belt was replace and you are now at 140K miles, I would replace it ASAP. Even though the previous owner seemed to take good care of the car, there are no guarantees. To me, this one is a no-brainer. I probably would have replaced it when I bought the car, with "no records" and "no sticker," no matter what the mileage. I just wouldn't take chances on your car and your family.
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1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon

Make sure at 140K that they replace not only the timing belt but the tensioner too (Demand it, no matter what they say)...typically changed every other belt replacement. If one of these breaks it will cause the same damage as a belt breaking...will most likely cause the belt to break anyway. Not that expensive over-all...get a good indy shop with experience with your car to do it...or even at the dealer, it's not to bad in terms of cost.
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1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon

I just got my timing belt replaced and noticed the volvo dealer put a stick on the air cleaner housing to document the replacement. The belt was not much - maybe $45. The accessory belt was more about $55. The whole job was $381 including tax.

Bet you would feel more comfortable on your trip knowing you have a good new belt in place--------, I would change it, but that is me.

dick