Hi,

I use a Volvo dealer for service, somewhat against my better judgment but I haven't found a better shop. They are telling me that my breather box is getting clogged and needs cleaning, and that it's a $750 job.

I started doing a little online research because I had never heard of a breather box before. I found a wide range of opinions on whether they are user serviceable or not, from "it's an easy job" to "it's a nightmare to get to and the dealer's price is a bargain".

I've read a bunch of posts here and have skimmed through the relevant section of the FAQ, and I see lots of advice about using Gunk engine cleaner to clean out the box, but even those stories vary. Some tell you to change the oil immediately after, others after running the engine for a few miles. And although I haven't read every word yet it seems like the directions for finding this special box and the right tube to pour the Gunk down are elusive. I also find that a lot of the advice is for a different model year, and I know that can matter quite a bit.

Neither my husband nor I are hobby mechanics, though I did take auto shop in high school and that has to count for something. :) We are engineers and can follow directions, but don't have the knowledge to fill in the gaps people leave when they are describing something they know well.

My questions:
- can we attempt the Gunk treatment without too much risk of doing damage, as long as we follow the directions well?
- does anyone know of directions for my model year, or for a model year that had the same engine?
- are we crazy for even thinking of trying this?

Thanks in advance!