Hello All,

My 1996 850 wagon, non-turbo has just hit 210,000 miles and I plan to replace the following:

1) timing belt
2) damping element
3) idler roller
4) tension pulley
5) water pump

I have the iPd brace to "lock" the two valve sprockets, so I don't destroy the cylinder valves and the iPd instructional DVD that came with the timing belt change kit. I've also have printed out the instructions from Bay 13 on how to replace the timing belt. I'm replacing the water pump because although it isn't leaking, it has over 100,000 miles on it, and while I have the car a part, I might as well replace it too. All of the other items (#1 through #4) have never been replaced. I've never done this service before, so I have some questions.

1) I am using a Volvo water pump. I notice it came with a gasket. Is it sufficient to use this gasket alone, or do you have to apply in addition to the gasket, a bead of sealer along the outline of the gasket?

2) With regard to the damping element, I see the hydraulic plunger is held in place by a pin that you pull out that releases the plunger. I assume, and this is what I want to confirm, that you install the damping element via the two bolts, and once in place remove the pin that is holding the plunger back. Am I right about this?

3) Is there any particular order I should follow in replacing all of the items listed above?

Thank you in advance to all who reply. I'm trying to be as careful and prepared as possible before I undertake this major service.

Hugh