Group:
In the AWD/FWD list a member states that the 960 engines are prone to self-destruction unless carefully maintained.

What is it that goes bang, and why does it go bang?

Do you suppose the poster is referring to the early engines with the very short timing belt replacement interval?

-- S'V'

I believe the engines in the AWD/FWD Volvos are interference engines as well?

DEWFPO
--
1998 S90 071,245 and 1995 964 154,100

All of them are.
--
See the 700/900 FAQ under 'Select Link' button on the top right.

It can self-destruct for two reasons:

-the timing belt or tensioner fails and causes valves to strike pistons.
-the cooling system fails or leaks and the engine overheats.

In both cases the results are economically catastrophic: minimum costs of $2500-$3000 and a fair likelihood the engine is complete toast. And they can easily be prevented by regular changes of timing system components and periodic renewal of radiator, hoses, water valve, and thermostat. Neither is expensive and both provide good assurance the engine will last a long, long time. See the FAQ for more details.
--
See the 700/900 FAQ under 'Select Link' button on the top right.

The 960 engine is no more prone to self destruct than all the other interference engines on the market (the vast majority today). All engines need to have the timing belt changed at regular intervals.

It is most difinatly the effect of the timing belt breaking while the engine is running. If this happens, at any speed your looking at serious consequences.
Hope that helps
Poolman