Hi all,
I just returned home from a 6 hour round trip with my newest Volvo to date. A mint 1995 960 wagon. I am very impressed with the ride and smoothness of the engine and trans. This is my first non-redblock. I turned 160K on the trip home and she is a white beauty. As you can tell, I like this car so far. I'll really get into her this weekend and do the usual new car stuff. I paid $3500 and feel I got a good deal as long as everything checks out, I didn't do my usual anal-retentive evaluation on this one, more of a I knew what I was looking for and all the basics looked great and the car was exceptionally clean so I went for it.

Palmer
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1994 944na, 1980 265 V8, 1989 244, 1987 745ti

Dear Palmer,

Good p.m. and hope this finds you well, and relaxed. Unless you have documentary proof - a detailed, written/printed receipt - that shows who last changed the timing belt, where it was done, which parts were used, and when it was done: get the timing belt changed. Tomorrow!

Unlike any Volvo with a B230 engine - which suffer no harm when a timing belt snaps - the B6304 power plant will be ruined, if the timing belt breaks.

On this and other "interference" engines, a timing belt breaking allows the pistons to slam into the valves, bending valve stems, damaging seals, and possibly also carving divots into piston tops. I gather from the Board's bonafide 960 experts, that can mean head replacement or an engine replacement.

In sum, you have the hard proof, do the usual PM things. If not, get the belt changed: first thing tomorrow.

Many, many happy miles!!!!!!!!!

Yours faithfully,

spook

Good a.m. to you as well,
Yes a TB change is my first order of business, as well as a transmission fluid change, brake fluid change (when I can find my power bleeder), oil, brake inpection, general fine tooth comb treatment. Thanks for your concern, I always appreciate your posts.
Palmer
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1994 944na, 1980 265 V8, 1989 244, 1987 745ti

When you get down to do the timing belt,also check out your pullyies and tensioner-they will likely be ready for a change . The water pump will also probally be another part ready to be replaced as well. The shocks and struts on the car if oem are probally getting near the end ,go the Monroe route from Sears-you won't be sorry.
Hope you enjoy the car
Poolman