So, in the coming months I plan on pulling the engine and tranny out and fixing the transmission leak and replacing all the engine seals and gaskets. While the engine is on the stand I plan on adding some power mods just for passing power and some fun on the side. My question is would a stock 89 redblock and AW70 handle 10-12 psi? I'm in the upper Midwest USA and finding any junked out turbo cars are almost impossible. My other option would be getting the head ported and new valve springs and getting a better cam for it, whether it's the IPD VX cam or a better redblock cam like an A cam or K cam. Any input from people who've built b230f + t's or just NA engines would be really helpful. Looking for 125-150 up at the crank. Thanks!!

-Corbin

I wouldn't be confident in the AW70 if you +T. I have a 940 Turbo that came to me with a broken AW70 in it, which was itself a replacement for the original AW71 that's supposed to be stronger. I think a PO killed both transmissions.

Go for whatever option is going to be most fun for you, but take it easy with the slushbox or consider sourcing a replacement to keep on hand. And whike you've got it out of the car, take the time to pop the pan off and replace the filter.

There are some mods you can do on these to make them shift better, which is supposed to prolong their life too. Just search here and TB.

Andrew - I totally forgot about the adjustable cam gear! I suppose I could install the VX and advance the timing to get more torque out of it. Really just want more power off the line and the passing power, but being able to roast the tires from a stop would easily put a smile on my face. Thanks for the advice!

- Corbin

If you should go the Turbo route--remember to install Turbo model exhaust valves. They are sodium filled to cope with he extreme heat generated. Years ago I purchased a used Saab 900 Turbo (original model) which ran poorly. I removed the head for rebuilding and found exhaust valve stems stretched so thin they had to be very close to breaking which would have destroyed the motor. I realized the head had been replaced with a NA cylinder head. Replacing them with the proper valves set things right.
It sounds like for what you want, going the NA route should get you there. I've owned Turbo 240 and 940 models and have "souped up" a number of B18/20 powered 140 models. You will get the power for passing with a turbo -- off the line, not so much. - Dave

I own a turbo (not a 240). “Off the line not so much”= turbo lag. Turbo lag is a definite factor on older turbos. On newer cars it has been minimized to some degree.
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Will I buy another Volvo??? We'll see....

Corbin,
I have done several +T builds. I am in a similar boat with wanting a bit more power out of my '89. For time and money I am going to go with a VX cam, and adjustable gear. A +T build can get out of hand (money and scope) in a really big hurry.

Good luck!

Andrew