Have been offered an '87 240 with 130k (no further details on variant, engine, gearbox) for free; all I know is timing belt snapped, car stopped.

Garage has reportedly said a piston is bent and quoted $1000 for repairs. As we are in France, the garage will know very little about Volvos (they're pretty damn rare over here).

I'll take the car for spares anyway but what about attempting a repair? I believe most European blocks are interference engines so piston/valve damage is possible. But how do you tell without removing the head? Can I fit a new t/belt and test it?

Finally, my own brick is a B230A auto box, is this ok for towing a vehicle trailer with another brick on it?

Appreciate your advice.

Neil