OK well I last did the timing belt (no seals replaced) on my 89 240 two years ago, mileage was then 180K kilometers.

Due to a long commute to work, mileage was now 293K and I decided the belt was overdue (mileage wise).

The one I put on last time was a cheapo TRW (cheap but fine). I was pretty darn impressed, the belt was completely crack and surface wear free last night. I've seen belts in bad shape, or even with a shiny glaze due to age, but this one was so good if I had removed the top cover and checked prior to undoing everything I would have jsut let it be.

Well in addition to the belt I took the opportunity to replace those front seals, to my surprise the interm and crank one were volvo seals. Prev owner of car did not service at volvo, hence most likely these were the '89 seals. guess what: they showed no leaks either. Well I replaced the three anyway (not scan tech).

Point being that you would be surprised how good something can actually be...

Also point I wanted to make was that I had a scan tech cam seal and a 'german' one in my inventory... it's amazing how cheap the scan tech one looked... (tiny spring, thinner depth, thinner inside lip, etc...

Also I replaced the tensioner, though relatively quiet and play free, it looked original too.

Lastly, I decided to keep the water pump. I know it was redone at around 150K from previous owner. Even now at 293K the shaft is play-free and leak free.

Take care,
Greg Mustang
Montreal
Canada