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As you note, getting the AC belts on/off the B230F engines is often tight even with Genuine Volvo sized belts. Some aftermarket equivalents are a bit looser, some seemingly a bit tighter. I almost always need to turn the crank and walk the belt over the edge of the crankshaft pulley (harmonic balancer). I rarely need a belt tool unless a PO used a non-standard belt.
As you note, with the upper adjusting bolts thoroughly loosened you can only move the compressor in so far. Sometimes loosening the slotted adjusting arms at the mounting bracket and fully removing both lock nuts allows you to push it in a bit closer. Removing the lower mounting bolt can also allow the compressor to be brought in a little tighter if you're desperate, something I often needed to do with my B234F.
There are various belt lengths spec'd for various years and models of B230F/B230FT/B234F engines, from around 760 to 770 mm. I presume it's got do with the compressor used and clearances from the compressor to the chassis. Often times when you check the fitment lists, a belt will be a universal fit for both B230F and B230FT engines. Another belt might only be listed for a B230F. Such single engine belts will normally be a slightly shorter belt and thus more difficult to install. I always use the longer universal belts, especially as I have both engines to service and only need to keep one size on the shelf.
Definitely go for European sized belts from a reputable manufacturer like Continental. The standard A/C belt width for our B230 engines is 13 mm. Some manufacturers, typically North American, only make SAE belts and spec their nearest narrower equivalent, typically 1/2", which is slightly smaller and will ride slightly lower for a looser fit. That makes mounting easier, but I always avoid such narrower SAE belts. They ride lower and as they wear they will start to bottom out in the pulley and more easily squeal. Tightening the belt to get rid of the squeal can lead to belt premature belt failure and deformation of the rubber mounting bushings.
As a tip, when you go to tighten the A/C belt, use a straight edge across the face of the compressor pulley to check if it's in line with the crank pulley groove. Often by tightening the back lock not first and tightening it a little more will bring the pulleys closer into alignment. This will help cut down on wear and squealing. Don't get carried away or you can break the long 10mm adjuster bolt. I'll sometimes use a pry bar against the block to help so I don't strain the adjuster bolt too much.
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Dave -still with 940's, prev 740/240/140/120 You'd think I'd have learned by now
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