QuestionQUESTION: Dear Expert, I've been having a significant oil leak from my 1996 volvo 850 turbo. The oil seems to be leaking from the oil filler cap. Someone mentioned to me that the problem is probably caused by excess pressure in the crankcase because the flame trap is clogged. If this is the case, how do I clean the flame trap? Plus, my car is holding at 69,000 miles, do you think it's time I change the timing belt? I bought the car at 67,000 miles fully loaded, premium sound system and it runs great for $2,800. Do you think it was a good deal.
Lastly, my friend mentioned that this car should only be fed premium gas (93) grade. I was filling up on 87 and it she was running, but I tried the premium, and things felt smoother. Is this true? Should I only use 93?
Thank you for your time and expertise.
All the best, Yitz
ANSWER: Yitz, you do NOT need premium fuel. Check your owner's manual but I believe t-belt is recommended at 105K. Remove box and clean with a good solvent until flow is unrestricted. BE SURE it is completely dry inside before reinstalling, unless you like loud bangs under the hood.VBG.
Mark
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QUESTION: I just went to the volvo dealership, and the mechanic told me that the 1996 volvo 850 turbo doesnt have a flametrap. He says it has some sort of "Breather Box" which will cost $500 or more to fix/clean because it is under the intake system. I felt he was taking me for a ride, so I would like to fix it myself. Where is the "box" that I need to open and clean? I wont do it myself, I have a friend who is a mechanic, so he would do it. I just gotta tell him where it is.
All the best, Yitz
ANSWER: Yitz, it varies on different models and I cannot remember them all. Follow/trace all vacuum lines leaving the intake manifold until you find it. Most are on the passenger side of the motor. HTH
He might be right on the location on the Turbo cars because they are different. But you should still be able to do it yourself.
Mark
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QUESTION: I am looking to purchase a timing belt for my 1996 volvo 850 Turbo from Rockauto.com (if you know a better place, please let me know). There are a couple options there, and I was wondering which belt I should buy. They have different amounts of teeth, and they have different prices. I'm a bit confused, so your guidance would be really appreciated!!
Thanks alot, Yitz
Answer Yitz, did you get that flame trap issue resolved?
The parts supplier's application guide should list only ONE belt for your vehicle. I prefer Continental brand myself. If they can't look up the right one, get a part # from the dealer or go here. www.ramac.com. Or here, www.worldpac.com, or here, https://www.ssfautoparts.com/public/home/main_entry.asp HTH These are the BIG players. They import directly from the manufacturers. Rockauto buys from them and resells to you!
Mark
