Volvo Repair: timing and timing belt, timing belt tensioner, interference engine

Question
My son has a 1983 clunker he drives to work and the timing belt broke.  Is it as easy to just replace the belt or does the timing need to be checked or adjusted.

Answer
Tony,
If he has a 2.8 liter V-6, a broken timing belt would not damage anything else. If he has a 4-cylinder or diesel, it is likely an "interference" engine. That means if the belt breaks, major damage can be done when the piston top contacts any valve in the open position. Have him check with a dealer to find out if his specific engine is an interference engine.

If you replace the timing belt, the timing marks on the crankshaft and cams definitely have to be lined up. He should also replace the timing belt tensioner and idler.