I am about to do exactly the same thing...change the slave cylinder, clutch, pressure plate and pilot bearing. My 1998 V70 went 160K before needing some work. I have to say, please pay attention to what I am about to pass on...

I went though extensive research on this and found out that there were ...

I used an aftermarket ignition switch. I still have the original one and since my problem did not go away, I would assume the original ignition switch is still good. I'll put it back. I will also look for a loose connection with the antenna ring too. I do ave a buddy with a VIDA code analyzer. Last ...

Yes, you are correct. The ECU & TCM are coded to the key in this 99 model. I have replaced the TCM, had it re-coded to the ECU at the place in Canada and they said the same thing. So, you are thinking that since I am wiggling the steering column and the car will start, it is probably not the ECU or ...

Thanks abscate. Key ring...that's what the dealer calls the antenna, right? I'll look at that again. What do you mean by "immobilizer" is this an actual module module or just a term for a function the antenna (key ring) serves with the cars CPU under the hood?

My car is doing the classic start then stop after 1 second (intermittently). I'v replaced the key antenna (the ring) and the starting switch on the other side of the column from the tumbler. The car still does this start - stop intermittently. The steering column in this car moves a bit. So to start ...

OK, the verdict is in. BTW - Thanks for the offer of the borescope. I forgot I have a very good Olympus borescope in the basement. I used it in cylinder #2 and saw a pie shape piece missing from one of the exhaust valves. At this point, I do not know if it is worth fixing. This '99 XC has a bad ...

I am having problems getting the cam cover off of my 5254T engine. I have removed all 40 bolts plus the small bolt on the tail of the exhaust cam. The cover is lose on cylinder #5 side and in the middle. It will not come lose over both cams.

What else do I have to do?

Sorry, but what do you mean by all the valves will be closed when the cam cover comes off? Is there some mechanism that causes the valves to close when taking off the cover?

I agree... Oh duh, of course. This is why I chat on this site. I get great suggestions for a proper diagnosis. I agree, there is something wrong with one or more of the valves in cylinder #2. I'll take the cam cover off and start with a visual inspection of all 4 valves. Then onto a pressure test at ...

A borescope...That's a good idea. I would if I had one.

Does anyone have any other suggestions or an experienced diagnosis so I do not have to rip the head off?