Smoking Dipstick

[scottyscott]

I recently acquired a '95 850 Turbo, with >170k (odometer broken), in San Antonio, TX. I've wanted an 850 for years...someone actually gave me one in August! Can't beat free.

Anyhow, when I pull the dipstick, smoke puffs out rhythmically. When the engine's gunned, the smoke disappears for a sec and then reappears. When I release the throttle, the smoke goes away entirely until the engine's returned to idling speed. Just occurred to me that I'm not sure if this happens all the time, or just when the engine is warm. I'll look in the morning.

I've cleaned the PTC (which was pretty clogged). I'm getting ready to do the PCV job (tomorrow). I've replaced most of the vacuum hoses.

My question: Is smoking as I've described congruent with a clogged PCV? Is there anything additional I should consider before/after the PCV job other than a cold beer?

Planning on replacing timing belt + water pump next. Appreciate any answers!

Thanks.

[Ozark Lee]

Your symptoms are typical of a clogged PCV system and Justin's writeup covers the PCV very well. A long and a short 1/4" extension and a swivel joint goes a long way on getting the intake manifold off. The thing I always forget to buy is a new throttle body gasket. While the throttle body is not necessarily PCV related it just stares at you with the intake manifold being off, begging you to clean it.

...Lee

[osman]

i prefer just cleaning the existing system other than replacing anything other than the hose going from the ptc nipple to the oil trap which is usually the only part that beaks when removing and needs replacing. everything else just needs to be cleaned. beware of the dipstick bracket and intake manifold mistake that many people make which results in vacuum leak.

[rspi]

Replace the entire system every 100,000 miles.

[scottyscott]

i prefer just cleaning the existing system other than replacing anything other than the hose going from the ptc nipple to the oil trap which is usually the only part that beaks when removing and needs replacing. everything else just needs to be cleaned. beware of the dipstick bracket and intake manifold mistake that many people make which results in vacuum leak.

Well, I started today. Given the age of the vehicle, and the fact that I'd already ordered a complete set of replacement parts, I opted to replace the PCV.

But what are the dipstick bracket & intake manifold mistakes? I discovered I've got to order another couple of replacement hoses, no big deal.

The butterfly valve in the throttle body was actually "gritting" shut. Any recommendations on how to clean the whole darned thing? ...I'm kind of afraid to look any closer at the EGR, but I may as well.

Thanks for the answers, guys.

[xHeart]

viewtopic.php?f=1&t=50950 This was my experience while working on PCV -- cleaned IAC, washed throttle plate, replaced hoses, returned AFtermarket kit and picked up replacement parts from Volvo. done right the first time. Lots a help from MVS friends.
No complaints. Loving the boost with each drive.

[jblackburn]

But what are the dipstick bracket & intake manifold mistakes? I discovered I've got to order another couple of replacement hoses, no big deal.

Don't get the bracket on the very right bottom screw of the intake manifold stuck between it and the gasket. Better yet, just remove the darn thing. It'll create a huge air leak and leave you having to take it all back apart again.

The butterfly valve in the throttle body was actually "gritting" shut. Any recommendations on how to clean the whole darned thing? ...I'm kind of afraid to look any closer at the EGR, but I may as well.

Remove it. Get a gasket at the auto parts store, or have them order you one...most can get it the next morning for you.

Then, tons of carburetor cleaner. Clean the IAC valve at the same time.