2000 Volvo S80 T6 Transmission/subframe removal

MyS40T4 · Post by **MyS40T4** » 21 Apr 2014, 02:42

Hello,

I'm prepping the car for removal of the gearbox and subframe (if it's not too painful) from my S80 T6.

The gearbox is toast and I'm thinking that while I'm at it, I'll remove the subframe and clean it all up to get better access to everything. While the gearbox is out, I'll be replacing the engine sump o-rings, reseal the sump and replace the rear main seal. Anything else worth looking at while I'm there? The car has done about 200k kms (125k miles).

Are there any gotchas to getting the subframe out? I'm looking at supporting the engine gearbox from above, pretty much as shown in VADIS. I may use a ladder that converts to a work platform that will fit across the car to support the engine/gearbox - any comments? Think I'm insane? See the pic;-) :

Otherwise I'm looking at building my own support brace from rectangular section tubing to keep the cost down.

Finally, I will have about 16-17" clearance under the car (maybe a little more) using the standard jacking points for axle stands - hopefully the gearbox should come out given the space?

Cheers,

Chris

Bluevanacd2005 · Post by **Bluevanacd2005** » 21 Apr 2014, 04:53

I wouldn't use that ladder to support the engine and transmission. With hinges in the middle like that, it is bound to fail when you put a lot of wieght on it.

Spenser

matt5112 · Post by **matt5112** » 21 Apr 2014, 05:12

I'd suggest changing the turbo oil return seals, oil cooler seals, every coolant hose, swap to 2005 PS bottle/cap/feed hose, timing belt, t stat, consider new oil seals for the crank and cam, new engine mounts, LCAs, etc.

Consider the the fact that the rubber bits usually have a life span of 10 years and you're at 14 going on 15.

If you're just installing a used transmission, then a lot of that you likely won't want to replace simply due to cost. However if you're getting a rebuilt transmission, get an upgraded valve body from someone like triple edge performance. That will make the transmission last a lot longer.

Also a good time to consider changing the rad, heater core and consider a FMIC. The rads are known for leaking at the end tank seals and will take out the engine very quick as it is all aluminium. Check the charge air tubes for splits, they might be shot and in need of replacement as well. This includes the pcv system as well.

Also the transmission cooler in the rad will likely be contaminated and damage the new transmission rather quickly.

MyS40T4 · Post by **MyS40T4** » 22 Apr 2014, 04:36

Thanks Matt5112 - what is the benefit of the 2005 PS bottle/cap/feed hose?
Most of the other bits have been changed already (PVC, Rad etc) and the transmission will be rebuilt by me. I don't know if I can stretch to a upgraded valve body as I'd have to buy one outright as it's not really cost effective to send the old one between US to Australia. I've seen enough of the mods to improve the life expectancy to have a trans that will hopefully last the life of the car. Definitely adding a trans oil cooler with thermostat controlled fan - heat is definitely a killer for these transmissions.

Yes, reconsidering the ladder idea!

matt5112 · Post by **matt5112** » 26 Apr 2014, 17:50

The newer bottle and hose is less likely to leak. They redesigned them because the early bottle/cap was known to be terrible.

Post by **Oly_850** » 04 May 2014, 08:53

Save yourself much grief and use this purpose built engine support. $62 on Amazon, I have one, works like a champ.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00061SFR ... SX200_QL40