1995 Volvo 850 when to change pcv system

2012 · Post by **2012** » 28 Jan 2015, 23:06

Hi guys,
Got a Volvo 850 of the 1995 turbo variety and I'm aware that when you have smoke shooting out the dipstick it's time to change the pcv system. But what about just little wisps easing out? And I did the rubber glove over the oil filler method and it does inflate but very slowly takes about a minute to fill it. Question is: can I wait until a leak develops to change it or would it be too late at that point and I should wait until aforementioned symptoms worsen and at what point should I tackle this job?

Post by **tryingbe** » 29 Jan 2015, 06:00

Change it, change it now.

Replacing crank/cam seals will not be cheaper.

Post by **mecheng** » 29 Jan 2015, 06:12

You should have a vacuum on the glove so: x2 change it and change it now

Post by **E Showell** » 29 Jan 2015, 07:41

Now would not be too soon. . . .

Post by **abscate** » 29 Jan 2015, 09:26

2012 wrote:Hi guys,
Got a Volvo 850 of the 1995 turbo variety and I'm aware that when you have smoke shooting out the dipstick it's time to change the pcv system. But what about just little wisps easing out? And I did the rubber glove over the oil filler method and it does inflate but very slowly takes about a minute to fill it. Question is: can I wait until a leak develops to change it or would it be too late at that point and I should wait until aforementioned symptoms worsen and at what point should I tackle this job?

If a cam seal goes it is a 30 USD part and an hour of labor - not too bad.

If the rear main seal (RMS) goes, the engine comes out...1000 USD or more.

As Dirty Harry says..."Are you feeling lucky?"

Post by **erikv11** » 29 Jan 2015, 09:28

Now would be a good time.

mika · Post by **mika** » 29 Jan 2015, 13:05

2012, there is a very active group of volvo enthusiasts in SD. They meet quite regularly and are a great resource if you are approaching a big job like the PCV with minimal experience. They also trade parts, offer advise, and get together for BBQs every month.

I dont know how I can get you in contact with them though. Maybe PM me?

Until you do the pcv, I would recommend pulling the dipstick up a little bit (not seating it all the way). (easy method). Anything that relieves pressure (in a completely clogged system) would be good. With the aforementioned method, you would have fumes going into your cabin; (easy but safer method) you can get some heater hose (2 or 3 feet), take dipstick out, and clamp the hose over the dipstick holder. and route the hose underneath the car.