Setting tensioner

sicknoto · Post by **sicknoto** » 29 Jul 2021, 10:19

Hi I need help figuring out how to set the tensioner on my 2000s v70

Thanks!

Nick

Post by **FireFox31** » 29 Jul 2021, 12:18

The timing belt tensioner? Here's what I found in preparing for replacing mine:

The tensioner is ambient temperature sensitive.
The Haynes book says "Using a 6 mm Allen key, turn the belt tensioner anti-clockwise until its pointer reaches the stop to the right of the central notch, then turn it back to align with the central notch. The tensioner must always be set... from the right of the central position."
https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=19511
Good tensioner info at VolvoSpeed - http://volvospeed.com/Repair/ManualTensioner.php Link is broken. Post a fixed link if you find it.
The FCP video at 11:20 min and 15min describe setting the tensioner. Some models must move from 11 to 2, others from 11 to 7.
Adjusting the tensioner counterclockwise moves the temp indicator clockwise.
My old tensioner seems way out of spec, pointing to 5 F (left) when it's 80 F outside.

sicknoto · Post by **sicknoto** » 29 Jul 2021, 12:30

Thanks for the resources fire fox I’ll look at them right now

Post by **scot850** » 29 Jul 2021, 14:19

I had a nightmare first time I did this. I had bought an aftermarket kit from IPD and it included an INA tensioner. I spent 5 hours trying to get it to work but every time I tightened it it moved.

Eventually gave up and went to the local dealer and compared to an blue box part. They swapped it for the blue box part as a 'warranty' return for free. They were great in those days!

Installed the OE one in about 10 minutes first time. I know MVS folks here recommend the INA part which is usually dependable, but it did not work for me.

Good Luck!

Neil.

Post by **abscate** » 30 Jul 2021, 02:15

Per jimmy, the temperature setting on the mechanical tensioner isn’t mission critical. Just get it between the marks and you should be fine

Post by **FireFox31** » 30 Jul 2021, 12:01

scot850 wrote: ↑29 Jul 2021, 14:19 I had a nightmare first time I did this. I had bought an aftermarket kit from IPD and it included an INA tensioner. I spent 5 hours trying to get it to work but every time I tightened it it moved.

Thanks, that's a good tip. The FCP video makes it look like the tensioner moves fairly easily, especially compared to accessory belt tensioners.

For my Benz, I bought a Benz branded accessory idler and it failed in 13 months, right out of warranty so the dealership wouldn't replace it. Swapped in the identical INA idler at less than half the price and it works great. Sure, they're the exact same part, but that experience led me to always buy from the part's original manufacturer when their branding is clearly stamped on the car manufacturer's version. INA and Bosch often stamp their parts so I look carefully to see who else does.

Post by **RickHaleParker** » 30 Jul 2021, 13:27

When setting the Tensioner. Go past the temperature mark, then come back to it. Hold the Allen key steady as you torque the bolt to spec.