Oil separator; clean it or R & R it?

[amazon]

I'm an old volvo mechanic (in my 60's and know all about the old volvos 122, 140, 240 stop!) I've recently been dragged into the '90s with a '95 850 wagon. I'm pleased thus far and am being sure that everything re preventative maint is up to date. Seeping oil at the usual spots indicates a clogged PCV system and sure enough the flame trap is plugged but I'm unsure of the procedure regarding the oil separator. How big a job is it? It doesn't look easy to get to. What's the best procedure any of you have discovered? Can it just be blown out or must it be removed and cleaned or replaced?

For any of you old Volvo fans out there try googling An Old Volvo song. TD

[misha]

Somebody just clean pcv and flame trap and others replace whole pcv system including hoses.
To reach the pcv box,you need to take the intake manifold off.From that point everything is reachable and easy.
The signs of a clogged pcv system are oil all over valve cover,oil around oil dipstick,increased oil consumption,sometimes oil burning and smoke(positive pressure)from oil dipstick when engine is hot.All of these signs could also mean that engine have too much blow-by(worn engine).
So,everybody just clean or replace pcv system to know for sure that pcv isn't the problem.
Here is write-up how to do that...it's for turbo model,but procedure is almost the same:
http://lakesidedp.com/uploadpics/pcv/

[Wagonizer]

the hoses get brittle and should be replaced but you can clean the
separator box with soap and water and blow out the flame trap with compressed air

best

B