Timing Belt questions

[WinterDriver]

Time to change the timing Belt on my "04 xc90 t6. How do I know if my car has an automatic tensioner, and also what special tools do I need to do the job if any? Thank you for the help

[precopster]

The automatic tensioner looks just like a pulley. The hydraulic is a long slender piston-like metal chamber which interfaces with a pivoting tensioner.
Volvo uses mechanical tensioners on all newer models (post '98 or thereabouts).

On my 2002 XC70 there appears to be a fuel line right in bottom near the crank pulley which will need to be unclipped. It's a pretty straightforward change, just be sure to bring the motor to timing marks by rotating the crank pulley (30mm bolt) then accurately mark the timing marks on the cam sprockets with white-out or similar. A set of sockets in 3/8 drive (six point are preferrable) and some degreaser. To pull/replace seals a picker tool and a couple of large sockets or cam seal driving tools on eBay. Check the front cam seals/crank seal and water pump for leaking before you do the job as you would want to address this while you're there.

General rule of thumb is water pump replacment every two belt changes. Use Genuine Volvo timing kit components ONLY and a Hepu or Aisin water pump.