PCV SYSTEM recommendations/advice for a newbie Topic is solved

shape819 · Post by **shape819** » 16 Oct 2019, 14:45

Hey all - I am NEW to volvos and new to working on cars generally, but I just bought a 1998 v70 and I'm reading a ton and trying to learn. I'm going to have to do a cleanout of the pcv system, and I was wondering whether anybody has recommendations for great guides, videos, how-tos or just general words of advice.

The first thing I'm looking at is sourcing what I need to do the job: I'm going to purchase the pcv system replacement parts, get some oil, a fuel filter, fuel system cleaner, and transmission fluid. Are there any recommendations for exactly which pvc system replacement to buy? I've found so many at varying prices, and I'm a little over my head. I'd also love recs for the proper oil and transmission fluid weights (it seems like 75w80 is right for transmission fluid but I just want to be sure!)

Any information would be so helpful!

Post by **matthew1** » 16 Oct 2019, 15:37

Welcome to MVS, shape819. PCV system has been discussed quite a bit here. Take a look at viewtopic.php?t=28487

Post by **abscate** » 16 Oct 2019, 15:42

Welcome shape819!

You’ve touched on a topic here that we have strong feelings about. Rubber parts of the PCV see a lot of hot oil vapor amd the cheap aftermarket parts don’t last. We have had life reports of months on the low cost stuff

Generally you want to stick with Volvo parts on the things that take a lot of labor

In the Volvo Repair database there are several wroteups on the PCV service

Timing belt is another thing you need to evaluate on a “new to you “ Volvo

That’s a manual transmission fluid you are referencing , is your car a stick shift ?

The process of restoring a Volvo to like new running condition is called Stage 0 here, it doesn’t mean you are doing a classic car install, just returning the car to tip top running condition

I’ll find and link to Robert Spinners famous “ new Volvo “ video , too

Post by **abscate** » 16 Oct 2019, 15:45

PS.....semicolons and Oxford commas, Has to be Brown

shape819 · Post by **shape819** » 16 Oct 2019, 15:54

Thank you! Yes, the car is a manual, and luckily, the timing belt was replaced by the previous owner not too long ago, so I'm not worried about that quite yet. I've found a bunch of stuff on IPD and FCP Euro, some genuine volvo parts like the fuel filter as well as these system replacement parts (https://www.ipdusa.com/products/4993/11 ... lvo-114832) but I know people have complained about these sites so I just don't want to be purchasing something low quality.

also you correctly identified me via my oxford commas...not sure whether to be embarrassed or proud

Post by **abscate** » 16 Oct 2019, 16:18

You can use Bosch stuff which makes OEM for Volvo ( original parts)

The IPD link is the right one for a Naturally Aspirated , or NA car. The turbo model might be different. If you have a big fat pipe going over your motor you have a turbo.

The big things that Volvos consume are spark plugs, distributor cap, and rotor. These are things that go bump in the night and stop you, or cause misfiring.

FCP will ship free above $50 and they are also about an hour from you by car, so their 5 day ship comes overnight

We also love their lifetime warranty of stuff if you plan on running your car forever, this pays off quickly. You can even return oil.

We actually do enforce grammar rules here, but seriously, text talk is the only thing that really gets you into trouble.

I’m at Brown for business a couple times a month.

Here is a great video from Mr Volvo himself, Robert Spinner ( 18 minute life commitment)

https://ma.vlip.lv/video/dnt%2FLGb5Z4UWvoI%3D.html

Post by **abscate** » 16 Oct 2019, 16:23

Have you done the glove test to check for PCV pressure? That can help your prioritize your maintenance.

Quick description. Put a nitrile glove over the oil filler cap snout, cap removed, and gently rev engine. You want the glove to NOT inflate. If it stays limp, Your PCV is working well enough to wait another 10000 miles

Post by **cn90** » 16 Oct 2019, 19:48

Couple things...

1. The oil trap is just a hollow box, it lasts > 200K miles.
So you can re-use it.
Just clean the inside the a small screwdriver and some gasoline.

2. All rubber parts (short rubber coupler, hose to top of engine etc.) ---> use Volvo genuine parts only.
They are cheap.

3. Don't buy the vent hose from Volvo (just a piece of junk).
Search forum for the Heater Hose mod:
viewtopic.php?t=53448

4. The factory Oetiker clamps, you can use new Oetiker clamps (FCPEuro) or screw-type clamp.