Tighten the timing belt

Fig 1: Identifying Needle Position At Varying Temperatures

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA.

This adjustment is to be made with a cold engine. A suitable temperature is approximately 20°C / 68°F. 

At higher temperatures, for example with engine at operating temperature or at higher ambient temperature, the needle is further to the right.

The position of the needle, when aligning the camshaft belt tensioner at different engine temperatures, is shown in the illustration.

Fig 2: Identifying Belt Between Intake Camshaft Pulley, Idler Pulley And Crankshaft

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA.

Tighten the timing belt: 

There are two variants of the belt tensioner.

Up to engine number 3188688  the eccentric must be turned counter-clockwise to tighten the belt.

From engine number 3188689  the eccentric must be turned clockwise to tension the belt.

• turn the crankshaft clockwise carefully until the camshaft belt is tensioned. The belt should be tight between the intake camshaft pulley, idler pulley and crankshaft.
• hold the center screw on the belt tensioner in position and turn the eccentric on the belt tensioner clockwise/counter-clockwise, depending on the variant, until the tensioner's needle passes the marked position.

  Then turn the eccentric back so that the indicator reaches the marked position in the center of the window.

• Secure the eccentric and tighten the center screw to 20 Nm  .

Check that the needle is in the correct position.