T5/R Engine rebuild advice

[Jimmer]

Hi all, i have recently acquired a T5/R UK Manual. The engine is currently in bits and about to be rebuilt. So far it’s new rings, bottom end bearings, skimmed head, valves re ground, new gasket set, new turbo - standard stuff really.

I’m reading about the weakness in the engine with rods and that they bend with some extra boost. Now whilst I’m not planning on any mods is it worth at this stage to up rate them and engineer in some extra strength or am i over thinking it?

Added to that are there any upgrades i should be thinking about whilst the engine is in bits? I’m tempted to have the rotating assembly balanced as that just seems like a good idea. The PCV system has been done as I know thats a common issue. I’m just trying to do it right whilst its in bits.

Also, can anyone recommend a go to place for decent parts?

Any thoughts and advice welcome. Thanks, James.

[classicswede]

The rods would be a good idea if you think you might go for some upgrades later on. I would get the block shimmed or even do a closed deck conversion

The 850 t5 and 850R clutch are both now no longer available, if your clutch is worn you will either have to go with a rebuilt clutch or a flywheel conversion that uses available clutch covers

[Jimmer]

Thanks for the reply.


I’m not looking for any power upgrades at the moment rather just improve on the standard setup if possible whilst its in bits. That said, who doesn’t want a bit more power!?…

Shimming looks like a good idea - any recommendations on where to get them or brands to go for/avoid. Or just a google?

I have heard that clutches are hard to find. Luckily i have a new OE Volvo clutch cover and plate with the car. The rear main has gone so the current clutch is pretending to be a wet clutch…

[classicswede]

Deeworks in Canada do some nice ones but as long as they fit does not matter where they came from.

The gaps can be partly blocked so clean them out before fitting. I use some old feeler gauges to clean them out with.

If the old clutch cover and friction plate is available I would be interested in them as core units

[Jimmer]

Thanks for that - I’ll get some ordered.

The old clutch cover and plate are about - I’ll dig them out and let you know what they are. Sachs i think.

Back to the roads - is there any machining required of the block in order for them to fit? Or nice and easy?

Thanks for the help. Whilst I'm familiar with other engines i’m new to Volvo.

[classicswede]

The h beam rods are a direct swap for the originals