newer volvo 8.1 gas-question

Yes, worry BIG time.

The 8.1, especially the GXI, are prone to trouble with the belts.

Due to the very long run of the belt, even if one part of the run is out of sync of the whole, the belt will be shagged.

Make sure when you buy the new pulley and belt you get the new criss-cross banded belt. If the bearing has gone, change it now. It will save you loads in the future.

The 8.1 is a fine engine if you really keep on top of the servicing. Mani & riser flushing (saltwater use?) with freshwater will also save a few bucks in the long run.

Good motor, I'm just glad I'm not paying the gas bill

Hi,

So come on Fish, what bearing is that you are talking about?

1, Is it the belt tensioner bearing? ( Belt tensioner)

2, Is it the Forward Main Bearing? (Mounted behind the Crankshaft Pulley)

3, Is it the Water Pump Bearing? ( If Pump has a belt driven pulley)

4, Is it the Alternator Bearing? ( If Alternator has a belt driven pulley)

5, Is it another one that I have neglected to list here?

I am not familiar with the Volvo GXi in particular however; many engines have issues with dampers. The rubber isolator tears loose and the results are not pretty. You may ask Volvo if they have any TSB or known problems. There are several companies that sell modified and liquid filled replacement vibrations damper for big block Chevy's.

Steve

On V8 gas engines, such as this, the water pump is driven by a belt. The most obvious bearing that gets worn is this one.

Cartridge type pumps are used, thus the bearing is pressed into the body of the pump.

Sorry for confusing you in this matter.

The OP wrote: "When I look a the crankshaft pulley I notice that it revolves in a slightly wavering orbit ...The other pulleys in the system have a seemingly perfect rotation."

http://www.time4learning.com/readingpyramid/Comprehension.htm

My bad.

Fish

Hi,

Fish, How is belt tension achieved on one of these engines?

The belt tensioner is mounted near the top of the engine and are mostly very robust.

What normally happens is the water pump seal or bearing is worn and thus drips onto the lower crankshaft pulley. This is often the cause of a problem.

Any wobble in a pulley is not a good sign though.