Preventive Maintenance on the PCV System - Is it Feasible, Have you Done it?

VolvoHugger · May 30, 2024

Hi, my first-generation S60T still passes the glove test, but I'm not exactly in the position right now for a PCV replacement if arteries were to clog up.

Has anyone ever performed preventive "unclogging/cleaning" on their PCV system? I'm thinking of using a syringe to push some Penrite EGR & CAT Clean Plus down the vacuum hose and inlet hose, towards the oil trap. If that tiny brittle vacuum hose connector or the oil sump return ever clogs up like in those YouTube videos... I won't be able to hug my Volvo for a while. Planning on only using a smaller amount, letting it settle, driving for a while and then changing the engine oil and filter.

If no one's done it before (will ask elsewhere too), I'll mull it over for a few days/weeks/months, do it and then report back with the results (engine blown/not blown/etc.)

BTW I'm not new to servicing cars, have done timing belt kits and more before, and without any valves (etc.) being ejected too!

Rramrod · May 30, 2024

Why would you not purchase a new oil trap?

They're not expensive

VolvoHugger · May 30, 2024

ramrod

Sure, I don't mind purchasing one. Installing it, is another thing. Have you cleaned and replaced a clogged PCV system yourself? It's a frustrating task, and I've seen second-hand S60s for less than it costs a mechanic to properly clean/replace the PCV system.

https://yewtu.be/search?q=s60+volvo+pcv&page=1&date=none&type=all&duration=long&sort=relevance

Rramrod · May 30, 2024

The inlet manifold has to be removed

adrianw · May 30, 2024

My XC70 needed its done, i just made a day for it on a weekend and knocked it over, the joys of owning a unique european car as you well and truely know. and cheaper than employing a mechanic to do it, no offense to mechanics, i found it hard enough in a regional area finding an interested one to do that sort of work.

VolvoHugger · May 30, 2024

ramrod

adrianw

I know it's best to replace but I like to do things differently. Especially since I'm worried that the PCV job will finally push me back towards driving Barra Falcons - now those were cheap and easy to repair.
The S60's transmission's starting to play up and the radiator's slowly starting to leak plus the timing belt kit's due soon, so it's a fine balance. The car's already had $5000 spent on it in the last 5 months (getting suspension components replaced, leaks fixed, brakes, rotors, etc... If only I didn't like it so much.

nut3y · Jun 2, 2024

The PCV system isn't too much of a PIA. I've had luck (mostly) unclogging a PCV system with some carb cleaner and a vacuum. Don't see why the occasional spray wouldn't help in preventing buildup.