dso2001@yahoo.com wrote:
> This is a great forum and Ive been reading for tips and tricks, your
> opinions will be appreciated. Ive Googled this list for hours and see
> similiar problems, but not this specific one.
>
> 1988 240 GL USA model. About 2 months ago, wont start - cranks good
> but wont turn over. Tow to the Volvo independent and left overnight.
> He goes out and it starts, no problem, repeated starts all day. Says
> spark OK and voltage to main fuel pump OK. We go to pick it up - wont
> start. He keeps it and the next day same situation, cant make it
> fail.
> We figure it is 90% probably main fuel pump so I ask him to change it.
> Also FP relay. No problem since that time.
>
> Then yesterday, wont start. Tow to the general repair shop, left
> overnight. Today, he finds lots of spark, lots of fuel to the
> injector. Pulls plugs - they are fouled, empties something (I forget)
> lots of additional fuel. He also reattached tiny vaccuum hose that
> goes from firewall to top of intake manifold (?) Starts OK for him.
> We go to pick it up - wont start (!) Bring the mechanic out - he gets
> in and cranks for 10 seconds - it starts. No problems since, but you
> can understand our concern for reliability.
>
> Some misc information: Changed rotor cap and plugs 3 months ago. Gas
> was very low yesterday, added 1.5 gallons but still not able to
> start. Filled the tank after leaving the shop today. Yesterday, I
> could hear the relay click, but not the whirring of fuel pumps? Am I
> just not listening at the right time / place? Once started, the thing
> runs great, no dips in RPM or stalling.
>
> Ideas? AMM? Tank fuel pump? Sensors?
>
> I'll be bringing it back to the independent this week, but in the
> meantime am looking for ideas. Sorry for the long post, I didnt have
> time to write a short one.
>
> Don O in ATL
>


I'm starting to sound like a broken record here but check the engine
wiring harness, '88 is right on the edge, it may have the updated
insulation that doesn't rot, or it may have the old stuff which is
cumbling to bits within the outer plastic sheath.