Volvo 240 starting probs

sounds like you've checked or replaced all the ignition parts from the coil to the plugs, so I'd start looking at the PRE-coil parts. I doubt the ECU is defective... if it was, you'd probably get NO spark at all. Perhaps the fuse to the ECU is corroded? That might drop the voltage thru it enough to affect the spark. Try turning each fuse back and forth a little to "polish" the contacts. Also, have you checked your battery? And the connections to the battery? That could be the cause of a low voltage supply to the ECU and ignition...

One last thought... there are several grounding straps from the car body to the engine block. If they are corroded or missing, that MIGHT affect the ignition system....

Hi Perry,

I did not think of the grounds at all. So essential, so neglected. It's no wonder they feel lonely.

Andy

Hi,

Same here. On mine, water gets in the winshield strut (i Think) and drips down to corrode the fuse box, fuses and clips by my left foot. I can even see drips of water after a heavy rain dangling prettily from the wires, partially grounding or shorting several connections at once. Once I had the feul pump fuses cleaned and greased I had fewer problems. Still, I had NO problems after replacing my secondary feul pump and re- establishing a good ground. You may also want to check the relay (over the passenger side foot well) these also can get wet, especially if they are hanhing upside down. Lastly, what always worked for me before the actual repair, was to bump start the car... turn the key, let the pumps build pressure, turn the ignition once( just enough to slightly turn the motor..about a half second) and then give it a regular ingition. This bump start has to be done first off... won't work if you crank the starter as usual and then bump....Bump first.

On the wifes 89 240 gl we have to hold the shifter forward, north of park before it will start. Being this is the first Volvo we have owned I'm still lost of common problems. Hey the wife drives the hell out of it and is very happy I think I have to learn to keep it on the road...lol

Mario Did I mention I own a VW restoration shop. (Please don't hate me)

Just bypass the starter interlock switch, the harness for it is under the lip of the carpet behind the center dash console by the shifter. The manual transmission cars came with a jumper plug there anyway.

Too late:

Mario Gavazzi Vintage Werks: