240 1985 OD light flickers on and off

raj7776 · Post by **raj7776** » 19 Nov 2009, 22:37

My 85 240DL has a arrow light in the instrument cluster that flickers on and off regularly. It is not bright and if I push the button on the side of the slift lever to shut off the OD it comes on full brightness. If I slap the top of the dash it will go out for some time. I am thinking a short somewhere in the dash, but not sure where exactly to look.

Post by **billofdurham** » 20 Nov 2009, 11:37

Welcome to Matthew's Volvo Site.

I would start checking at the switch itself. It is probably the original and switches do wear out. Then check the relay which is behind the centre of the dash on the passenger side. Again this could be original. On the instrument panel check the bulb holder for that warning light, looking for bad wiring.

Bill.

Tiki · Post by **Tiki** » 22 Nov 2009, 18:29

As Bill said, check the switch, then the relay.

One other place I would also check is the short section of wire where the Solenoid on the trans connects. I realize this is hard to see as it's under the car up in the tunnel where the bottom of the shift lever is. The wire for the solenoid on the side of the transmission is heavily protected from the elements. This short section of wire, about 2-3 inches is exposed. If it becomes damaged it will cause the relay to fail prematurely.

Post by **billofdurham** » 23 Nov 2009, 15:48

Thanks Tiki, I forgot that one.

Bill.