starting problems

notgoinganywhere · Post by **notgoinganywhere** » 02 Jan 2006, 15:33

So, over the past year or so, my wife's 1994 850 non-turbo with 170000 miles on it refuses to start. She would just keep trying over teh course of a half an hour or leave it over night. Then it would start right up like nothing is wrong with it. That is, until this morning, when I woke up to find a note that said "volvo won't start." The battery is good, starter engages and turns the engine (somewhat), there is fuel pressure, and spark (i think).

Weak starter?

My wife also says that the engine will "cut out" while driving (5spd, in gear round 2k-3k rmps). Though that is appearently rare.

any ideas would be appreciated.

jeff

White850Turbo · Post by **White850Turbo** » 03 Jan 2006, 06:24

Next time it doesn't start, have her put the key in the ignition and turn it to position II while you have the carpet in the trunk up listening for the fuel pump. If it doesn't come on, report back and I'll show you how to determine if the relay is at fault. If it does come on, the problem of course lies elsewhere. I'd start by checking fault codes if the fuel situation is found to be a-ok.

notgoinganywhere · Post by **notgoinganywhere** » 03 Jan 2006, 13:32

so this is where I am at:
I have fuel pressure, spark to all plugs and a good coil, the starter is good.
I have yet to get it started again. It is just does not want to fire.
So I think I can rule out the ignition system.
I can rule out the fuel pump since I have pressure.
The engine is not throwing codes

So what is left?
Injetors? what could cause all of them to fail at once?
ECM?
Any wires that go inbetween?
any safty switches (like an oil safety switch)?

jeff

notgoinganywhere · Post by **notgoinganywhere** » 03 Jan 2006, 21:23

What's the best way at getting at the ECU?

Jeff

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 03 Jan 2006, 23:27

Don't know why you would want to get to the ECU, but here's the info:
It is in the black box right in front of the overflow tank for the radiator fluid. It has a lid that comes off and it contains 2 computers...one for the transmission and the other for Engine management. I believe the one closest to the engine (Bosch?) is the ECU you'r looking for. To take it out, make sure your key is OUT of the ignition (This is a MUST) and then slide the metal locking handle from one side to the other, over the top of the ECU...this lifts it out and then you can just pull it out. If you are trying to find another ECU to replace yours, they have to be the EXACT same one...sometimes they are for sale on eBay...make sure the last 3 digits of the numbers on the left side of the ECU matches....for instance for my '98 S70 T5, the last 3 numbers are 607. Here is a good reference for the ECU's and their numbers, although from a sales site that upgrades them: http://www.ipdusa.com/ProductsCat.aspx? ... RootID=629

S70 Guy · Post by **S70 Guy** » 05 Jan 2006, 22:47

I have a 93 850 GLT , had a simular problem. I noticed when trying to start there was no gas /exhaust fumes at the tail pipe. figured no gas was geting to the engine. Knocked on the tank with a hammer while somonelse tried to start it. Nothing, Then I realized it had been some time since I changed the Fuel Filter. gave the fuel filter a few good hits with a hammer, Started right up. I was at 172K, last change was at 119K. Ordered a new filter from EEuroparts runs fine now.

eikeeg · Post by **eikeeg** » 17 Feb 2006, 11:53

Had similar problem - replaced several parts - found to be antenna ring ( plastic surround of ignition key barrel ) it links with the key and deactivates immobiliser if working properly. Known fault. Cheap to replace - give it a try.