1983 240...Starts fine, then nothing

bbobblack1 · Post by **bbobblack1** » 19 Sep 2006, 13:40

Hi...hope someone can help. I have a 1983 240 that has me stumped. When I turn the ignition, there is absolutley NO SOUNDS AT ALL. Then, all of the sudden it will start the next time I try it. It is an automatic transmission and when I "jiggle" the gear shift, sometimes that seems to help...but more often not. Could it be something with the starter, can a starte work intermittently like that? or possibly the starter solenoid? Any options from anyone would be much appreciated. Another thing...when I move the car back-and-forth while in drive with my leg outside the vehicle, this seems to help....coincidence??? Thanks to anyone who can help us,

Post by **billofdurham** » 19 Sep 2006, 16:13

First check that all your battery connections are clean and tight.

There is a starter inhibitor switch on automatic cars which will only allow the vehicle to be started in 'P' or 'N'. This switch is adjustable and has been known to move. It is located under the selector lever cover. Check that the inhibitor switch lever aligns correctly with the 'P' and 'N' marks. If not, loosen the bolts, reposition the switch and tighten the bolts. Move the lever through all the positions a couple of times to make sure that the contact pin does not slide out of the switch lever. Also check that the engine will only start in 'P' or 'N' and that the reverse lights only operate in 'R'.

Could it be something with the starter, can a starte work intermittently like that? or possibly the starter solenoid?

If the inhibitor switch is not the problem then the answers to the above questions are 'Yes'.

Again start off by checking all connections to the solenoid and starter motor are sound. Also check the engine to chassis earth (ground) strap is intact and making a good clean contact at each end. Continuity of the live leads can be checked with either a voltmeter or a test light. The starter motor itself can only be checked with heavy duty testing equipment.

bbobblack1 · Post by **bbobblack1** » 19 Sep 2006, 17:34

Thanks so much for the advice! This site is very helpful!

Ok, you were definitely on to something there. This is really something. Before I read your reply I took the gear shift cover off and low and behold...the whole area was filled with coins! Apparently, the last guy to own the car (or someone prior to him) thought it was a slot machine or something

. Talk about an "inhibitor" switch! I had to pry them out with a screwdriver they were wedged so tightly. Anyway, I have removed the coins and the shifter feels completely different (as one would assume).

I am going to check the inhibitor switch also now that you mentioned. I'm sure that is the problem (besides for the coin drop) because when I push the gear shift forward just a small amount the car now starts...thanks a ton for all your help!

DVolvoguy777 · Post by **DVolvoguy777** » 26 Sep 2006, 09:05

How much did you make? Enough to go to the JY and get a new switch? The triangle shape starter lockout/reverse light switch is fixed and held in by three phillips screws. EASY fix.

bbobblack1 · Post by **bbobblack1** » 26 Sep 2006, 17:25

Oh, guess I made somewhere in the $6-$7 range...not enough to retire early or anything and not enough for the switch, I don't think (which is broke by the way). But the car has had no further incidents (where that problem is concerned, anyway). Still have no turn signals and can't trace that problem...hope I can figure it out soon because I am beginning to aggrevate others on the road quite a bit...always "honking" at me and giving me "half of peace sign" (if you know what I mean. Any suggestions on the signal situation...they do nothing...no lights inside or out....the flasher is brand new. But I did put the wrong flasher in about a month ago and it made a loud noise (hum) and they haven't worked right since. The fuse is fine, too...any suggestions on this one...??? I am sure this question has been asked before, knowing the notoriuos "light problems" that Volvos seem to exhibit.

dannyboy · Post by **dannyboy** » 27 Sep 2006, 05:10

It was quite a "LOL" when I read your coin story

Back to your turning lights, do you hazard warning lights work?

I guess not as it is using the same flashing relay, but you never know.

Is there any other electric appliance/telltale/light that does not work properly?

Do you have a wiring diagram of the car available?