240 Hot start/stalling problems

[jeffmaciejewski]

Hi all--

My 1992 has two problems and I'm wondering what's causing them and if they're related:

1.) Hot start problem. After the engine has been warmed up and is turned off, it won't restart until the engine has cooled down, about 30 minutes or so (depending on the weather). After 30-40 minutes, it will restart no problem.

2.) Midway during its warmup cycle, while driving, the engine will suddenly stall. After pulling over, it will restart (last time this happened the check engine light came on).

Here are the pertinent details: 135,000 miles, has recently had spark plugs replaced, as well as rotor and distributor cap and flame trap.

Any thoughts?

Thanks!
Jeff

[oldschoolvolvo]

what is the code associated with the check engine light?

[jeffmaciejewski]

Good question, Mike--I'll have to get it and get back to you. Right now I'm narrowing it down to either the fuel pump relay or the fuel pre-pump (in-tank fuel pump).

[rgk]

Can you hear the solenoid click in the starter when turning the key to "Start"?

If so, this means that not enough voltage is getting to the starter, and it takes a lot to turn that sucker. More than likely it's corrosion somewhere in the wiring. You can clean your wiring, tighten your connections, check your battery voltage, and check your chassis ground strap. However, you may also have to check your starter solenoid, check your ignition switch, replace the heavy wires to the battery and/or replace the battery itself.

If you can't hear the solenoid click, then you're not getting power to the starter at all. Seeing as how it only happens when it's hot, it's more than likely the first issue.

[jeffmaciejewski]

Sorry everyone--I just realized I hadn't posted a follow-up!

I ended up buying a new fuel pump relay. It took only about 5 minutes to install and it cured my problem.

Jeff