running problem

Mac · Post by **Mac** » 02 Mar 2007, 13:12

I am a new owner of an old car: a 1984 estate 240GL
This car ran like a top for 5hrs on the way home then suddenly began to lose power. It allowed me to travel at about 50kph and I got home okay.
At the same time the power dropped the oil light began to blink. The slower I went the less it flashed, faster and it flashed more. Ideeas?
Thanks, Mac

Post by **billofdurham** » 02 Mar 2007, 15:32

Mac,

Welcome to Matthew's Volvo site.

You have certainly kicked off with a good one.

Could we have more detail about the car? Engine size; auto or manual; mileage; last service date and mileage if known. Also would you include in your profile your location, as different country's models have slight differences.

Bill.

Mac · Post by **Mac** » 09 Mar 2007, 02:16

Hi Bill,
Sorry for the late rresponse, I've been away.

My Volvo is a 1984, 4cyl. wagon with 314000 on the clock.
I was definitely sreviced regularly up to at least 200,000clicks by the original owner.
I am in Australia
At the time of my problem the oil was full and clean, the car running at correct temp. There were no warnings or indications that there might be a problem.
What happened:
1) I think the oil light flashed for a split second shortly before the car began to slow down. Can't be sure of this as I had owned the vehicle for only a few hours and was not familiar with the instrument panel. I had been travelling on the highway at speeds up to 110kph with no difficulty for approximately 400klms.
2) the car slowed but did not stop. at first the speed fluctuated and I thought I'd just had a temporary prob-possibly something in the fuel
3) however it soon restricted my speed to 50kph but it got me home (a distance of around 100klms)
4)while running the oil light flickered. It flickered more brightly the faster i went and more slowly when I slowed down.
5) The next morning the car started and ran normally (as it had done when I bought it).
6) I left the car with my favourite mechanic as I had to go away again. I've spoken to him only briefly today, but may get his thoughts tomorrow and will pass if you like.
Ideas?
Thanks,
Mac

Post by **billofdurham** » 09 Mar 2007, 12:48

Mac,

I would be very interested in your mechanic's diagnosis as I have never come across one like this. I would also add that my 22 year service Volvo tech friend has not heard of it either.

'Limp home' mode was thrown about but is it auto? Normally that would only come in if it was a gearbox problem.

Definitely strange.

Bill.

Mac · Post by **Mac** » 14 Mar 2007, 03:38

Hi,
Current theory is dirty fuel/filter or faulty pump
Checking oil pump tomorrow.

I'll keep you informed.

PS its an auto but has no sophisticated computer system. I hope its just the fuel although the oil light performance is strange.
Mac

adrianpike · Post by **adrianpike** » 14 Mar 2007, 15:10

How's your wiring harness looking?