1997 850 NA have to push on relay to get it started

BlackThunder · Post by **BlackThunder** » 02 Jun 2019, 05:37

So I thought my starting problems were my PNP switch but I thought I would try to replace relay 210 (alarm relay). I replaced that, hoped everything up and it almost started. Yay! Then it wouldn't start unless I push on the relay.

Starting from the key now involves me finding the right angle and pressure to push on the relay to start the car. Any suggestions on what it's going on?

Dustin

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 03 Jun 2019, 18:15

Sounds like either the relay or the relay socket might be messed up.

I would just replace the relay with a piece of wire with spade lugs on each end between the socket positions associated with pins 50E and 50F on the relay. Hopefully you could get the spade lugs in deep enough to overcome the issue. Not many people are out stealing 22 year old Volvos these days.

...Lee

BlackThunder · Post by **BlackThunder** » 04 Jun 2019, 20:24

Ha! That's right. I just want it to start consistently. I keep toying with the idea of selling this car since I don't have time to fix it or work on it. But I wouldn't feel comfortable selling it if it didn't start from the key.

Would adding some Grease to the contacts help? Is it called dialectic grease or something?

Dustin

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 05 Jun 2019, 20:13

I normally only use the grease on stuff that can get wet but I doubt it would hurt anything.

...Lee

BlackThunder · Post by **BlackThunder** » 29 Jun 2019, 11:22

Update: sometimes it works just fine from the key. Other times I have to monkey with the relay/socket to get it to turn over. When the car runs it is awesome but I don't drive it for free of getting stranded. Ugh, I'll have to try the wire for the relay.

What gauge wire should I use for the wire to replace relay?

Anyway, I love this car but it might be time for someone else with more time to care for it. As long as I tell the buyer the issue of the car not starting would it be fair to sell it? It runs and drives great. Or is that not ethical and I should donate the car to charity?

Dustin

BlackThunder · Post by **BlackThunder** » 29 Jun 2019, 11:44

Just watched Robert DIY's video. 16 gauge it looks like for the wire. I'll have to make a jumper and see how it goes. Thanks as always for all the advice. Still up in the air about this car. This was my dream car and so is the C30 that I have

Dustin

Post by **abscate** » 29 Jun 2019, 16:51

BlackThunder wrote: ↑29 Jun 2019, 11:22 Update: sometimes it works just fine from the key. Other times I have to monkey with the relay/socket to get it to turn over. When the car runs it is awesome but I don't drive it for free of getting stranded. Ugh, I'll have to try the wire for the relay.

What gauge wire should I use for the wire to replace relay?

Anyway, I love this car but it might be time for someone else with more time to care for it. As long as I tell the buyer the issue of the car not starting would it be fair to sell it? It runs and drives great. Or is that not ethical and I should donate the car to charity?

Dustin

Advertise as runs but needs work. You will get good DIY traffic since they can test out all the expensive stuff while still knowing there is work to be done.

BlackThunder · Post by **BlackThunder** » 30 Jun 2019, 18:18

Great idea, thanks!

Dustin