1989 240DL Alternater--HELP!!

[aidinglemons]

I got this car last August and it was supposed to be in really good condition because the previous owner was a doctor who got regular tune-ups on it. When I got it inspected I found out it needed a new tire, windshield wipers, brakes, and brake hoses. The lights started dimming when I rolled down the windows about three months ago. Then it began having trouble starting with at least seven seconds of turning the key before it turned over.

Tonight when I attempted to start it, the car started, died, started itself, died, started itself again, and died. I finally got it started but I had to pump the gas a couple of times to keep it going. I don't have the money for even just the part right now. Can you tell me how long you think I have until it dies?

[billofdurham]

Welcome to Matthew's Volvo Site.

Your heading asks for help with the alternator. Why do you think the alternator is the problem?

Because a doctor owned the car is, in my opinion, no recommendation. I have known many doctors who regard the car as a tool to get from point A to point B. If it runs, great. If it doesn't run, put it into a shop and get it fixed. Their mechanical aptitude is often zero.

You certainly seem to have an electrical problem but alternator....not necessarily.

If it takes so long to start but the battery is still capable of turning it then the alternator must be doing its job. You need to start by checking the basics.

1. Do you have a check engine light on?
2. Have you checked for fault codes by using the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) unit in the engine compartment?
3. Ensure you have your radio code then disconnect the battery leads, negative first. Clean up the battery terminal posts and the connectors on the leads. Then unbolt the negative lead from the body and clean up the point of contact on the body and the connector on the lead. Replace them, negative last and ensure they are tight.
4. Check spark plugs and their leads. It may be that they need replacing. Check that all leads on the ignition circuit are tight.
5. Check that both fuel pumps are operating. You should be able to hear the main pump kick in when you switch on the ignition. The in-tank pump can usually be heard by removing the filler cap and listening at the the filler point whilst someone else starts the engine.
6. Check the fuel pressure.

When you eliminate the basics and still have a problem then start worrying about when the car is going to die but that is a question that no-one, not even a doctor, can answer truthfully.

If you need more help - ask.

Bill.