ELECTRICAL PROBLEM; all the idiot lights come on and dim off

jderevj · Post by **jderevj** » 10 Jul 2009, 20:25

Ok guys, I have a 1986 740 VOLVO Wagon B230F engine and the problem is that when I come to a stop or slow down all the idiot lights come on and dim off slowly as I accelerate. I have
Replaced the alternator and I also have found one of the wiring harnesses that goes into the firewall brittle and stripped of the wire coating from age and heat. I corrected it by taping each individual wire so that they are not shorting out. I thought that would correct the idiot light problem but it is continuing. Along with these lights, when slowing down the power steering goes out even tho the engine is still running. Even with the new alternator it seems like the battery is not being recharged because the car won’t start after a few days of sitting. Any suggestions would be greatfully appreciated. Thanks, John

Tiki · Post by **Tiki** » 11 Jul 2009, 12:28

Hi John,
How about checking the belts (fan belts) on the engine. If they are loose they slip under load. This sounds like the altenator is not putting out enough when at ide. The lights then brighten up. Loose could cause the engine to not charge and the power steering to act up.

Tip: if it is the belts replace them. Driving for a extended period with them loose will glaze and cook the rubber.

Let us know!
Anson

golf300b · Post by **golf300b** » 08 Sep 2009, 15:57

S70, 1998, non turbo. I am having very similar problem. What happens is one-by-one, the following lights go on; the snow-gear arrow light, abs light, the srs light. The check engine light has been on all the while. Then the radio goes off, the lights dim and engine power slowly fades. Most times, the power returns, lights come back & one-by-one the warning lights go off. Then the radio returns.
Twice I have had the car to the shop - 1st time the alternator was changed, then the battery. The problem went away for two weeks but has returned. I just paid again for computer anaysis at volvo and they have no answer. No codes point out the problem. The check engine light and ABS warning light remain on. One last thing, occasionally, i start up to find that I have no turn signals working. This is fixed by re-starting the car. Could there be an ignition switch causiing all of this?