1985 240 DL -- need help please

MayGirl · Post by **MayGirl** » 20 Jun 2006, 20:13

Running fine however when I used the turning level last week it made a loud "EEEERRRRGG" noise lighting up all the warning lights. Turn signal lever finally stopped working all-together (but the hazard button/actual lights still work) but the alternator warning light would glow (not always full brightness) and most of the other warning lights don't work now: i.e. they do not go on when I turn the car on, rather, just the overdrive arrow is lit (even though the button is not depressed).
The batter was corroded so I cleaned it up. But still all of the above (minus turn signal lever working/making noise) is happening. Alternator belt is totally fine. What's up? Fuses seem fine. Argh.
I really can't afford to pay $135/hr at my local volvo repair shop...
Any help is greatly appreciated!

Post by **billofdurham** » 21 Jun 2006, 12:37

Are you sure it said EEEERRRRGG and not AAAARRRRGG? Sorry I have a warped sense of humour!

Sounds like you could be needing a new turn lever. Try disconnecting the plug from the back of the lever and see if it sorts out any of the other lights.

You will need to remove the cowling from around the steering wheel to get to the plug. It is some time since I owned a 240 but my memory says that there should be about 4 screws holding the cowl together. When you get inside the cowl you may have to take the turn lever out to get the plug off the back of it. If this fixes the other lights re-connect the plug and see if it causes the problems again before dashing out to buy a new one. If it does not fix the other lights keep us informed for more help.

Bill.

MayGirl · Post by **MayGirl** » 21 Jun 2006, 16:53

Hi Bill!
Oh, no, it was indeed an EEEERRGGG.
But I found up what was the problem (but then have an additional question if you don't mind) -- the wire to the alternator was loose AND the fuse for the instruments was busted (the noise must have been from the final blow).
Now all is running as they should be.

However I just went to kragen to check the battery and alternator: the battery is a-okay but the alternator was reading 13.7 The guys said it should be at least 14 but that i should get a second reading somewhere else to double-check. If it's sub-14 on the second try do i really need to get a new alternator? I'm a poor grad student and any cash-moola I have is stretched pretty thin...thoughts?

wojeepster · Post by **wojeepster** » 21 Jun 2006, 18:23

13.7 should be ok. Check it with headlights on to make sure it is still charging but I think you will be alright.

MayGirl · Post by **MayGirl** » 21 Jun 2006, 22:09

Will do.
Thanks so much!