yes, your ignition switch has multiple outputs. there's accessory, run, and start. there's some outputs that are on in accessory AND run but not start, there's also an output thats on in run and start (this is used for the ignition and fuel injection systems). these all can be tested with a volt meter.

I concur with what fochs is saying, the fuel pump relay and fuel pressure should be checked out and verified thats all working correctly. if the car starts on starter fluid, then its getting spark (ignition), so it almost has to be a fuel delivery problem.

 

Just curious, this car has been serviced for it's entire existence at the dealership where it was purchased (perhaps a few minor exceptions) I may be giving credit where it isn't due, but, are the wiring harnesses fragile? Sometimes overly tight harnesses will friction rub, as will loosly secured harnesses?

 

1982-1987 Volvos had 'biodegradable' harnesses that did not hold up well at all. 1988's should have the updated harnesses.

any 25 year old wiring, however, is going to be more prone to issues, heat, oil spills, etc, age things.

 

Dealer serviced is subjective. Yes, it's probably had all the recalls done, and applicable tsb's and repairs covered under warranty. But the truth is people think a service is simply an oil change. There's customers that have had there vehicle at my dealer it's whole life, but they only do oil changes and absolutely mandatory repairs, period. There's way more maintenance then oil.

having a dealer do oil changes and having a dealer do all factory recommend maintenance is 2 completely different things.


PS the wiring on older volvo's is crap, I've rewired so many older volvo's.

 

Car is finally fixed, the problem was with a deteriorating wire under the dash, in the Fuel relay circuit, probably the one that is used in the start position and the run and Acc. position were OK.