Hi guys im new to the forum but have been researching and reading threads on here for quite some time. I just purchased an 88 240 gl with 117,000 miles on it and when ive been driving for a while the temp gauge moves up as normal but never quite reaches the middle mark, is that normal? also the idle sounds a little off but stays at 700-800 rpm no problem what could be the cause of that? and what would be the best things to tune up on this car with this mileage? sorry for all the questions and thanks in advance you guys!!

 

IPD used to sell a small u-shaped wire with instructions that would bypass unnecessary components of the heat gage. I've used them on a couple of Volvos. Both worked well. I assume they still sell them.

 

my '88 245 is the same way - rarely does it get to 1/2 way...

 

The needle location is normal, sounds like the compensation board others say they bypass is failing. It should be dead center when up to temp. I soldered mine myself and it only reads below the dot. Maybe a hotter thermostat would get it to read higher like they mark. Sounds like a normal spot for colder climates like Sweden. I don't really know buy you can bypass that board easy if you have some soldering equipment.

Here is mine - https://volvoforums.com/forum/volvo-...g-57985/page2/

As for the idle and maintenance, when was the last time the throttle body, flame trap and oil trap have been cleaned? It should also have the third timing belt on the car, brake fluid replaced at 20k spark plug and air filter 30k... Enigne and tranny mounts might be worn, other bushings, tie rod, ball joints....