I have a 1988 245 that randomly just loses power and starts stuttering and bucking. The reason I can't figure outwhat is wrong is becauseitruns fine after I shut the car off for a few seconds and turn it back on. The problem completely stops. Does anybody know what's wrong with the car??? Thanks!

 

Hard to say. But if the fuel pump relay (FPR) is original I would replace it. Sometimes old relays act OK if you turn them off then back on.

 

Yeah. There are a few things you can try. How long have you had this problem? there are many possibilites. Why kind of "Losing power"? I may have the same problem as you, my friend. My issue however is I can't get the car over 30mph and I haven't had the problem for over 2 weeks. When my car stopped starting I had the exterior fuel pump replaced. Your problem seems more progressive however, which leads me to believe your fuel filter may be clogged and need replacing.

edit: read my post.
https://volvoforums.com/m_67557/tm.htm
is this your problem?

 

It seems like it runs lean when itacts up, and until yesterday, it hasn't had the problem since the winter time. But since it seems like it's not getting enough fuel when it happens, I think the fuel pump relay seems like something to check out.

 

yeah. There all potential possibilites. However, don't waste your money for an $80 fuel pump relay at an auto store. Get it for $20 here http://www.fcpgroton.com

 

Thanks. I've been on that sight before and they have some really good prices, but I live in CT and get charged sales tax [:@]. Oh well, I'll still probably buy it from there anyway.

 

I had a similar problem with my 86 240 wagon, I tried the fuel filter, relay, even got a different computer for it, and to no avail. I finally found the problem by inspecting the electrical connections to every thing under the hood. It turned out to be a corroded mass air flow sensor plug and the pins in the sensor also. Unfortunatly, the pins were so corroded, I had to replace the whole mass air flow unit.

 

I'm hoping it isn't the mass air meter and only the relay because i've heard those are pretty expensive. How much are they used?

 

I am not sure how much they are used, I got mine through work, I work for Federated Auto Parts, and it cost me 125.00 for a reconditioned one from A1/Cardone. They are a very good aftermarket rebuilder.
I am sure you could pick up a used one for less than that. Just make sure you check the pins on the sensor real close. Mine had a couple that were rotted out about half way through.

 

That isn't too bad. Thanks for the help!

 

You are very welcome, I hope you have good luck with your car.

 

I had a very similar problem on my 1987 240. Found that the intake air tube between the throttle body and the Mass Air Flow sensor had some oil build up in it. When I would go around a corner or hid a bump just right the car would stumble and run crappy nearly dieing, then take off and run fine. Cleaning the tube and Mass Air Flow sensor solved it. If you open up the tubing and find oil residue in there thats your problem.

 

I never would have thought of that. I'll look at it!

 

Hmm, Thats a good thing to know. I will check that out myself.
Thanks for the tip.