Hi all, I have a 87 244 that is having some issues with the overdrive. It seems to only get stuck off when it's parked outside in the sun on a warm day (arrow light is on and pressing the button doesn't work). If the car is parked in the shade or at night there is no issue and everything works as it should (pressing the button works and it turns off/on). Would this be a solenoid and or relay issue or maybe wiring? I've done some digging around on this topic and haven't seen anything that describes this issue quite like mine where it works sometimes but not all the time.

 

Several things happen to make the "overdrive" in the automatic work. Overdrive is simply the trans shifting into 4th gear. Turning overdrive off, allows you to downshift to 3rd to use the engine to keep your speed in check in mountainous areas. If you don't need or want that function (most people never push that button) you can easily for free or very little keep the transmission in 4 speed mode all the time.

At this point you have a bad relay. You could replace the relay but there may be problems with insulation on the wire going to the overdrive solenoid (that grounded and damaged the relay) or the solenoid itself.

Or if you don't want to ever be able to downshift from 4th to 3rd again - take the solenoid off the side of the trans (2 bolts) and using a die grinder or dremel tool - grind passage, a groove to allow oil to flow between the two oil ports. (the solenoid stops oil flow to the 4th gear circuit keeping the trans in 3 speed mode) Reinstall the solenoid and the transmission will shift normally from 1st to 4th.

Take the glove box out, and the overdrive relay is mounted slightly to the left - take the overdrive relay out to make the light stay off.

 

If you dont want to bother with the drilling/ manipulation of current solenoid i have plenty of by pass plates available for shipping!
just mounts in with o rings included.

Goldenblock
L&D volvo parts Atlanta