I just bought my 1st Volvo a 91 240. It is not going into overdrive at all, but the lockout light is not on. The relay was working, but I could not hear the solenoid click. So I replaced the solenoid with one I found at the junkyard. It now appears to be working, but still no overdrive. I have also ran a hot wire directly to the solenoid so it is on all of the time and nothing. What should I do next?

 

If you can find one more solenioid I would try that.Just becasue it is clicking doesn't mean it is good.
If not then it is in the transmission.

Also check the adjustment on the kick down cable.
It shouldn't be real tight or two loose.
Make sure it isn't seized.

 

I took my old solenoid apart. If the overdrive works when fluid is allowed to go through the valve, can I take the plunger out, put the top back on and have overdrive all of the time?

 

I wish I could tell you.
I haven't messed with it at all to try that.

 

Thanks for the help. I took the insides out of my solenoid, put the top back on, and now have overdrive.

 

Thanks for the update that is good to know.