I have a 1990 740 non-turbo Volvo Wagon with 256,000 miles on it. First time the engine is started in the morning, regardless of the outside air temperature, the starter motor has to crank over excessively long before the engine starts. The next time I start the engine, and throughout the day no matter how many hours between start ups, it starts normally. Once the engine starts it runs smooth at all speed and under all loads. In July 2011, I installed 4 Bosh Platinum Spark Plugs, new distributor cap, rotor and ignition wires, including a coil wire, all were purchased from a Volvo dealer. The car has a Regina Ignition System. There is 26,000 miles on the parts. I just replaced the ignition wires again, but not the coil wire. To me, it sounds like I'm having a fuel problem. I would appreciate your thoughts on how to solve this problem?

 

Most likely your problem is the Coolant Temp. Sensor. It is located under the intake manifold toward the back of the head. It tells the computer what the temp is and the computer enriches the fuel accordingly.

Your battery should be tested for a full charge, in fact I'd do that first.
I'd also get rid of those Bosch Platinum Plugs, get some copper NGKs for a $1 a piece, they work much better in these cars.

 

The battery is fully charged and the starter cranks fast. Thanks for suggesting replacing the plugs with NGKs plugs. Is there a way to check the Coolant Temp Sensor?

 

There was a technical service bulletin that applied to the 740 that alleviated such symptoms. I believe the TSB was to re-wire the cold start injector so it doesn't come on until the starter is engaged. I'm not sure if it covers your year & model. A quick search yielded this:

https://volvoforums.com/forum/volvo-...en-cold-40640/