I have a 1992 240 GL, which for the most part, is in good shape. However, whenever it rains I have trouble getting it started. Everything sounds like it should, and the car tries to start, it just won't catch. Sometimes if I keep holding the starter on it will eventually crank, but I need to figure out why its doing this. Also, when it does this it has trouble staying started until the temperature reaches a certain point, and then its fine. I know that water is getting in somewhere but I was just curious if anyone knew where it might be so it could save me some of the trouble of looking for it.

 

could be old plug wires, or rotor cap. Sometimes you can look under the hood in the dark while it's running and see stray voltages, a sure sign you need a tune up.

 

Does this only happen when it rains out?

Then like soundmiami mentioned, it's likely plug wires and/or cap & rotor. See response #3 to this thread for more detailed diagnosis procedure.
https://volvoforums.com/forum/volvo-850-16/intermittent-vary-hard-start-27197/

BTW: Please don't use terms like "catch"! I cringe every time I hear that; your engine doesn't catch anything! It cranks when you turn the starter on and then (hopefully) it runs (or it doesn't, as in this case....)

 

Thanks, I'll check on all of that to see if any of it comes up as the source of the problem, and yes it only happens when it rains heavily.
My apologies Gdog, thanks for the tip. I'll try to keep my terminology proper in the future.

 

For crying out loud, no apologies necessary; I was just ranting!

Try my suggestion in the other thread with the spray bottle of water; may help you isolate it to either the plugs wires or the cap/rotor. I would replace both anyway if they're due...

Let us know what you find.

 

Hi everyone, I kinda have the same problem. Mine started after I had to replace my distributor. After replacing it car has a hard time starting, I have to hold the key in the start position until it starts. I checked and adjusted the timing and it hasn't been right since. I plan on replacing the starter to check if thats the problem. Is there anything else I can check before doing it. I appreciate any assistance.

 

Sorry I forgot to mention that the car is a 1986 740GLE. If this is not the right forum, please accept my apologies.

 

So changing the cables worked. In fact I could actually see where the spark plug wire had worn through. Thanks for the advice

 

Good deal; glad to hear you're firing on all cylinders again!