Hey there,

I just bought a 1989 740 GL and it will turn over but not start, it wants to, but just can't quite get there. I haven't owned a Volvo in 20 years so I relatively new to these motors. The guy I bought it from said a mechanic indicated it has a blown head gasket, but I see no evidence of coolant in the engine oil. I checked for codes but it came back 1-1-1. The previous owner said it was overheating and leaking coolant out of the flame trap. Any tips on where to start would be appreciated!

MD

 

check for spark, check for fuel delivery, check the compression.

 

leaking coolant out of the flame trap?

check ignition system, too. bad hall sensor will cause no-start.

timing belt, too.

 

89 non-turbo should be LH2.4 or Regina, and should use a CPS rather than a hall sensor.

 

Coolant in the oil is just one possible sign of a bad HG. Still, I wouldn't go on some mechanic's word!
Coolant out of the flame trap is new to me.
What does it do when you try to start it?
Starting with a compression test is the best way to go--it would show a blown HG and it is easy to do...