I been messing with cars for long time and have a good understanding of cars and systems. But this one got me.

So this is how it started,
My wife drives 1985 245 wagon with very low miles. The car was harder and harder to start in mornings but once warmed up it was fine. One day I believe she ran out of gas and the car died.
I got some gas put it in and it did start and would idle but when put in drive it would die, same if I would try to push on gas it would die. What is strange is that if I slowly feather the gas pedal I can get it to go up in RPM speed as high as I want.
If I push the gas just a bit too fast it will die.

So I have changed Fuel pressure regulator, no luck. Changed Main fuel pump along with new fuel filter still no luck. I also tested the IAC and works fine.

Also this happens sometimes - I start the car it will start right up but will die after about 30 seconds.

The intank pump is making noise so I assume it works.

Other than that im puzzled what it could be. If anyone had a similar issue or has some insight on this issue I would appreciate your input.

Thanks in advance.

Luke

 

did you check condition of fuses,cap,rotor,spark plugs?

 

The cap seems like it has seen better days, would that cause the car to die ? It starts right up with no issues or hesitation. But I can get a cap and rotor to rule that out.

 

dunno it might.. need good clean spark anyway.i try to always use bosch brand cap+rotor. my engine still ran
even with a rotor like this..
https://volvoforums.com/g/picture/7897572

not very well but it ran!

 

missing or leaky vacuum line to the ignition control unit on LH-2.2 cars might do this. would rev OK in neutral, but have almost no power in gear due to the lack of vacuum advance.