hello everyone i just recently acquired a 1984 volvo 760 turbo, i've already gotten alot of work done with this boat of a ride (im use to vw's). I really enjoy this volvo and have always wanted one. anways my time has come and now im in one.

the problems im having seem to be re-acuring with alot of other people, Electricals... Anyways the problem im having is that neither the gas gauge works, nor the temp gauge. and now just the other night my "brake" light turned on in the dash. the tails seemed to work fine when i got it, but now it seems like the tails and brake lights are reversed. my tails are my brakes and my brakes are my tails. normally i wouldnt complain about this but the new "brake" lights are incredibly dim and hard to see over the "tail" lights... thanks in advance for the advice.. here are some pics for clicks..




one nights boredom leads to polished valve covers haha

 

The recurring issues you're having with your "boat" are indeed common with the early 80's Volvos as a result of biodegradable insulation on the wiring under the hood. The turbos are the worst as a result of increased heat, especially on the passenger side, from the turbo. You should consider replacing that cone filter w/ a stock air box. If you look on the fender near the filter you'll see a hole where the original filter box drew in outside cold air instead of hot engine compartment air. The intercooler will reduce the charged air temp x degrees. The cooler the air is going into the turbo, the cooler it will come out and the cooler it will come out the i/c.
Your car is unique. For six months, January 84 to end of model year, the 760 turbo got the B23FT motor. Unlike the standard non turbo B23F, your engine has forged pistons, forged 13mm rods and a forged crankshaft. It is arguably the stoutest motor Volvo has EVER built and highly sought by rebuilders.
My advice is to get on eBay and buy the Volvo repair manual for the specific vehicle. You can repair the wiring but you need schematics to get it right. Trust me...put a little time and effort into the wiring as you did the valve cover..it's worth it!! I recently sold my 84 760T. Before I detuned it for the sale, it was dyno'd at 242 hp to the rear wheels. I smoked Mustangs on a regular basis! And, my "boat" dusted VW's with ease.

Had my share of wiring...

IPD sway bars front and rear, IPD turbo cam advanced 4 degrees, e-code headlights w/ HID's, 3" mandrel bent exhaust from turbo to tail, water/methanol injected, Bilstein struts and shocks, rear spoiler, e-fan...16 p.s.i. ona stock turbo/ic setup!!