I purchased a 960, completed a minor tune-up. Timing belt was just installed. So I changed the plugs (Volvo), changed oil(Volvo Filter), flushed coolant with Volvo, S-Belt, Air Filter (Volvo), and Fuel Filter.

I had to ride a couple of days without radio. Had to obtain code from dealer. This was great to listen to car for abnormalities.

After 2 days, the gear shifter wouldn't leave P, without pressing the infamous shiftlock overide button. So I went reading, purchased the PNP, and microswith from FCP (Volvo originals). Just waiting to receive now.

However, before I went reading, I decided to see how low, my tranny fluid was and flush the old stuff out, and renovate it. Wow, it was blacker than my oil. I immediately flushed the stuff by switching from P to D to R, several times. Each time I switch to P, It was easier, and easier to get out of P. After flushing most of the 8 qts of junk, I began adding Dexron III. Some more black came, then finally I saw red. Whew. I closed, and filled up the tranny. I couldn't believe how easy the gear shifted compared to before. Only gets locked about 20% of time now, if that.

My question is, how do I know which of the two parts was going bad? I intend to replace both, but should I replace the PNP, and see what happens, or just knock out both jobs?

Other ploblem is minor, and I really can't narrow it down. The brick makes this "Cre-e-e-eking" sound, no squealing, nor squeaking. Sometimes when braking, and/or turning, and/or going over bumps while turning. Intermittent, but only at speeds of less than 25 mph. From the papers, the front support (ball joings, and bushings, etc.) is relatively new, but there is no papers on the springs and shocks/struts.

What do you think?

 

Replace the Micro Switch first.

If the PNP was bad it would throw Tranny codes.

For the Creeking check the Sway bar end links. Also go over every bolt in the front suspension. Also the 12mm bolts holding the Small Square cover over the Steering rack. Where the 2 Bottom screws for the Splash pan go.

 

OK, I will double check this weekend. So, you don't think I immediately need shocks/struts to resolve this.

 

Check the other stuff first.
Also to check the struts push down hard and fast and watch what it does. If it comes right up and stops they are good. If it keeps bouncing they are bad.