Dear smfree,

Hope you're well. The part numbers you provide - 1346788 (distributor cap) and 1346797 (distributor rotor ["arm" in Volvo-speak]) - are correct, according to Volvo VADIS (the superseded Dealer parts/service database) for a distributor mounted at the back of the camshaft. The best tool to remove/install a distributor cap is an 8mm ratcheting box wrench. Your description of the state of the distributor cap and rotor - black "gunk" and burned contacts - is consistent with that of parts at or beyond the end of their service life.

As to the sparkplugs, the Volvo part number for a four-unit sparkplug kit (270746) also is correct (Part #1367528 is for an individual sparkplug). For plugwires, the part number you supplied, is correct. You might want to line-up the axis of the plug wire cap with the axis of the plug and push straight down. The wire should "snap" onto the plug's stud.

If you disconnected the negative battery cable from the negative battery terminal, you cleared the fuel/ignition system computer's settings. It will take a few miles for the computer to "re-learn" things. The idle should smooth-out in due course. Even so, I'd inspect the idle air control valve. It likely is dirty. Clean it, per this site's FAQs.

Flush the automatic transmission fluid (ATF) per the FAQs. If the in-service ATF is other than a clear, rosy red, flush first with Wal-Mart brand ATF and drive for 1,000-1,500 miles. Then, re-flush with Mobil 1 or any similar synthetic ATF. The system holds just shy of nine quarts, so buy at least 10 quarts.

As to oil filters, a Mann filter (#917) will work properly. I use 10/30 oil Mobil 1. Others might recommend a 5/30 or a 10/40, depending on whether the car will spend most of its time where average ambient temps are low or high.

Hope this helps.

Yours faithfully,

Spook

p.s. I'm still being asked to complete letter-based captchas, EVEN WHEN I WANT TO EDIT SOMETHING I POSTED 30 SECONDS AGO. I'm properly logged-in. WHAT GIVES?