During a recent super cold morning, my battery seemed dead, so I decided to jump start it.
I hooked up the wires to a running car, and after about 30 seconds, I noticed smoke coming out of one of the cells in the battery...then I realized I had crossed the wires and hooked up incorrectly.

I replaced the battery, but the car will not start. It cranks wonderfully, but no pop or anything.
What did I do?

based upon reading between the lines of your replies i think you will be served best if at this point you take to someone skilled in car electronics.

During that time of 30 seconds before your observation, were you cranking the car over or just standing there while some one else did the cranking? Tell us more!

It might tell us what circuits if any were closed. One being that fuel "relay" circuit mentioned with the fuse. Check the fuse panel, as they may have moved it inside on this year car?

Do you have spark from the coil wire to the distributor?

You might have to jumper the pumps to see if it starts before or after looking for spark.

Phil

Hi Phil,
I had the booster car running, then connected the wires to the battery. Then I got into the Volvo and started cranking. Nothing.

I got out and saw the crossed wires, re-connected and tried starting again. The car ran for a bit, but it wanted to die--I had to pump the gas pedal to keep it going. I tried letting it run on its own--I got out, the Volvo stalled, and that is all she wrote. I knew I had a weak battery, so I pulled it and replaced it. Now the Volvo cranks beautifully but nothing happens.

First thing, check the fuses and keep your fingers crossed.
Dan

Where is the 25 amp fuse?

By the battery, spade fuse in a corroded white plastic housing unless it has been upgraded? Fuel delivery safety feature.

The car is a 1989 240 DL wagon. 280,000 miles, running like a top until ...

Look at easy 1st. 25 amp fuse. Then have to check for good spark and fuel delivery.

You now need a good automotive electrician, or a parts car.

It is definitely a learning opportunity, but yes, a big one perhaps. Unfortunately, bitter cold has the effect on our thought processes to replace them with the overriding need to get out of it and warm up.

If you give us a hint what year your 240 is I'm certain someone who has been down this road before will offer more specific suggestions. Take solace in the fact this car will be cheaper to recover from this event than any of your neighbors' rides. And thank your lucky stars the battery did not explode.
--
Art Benstein near Baltimore

Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them.