turned out to be the starter ... fortunately I only paid $10 for a PNP switch, used, on ebay. Got a bosch starter for $100 plus installation by an auto electric shop, not a bad deal I thought.

The car should start by jumping the starter solenoid with a screwdriver

Turns out dealing with this switch is a real pain. I recently had this problem on a 94. No crank without holding the shifter in just the right position to allow contact in the switch.

I had to remove the entire shifter assembly from the car, disconnecting one end of the tranny linkage underneath. I had to fight with the carpet and console surround on the passenger side to get to the wire connections. Once out it was obvious the switch itself is not easy to deal with as it is surrounded by a metal box. I understand you have to drive the shifter pivot shaft out to remove the box and gain access to the switch. From there it is a delicate task to remove the switch without breaking something.

Luckily I had a working parts car on hand so I just swapped out the entire assembly and replace a couple of linkage bushings and all set. I have a reparable unit now in case (when) one of the two cars fails again.

--
89 240 wagon, 94 940, 215K, 94 940, 141K

Dear GAcyclops,

Hope you're well. When Park-Neutral-Park (PNP) switch failure is suspected, repeatedly moving the shifter sometimes restores function temporarily.

The PNP switch cannot be removed without removing from the car, the shifter control unit. To do that, the shifter's "arm" must be separated from the linkage, which is accessed from underneath. A lift is not needed: a jack raises the car enough to allow access. See the FAQs for the procedure.

Note that the PNP switch (#3544164, about $113 at a North American Volvo dealer) used in 1993 and prior models differs from - and is not compatible with - PNP switches used in 1994 and later 940s, because of wiring harness format changes. Also note that the switch is secured by two metal circlips (#987173, internally-toothed washers). These can be re-used.

Note further that once the shifter's black knob has been removed, the cover plate - with the gear markings - is removed by compressing it. Those with strong hands can use "finger-power". Others will need a "C" clamp or a large water pump pliers. Protect the cover plate's edges with strips of duct tape. Grip the edge closest to the front center console and the rear edge (closest to the seats) and squeeze, while lifting. The cover plate's lugs will disengage.

Hope this helps.

Yours faithfully,

Spook