My 1989 760 turbo wagon is incredibly hard to start when cold outside (-15 c). Once it starts it idles steadily but quite slowly. No problem starting in warmer weather or after the car has been running for a while. Any ideas?

I have been dealing with this problem for a long time with my 86 740ti Im pretty sure i know what it is i just dont feel like busting my knuckels right now to get in there and fix it, my wire harness shorted out and i have to replace everything along the lines and that was the only item i did not replace, unfortunally i believe it is called the ETC sensor it should be below from front to back the 3rd injector going straight into the head. Not easy to get to or get loose. Will also cause your gas milage to get all screwy too. So i would deff recomend you check and replace that sensor down there.
Good Luck

Did some checking around the FAQ on the topic of sensors. I think we are on the right track. The engine coolant temperature sensor (ECT) looks like a likely suspect. The cost is not too $$$, about $42 Cdn. I will also clean out the air control valve (ACV) and throttle body while I'm at it. I'll start by checking the level of coolant first. I remember owning a Trooper that would surge continuosly at idle when warmed up. The coolant was down by less than a litre/quart, just enough to interfere with the proper operation of the sensor.

My brothers 1987 760 TI had the same sort of troubles. It turned out to be the Hall sensor. Incase you haven't heard of if check the archives or the 700 FAQ. LOTTA info there, I simply replaced the distributor cause its a much easier fix than switching the damn sensor you'll see what I mean.

Just trying to help out fellow Volvo owners with my knowledge

Shawn T.

I have the same problem. I'll be watching this post. I have eliminated fuel pressure being a problem. There is an ECT sensor that could be the problem...see the FAQ on sensors. It's a big pain.
bob

I have the same problem. I'll be watching this post. I have eliminated fuel pressure being a problem. There is an ECT sensor that could be the problem...see the FAQ on sensors. It's a big pain.
bob