im a new owner of a 89 240 ,first volvo and i love it. But, im wondering what a flame trap is and where its located and does it need periodic maintenance? any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.also thanks to volvodad for his info. the other day on fixing my brake light malfunction, it worked.

Yes, regular maintenance or it will bite you in the wallet. Not a hard job to clean it and not very expensive for parts, about $5.00. Simple tools such as screwdriver and pliers are helpful, but a vast knowledge of profanity will be required along with first aid supplies for skinned knuckles. Try searching the brickboard for flametrap, or go to tech tips at www.rprusa.com.

The flame trap is basically a breather tube for internal bypass pressure from your engine. If flame trap get plugged up with oily residue, it will not relieve pressure and the biuldup of subsquent pressure tends to be very hard on engine seals. You will develope oil leaks in a varitity of places. Best to learn how to clean or replace the darn thing.

http://www.brickboard.com/FAQ/700-900/EngineSealsBeltsVent.htm#Crankcase_Ventilation_%20A_Treatise

and the few topics following it.

Sam