Cousins:

On my '85 240 Turbo: I just replaced the OD relay, checked the OD solenoid on the bench (works w/ 12v), rewired the OD solenoid, and checked the switch on the shifter knob (OK). The OD still does not work, although I can hear the relay switching, and have checked the wire connector under the carpet for voltage (12v on and 0v off).

The dash lite does not come on - in fact, all the dash lites don't come on, even the illumination lamps. Any ideas?

I'm not sure about the indicator, maybe a bad ground in the panel since your other indicators aren't working? Have you put a meter on the wire at the solenoid to see if you in fact have +12v when the relay is energized?

Justin B.
83 244 Turbo

I replaced an OD solenoid recently + changed the fluid, too. I couldn't figure out why it still wouldn't work. I did everything right & checked it.

After a couple of days it started to work perfectly.

My best guess was that nice new fluid acted like solvent on some old gummy fluid that blocked the confined passage temporarily.

In your case, I think the lamps are telling you that the problem is electrical. I think there is an open circuit to the switch. You could try running a jumper direct to the solenoid lead. I think that everytime my orange arrow went out it there's been a broken lead in the shift lever + no OD til I got out the soldering gun & repaired the wiring. Some of the plastic jackets on Volvo wires turn into inflexible brittle junk with sharp jagged edge & wires subjected to constant movement in a rough environment are bound to go south eventually.