Lately, when I have been putting the foot down on the gas, the engine sounds more and more like a lawnmower. Just a sound, it sounds like a rapid pith-pith-pith, there has been no lost of power/stuttering/etc. Just the sound. Its only when I go more than 3/4 down on the gas pedal, and it seems like the noise is coming from the front passenger side of the car. What the deal with my Volvo? Thanks if anyone knows this wacky noise.

I think I know that sound. I noted a similar sound in my 1988 240DL awhile back. While under the car, recently, I noticed what appear to be small pin prick holes on the front muffler. I wonder if that is the noise of gas escaping the muffler via these pin prick holes.

My 1992 240 just started a similar noise and am planning to check the exhaust manifold as suggested. Might need a listening tube to isolate.

It sounds like it may just be your fan clutch. Check it to make sure its working correctly.

Good luck

Take a look at the exhust manifold gaskets at the head. Look for tell tale signs of leakage. You can even run the engine at the speeds and move your hand around or better yet a peace of TP and watch for blow by. I think you will find it.

Check for exhaust leaks at the manifold/pipe flange. With the engine running fell for pulses of exhaust near the flange. I retorqed mine a year or so ago and got nearly a turn on each bolt. Make sure the bolts are not seized before gorilla-arming it though.

mormit
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85 245DL 253,000mi V15cam 'Old and Rusted', 02 S40 'New Hotness'