Hi guys, I have done a fair bit of research trying to fix this odd problem I have with my australian spec 1980 242GT but havent been able to find a conclusive answer.

When the engine is warmed up to operating temperature it tends to get stuck at an rpm point. It also wont idle below 1000rpm.

For example, I am slowing down for lights and am in second gear. As I brake right near the lights I hit the clutch too. The engine may be doing around 1500rpm at this point, and when I depress the clutch the engine will get stuck at this rev point and won't drop. I usually clutch-drag it down to below 1000rpm (which I dont like doing) then it rises again to 1000rpm.

Another example might be if I accelerate semi-briskly leaving lights in first, then when I despress at say 2000-2500rpm, the engine will get stuck at those revs.

Sometimes when it gets 'stuck' it will drop revs eventually (im talking about 10 seconds or more) but other times it simply wont show any sign of dropping for 20 seconds or more.

I must add that when the engine is cold, the engine runs as it should - revs always drop quickly down to an 800-900rpm level.

I'm quite miffed as to what the problem might be. So far I have checked for intake leaks, checked that the throttle butterfly isnt sticking and it isn't. I've also checked that the mechanical advance is working.

This is my first Volvo and it is one of the problems the previous owner left me with. I'm yet to take it to a mechanic but I might have to if I can't nip this problem myself.

Thanks for reading and thanks for any help!
Zac