Hello folks,

I purchased my first Volvo yesterday. It is an 89 240dl wagon with 130k.
It has in the last 24 hours developed a stalling problem. After driving for a while (typically a short distance) the car will stall. It may also stall on startup and refuse to restart.

I am rather familiar with the Bosch L-jetronic fuel injsection as I have owner several Datsun Z cars in the past (I still own a 72 240Z, but it is carbed). I realize the variation on the 89 is different, so i do have a bit to learn.

To me the issue seems to be a faulty fuel pump or fuel pump relay. The reason I say this is as follows.
When starting the car, I noticed that upon turning the key to the "on" position I can hear a hum. I assume this is a fuel pump priming the rail. If I DO hear this, the car will start without issue. However, after stalling, I do not hear the prime and I will not until the next time the car starts. This leads me to believe that one part (probably the relay) is beginning to die. As it heats it fails, but it will work again given an amount of time.

I have reviewed the EXTENSIVE maintenance documents from the previous owner and it seems that the fuel pump relay does go out every 2-3 years. The previous owner did take it to the dealer for EVERY repair. Strangely the last two times the relay was replaced, the dealer also replaced the AFM in conjuntion with this issue. I cannot for the life of me see how this would be necessary.

I figure I'll start with a new relay, and if that works I'll just keep a spare in the glove box.

Do I seem to be on the right track?

Your comments are appreciated,
Wayne Lousteau