Last year I purchased a 1983 Volvo 240DL (1st Volvo) which is now having a problem starting. Since the problem started I have replaced the plugs, distributor cap and rotor with no change. We have also been able to confirm a spark from the plugs and battery is good.

PROBLEM: It originally was acting up by jumping/hopping down the road and then would run fine (This was during the winter). Then one day it would no longer start. If the car has been sitting a little (serveral hours to days), the first start of the key will make an effort to turn over the engine. However, it just does not appear to have either enough power or fuel. Other immediate attempts do nothing.

OBSERVATION: I had been looking into this being either a fuel pump or fuel pump relay, but upon tracing the fuel line discovered an unconnected hose. Fuel line comes from back of car to engine and then splits. First hose goes to the engine, but the second one wraps around the back of engine then over the top. From the top, it passes through a small round filter (?), behind the alternator and belts where it abruptly ends.

I am guessing this may be a vacuum hose, but not really sure. I have also looked all over the engine, but can not find either another sliced hose or connector missing a hose.

As you can tell, I am not that mechanically inclined on autos, but trying to slowly learn. Any advice you can provide would be GREATLY appreciated.

Thank you!