Hello J,

I really liked your story, it was full of drama and action. Do you have an ending worked out? I hope it's a good one. Who knows, maybe you'll write a sequel!

It seems to me that the problem is with the powerstage connector or wiring. Do you have a multimeter? A test light will work also.

Your engine has the distributor on the cylinder head right? Good, disconnect the battery.

First, download and save the Volvo Ignition System Service Manual:
http://oak.cats.ohiou.edu/~ridgely/Volvo_docs/Volvo%20TP%2031397-1%20Ignition-OCR.pdf
Second, go to page 50 and print it out if you wish.
Third, get out your test equipment and prepare your workspace.

Now you are ready to go on a "Writer's Strike".
Make sure that the following wires and connectors have ZERO resistance, any resistance is unacceptable:

1. Remove the powerstage connector (sound familiar?) and gently probe pin 1 to terminal 1 of the ignition coil. There should be no resistance.

2. Probe pin 2 on the powerstage with the negative battery terminal wire. There should be no resistance.

3. Remove the ECU connector, remove the terminal covers. Do not probe terminals from the front, damage will result causing further storywriting. Probe terminals through the holes in the side of the connector. Probe ECU #6 with Powerstage #4 AND coil #15. There should be no resistance at either connection.

4. Probe ECU #16 with Powerstage #5. There should be no resistance.

5. With the battery terminals off, turn the ignition on. Now probe coil #15 with the positive battery terminal wire, there should be no resistance.

6. Post back all findings for further speculation by us Brickboarders. Have yourself a celebratory alcoholic indulgence.

Good Luck!!!