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1988 Volvo Advice


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Axplosion
New User

Aug 7, 2009, 1:34 AM

Post #1 of 4 (1525 views)
1988 Volvo Advice Sign In

I have a 1988 Volvo 244 that hasn't been run in over four years and I need to know what has to be done before I start it. I did the oil change and I know about the oil and fuel filter replacements. I got the radiator filled and I think I'm almost ready to start it after replacing the spark plugs, but here's what confuses me. I've heard from some sources that the gasoline has to be drained and replaced, but I've heard from others that just topping off the tank a little is fine for now. Do you have any input?


DanD
Veteran / Moderator
DanD profile image

Aug 7, 2009, 2:13 AM

Post #2 of 4 (1515 views)
Re: 1988 Volvo Advice Sign In

There are a lot of variables that come into play with this situation; to many to mention.
What I suggest to do, is get a sample of the fuel (approx 1 quart) and have its volatility tested.
Most of the better shops will have what is called a Reid Vapor Pressure test kit. The test will tell you whether the fuel has gone stale or not. They’ll only need a couple of ounces of fuel too perform the test.
One other quick thing too do is have a smell of the fuel; if it smells like turpentine or anything other then gas; then its gone bad.
No; even if there is only a little bit of fuel left in the tank and that fuel has gone stale; don’t just top up the tank; drain out all the old and then fill the tank with fresh.
Sounds like a royal pain but you’ll be happy you did it; stale fuel could cause all kinds of grief.
Have a look at the bottom of the fuel tank; some of the older Volvo’s had a drain plug?

Dan.

Canadian "EH"






Axplosion
New User

Aug 7, 2009, 2:19 AM

Post #3 of 4 (1509 views)
Re: 1988 Volvo Advice Sign In

It could very well have a drain plug on it but the only problem is access. Even draining the oil is pure hell, the bolts are rusted over and you need to use Naval Jelly to loosen them. Is there any, dare i say, "quick and easy" way to do this?


DanD
Veteran / Moderator
DanD profile image

Aug 7, 2009, 3:25 AM

Post #4 of 4 (1501 views)
Re: 1988 Volvo Advice Sign In

There are not a whole lot of options.
You could disconnect a fuel line from under the hood and then energize the fuel pump; but you’ll need to know what lines and how to jumper the electric pump.
You could try siphoning the fuel from the fuel filler; probably won’t work to get all the fuel out, if any.
Maybe try disconnecting a fuel line that is accessible under the vehicle; which may allow the fuel to siphon on its own.
So no there’s no easy way; but like I said, if the fuel is stale get it out of there.

Dan.

Canadian "EH"










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