1990 volvo 740se not starting

Hi all, my problem started yesterday, car started ok first thing, I went about a quarter of a mile then the car started misfiring and then gave up altogether , I called out the rac he sprayed wd40 on distrubitor cap and leads and it started first time, he recommended I change the rotor arm and distributor cap although he didn't take them off to look at the condition. Anyway same problem has happened today, so I bought a can of wd40 tried it but it didn't work, so I took the distributor cap off and cleaned inside it, there was a lot of grime, put it back together still no luck.Why put the distributor in such an awkward place to get the bolts out? When turning the engine over it tries to fire but just won't catch, my question is did the rac man get lucky or should I replace the parts he mentioned how can I tell if they are worn although I've had the car for over 3 years and never replaced them, I suppose with all the rain we've been having dampness somewhere might play a part, and with the position of the distributor the rain seems to drip off the rubber seal on the bodywork straight onto it. Also is there a link anywhere to show how the ht leads reconnect just incase I got one mixed up:err: thanx in advance for any advice........

Could be a fuel problem. Dirt in the petrol. Over night settles in the tank then as it is being driven is then pulled into the fuel pipe or carb causing a partial blockage effecting the running. Jim

Three words: FUEL PUMP RELAY ;)

Is there a way to test the relay?

Hi, You should be able to pick one up from aVolvo breakers easily enough and swap them. When you have no issues then you know that the relay was the issue.. :) Des. . . ;)

Fuel pump relay - as you have the electronic injection system, you should hear the fuel pumps start up for a second when you turn the ignition on. It's a low whining noise, coming from underneath the passenger seat and the fuel tank.

To get at the relay, remove the ashtray and cover behind it, prise off the cigar lighter surround, remove the two screws holding it, then remove the cigar lighter and the shelf below it to reveal the relays. The fuel pump relay is the green one on the left at the back. Then have a look at this thread - at least you will be able to check if it's OK

Thanks everyone for your help managed to get someone in the service dept at work to check it out and they got the relay working with a little solder....

Result!