Volvo Repair: Check Engine LIght - Starts HARD when cold, fuel pressure regulator, coolant temp

Question
QUESTION: I have a '93 940 wagon - non turbo. My check engine light is on and has been for awhile. I have tried to find a mechanic to check this and tell me what is wrong. I have tried to 'read' the codes but I have been unable to figure that out. The first time th e car is started in the morning it is very hard to start. I have to plant my foot and turn it over and eventually it starts, it acts like it is flooded (if it was carb. I would say the choke is stuck). After the dirst start of the day, there are no problems. My car sits at work for approx. 11 hours and I get in and turn the key and it starts. The fuel filter was replaced one month ago and it has new spark plugs. Is there a connector that can be purchased to connet this pre-odb2 vehicle to a machine and find out what is going on? I think it might be the O2 sensor, but I have no way to track it down.

Thanks
Warren Sanasac

ANSWER: Warren, reading codes are easy.  Put connector into #2 and hold button for 10 seconds.  Key must be in on position.  Read the flashes and write them down.  Example. 1-2-1, after reading first code, hit button again for 5 seconds.  do this until the original code comes back.  Now hold the button for 10 seconds.  Wait until its a steady red light then hold again for 10 seconds.  Codea are now cleared.  Do this for position 6.  What it sounds like to me, its a fuel pressure regulator issue, or perhaps a coolant temp sensor problem which its telling it to spray more fuel when it shouldnt.  Read codes and get back to me.  Roger

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QUESTION: I went thru the steps you outlined. I got a 1-1-1 from #2 and a 1-4-3 from #6. Those were only codes. I did get a fast flashing led when on #6 I had pushed the button the 3rd time for 5 secs. I have no idea what that means. I did the reset, but I still have a check engine light. I hope this is enough information.

Thanks for you help.

Answer
Warren, a 1-1-1 is all clear.  No codes on that side.  a 1-4-3 is an emmissions code.  Would have to look up code to know exactly what it is.  If it flashed, you did something wrong.  Read it again and hold it in for 10 seconds until you get a steady light, then hold it in again for 10 seconds.  Roger