Volvo: 1995 Volvo 960 2.9L auto, mass air meter, mass air flow

Question
I have had some rough running problems with this vehicle for about 4 weeks. I have had some days when the car has been driven it would not start. The check engine light was on and a code 231 came up. Today it would not start cold. It smelled of gas, I pulled the plugs and found gas filled in cylinder 5 and 6. I check timing marks and the belt is fine. I have no diagnostic equipment but I am knowledgeable with automotive repair. This one has me stumped. Any assistance would be great.

Answer
Michael,
The code you have is Fuel trim and could mean Mass Air Flow, or possible a vacuum leak. Test with a smoke machine for a possible leak, or use carb spray if the car will run. You may need to try a known good Mass Air Meter. A lot of trouble with intake leaks at the manifold to head.