Volvo: 1988 Volvo 760 GLE 2.8 V6-Engine starts but wont run, volvo 760 gle, genuine volvo

Question
Jimmy:

I took my 1988 Volvo 760 GLE V6 to a local mechanic to repair an engine head gasket.  I purchased genuine Volvo replacement gaskets which were installed.  The mechanic told me that the engine had been tested and ran well for several hours.  I was then told that I needed a new fuel pump because the engine started but refused to run.  I purchased the new fuel pump which was installed.  Now, I am told that I need a new computer.  The car did not have these problems before I took it in for repair.  Am I being taken?  What can I check?  Is there a pattern I can follow to determine the problem?

Thank you.

Answer
Hello Albert! There are so many possible causes for that problem. Did the car run before you took it for the repairs? If so, I may be something he did. The engine may not be timed properly. Why was the head gasket replaced? Is there spark present? Is there good fuel pressure? Is the timing ok? These are some of the questions you need to ask your mechanic. These cars can be very tricky to figure out. You may want a local Volvo technician to check it.

Jimmy