Volvo Repair: 1983 volvo wont start, engine cranks, fuel pump relay

Question
Glad to find you Phil.

My 240(DL?) 1983 volvo stopped running. One mechanic replaced some corroted wiring and the distributor cap. but it continued stalling. I took it to a cheaper mechanic. I believe he replaced a computer, I don't know specifically off hand, but the car again stalled after a week. Now I've been checking myself: The engine cranks and battery is good but it won't turn over. I've checked the fuel filter is okay. Spark plugs are okay. The fuel filter looks oversized and there is another cylindrical smaller piece next to it. Is that the fuel pump with a wire running into the gas tank? I would like to check the wires that attach to this cylindrical part but not sure quite how to check if they work. What step(s) should I take to get the car back running?

thanks,

Jeremy Desposito

Answer
Have your mechanic first isolate the problem to either no fuel or no spark.Too long a list of possible causes, but first check all fuses and replace them if they're old and tighten the contacts. Replace the fuel pump relay if not already done. Make sure fuel tank is more than 1/2 full in case the in-tank pump is not working. Check for spark at plugs and for power to coil and whether it's being triggered.