Hello All,

I have a 1996 850 GLT wagon (manual) with 330,000 miles. For the last three years, I have had difficulty starting this car during the winter. This is due to the fact two or more of the cylinders have weak compression. The car runs fine during the spring, summer and fall. Eventually, I will have to have the engine replaced or rebuilt.

A suggestion my mechanic had for the winter months was to obtain a engine block heater that plugs into the cigarette lighter to keep the engine warm during the day while I am driving around. Once the engine starts and is warmed up, the problem goes away. With the recent cold snap in CT, I have had. trouble starting the car in the morning even when garaged. Perhaps a engine block heater that only plugs into an outlet may be the only option.

Still I would be interested in hearing if anyone knows where I could obtain an engine block heater, whether 12 volt or through a standard outlet. Thanks to all who respond!

Hugh

How bad is the compression?
I'm surprised that it's having issues starting in the garage. I mean, even with the recent cold snap, it's still got to be 20F or above in the garage, yes?

If you do choose a heater, I agree with Klaus that a device that heats the oil in the sump is better than one that heats the coolant. Kind of doubt you'll find a 12V heater.

Maybe there's another issue.

It is the compression. It has just gotten worse over time. When this problem first surfaced about 2 or 3 years ago (during the winter), the problem of difficult starting was only experienced when temperatures dropped down to the mid teens. Now, as soon as the temperature hits the mid 30’s the car becomes difficult to start.

Hugh

12V won't do you any good. If you really want a warm engine, you need 110V. There is a company that sells heater "tape" that you apply to the bottom of the oil pan, and then you plug that into an outlet. Google it. The folks in Alaska love it. They will also "tape" the tranny sump as it is hard to shift when it is -40F.

I hope you are using 10W30 synthetic. A 5W30 would also be better for cold starts.

Once the engine starts, it will warm nicely all by itself without any outside help.

https://www.fleetfarm.com/detail/kat-s-silicone-hot-pad-heater/0000000047517?gclid=CjwKCAiA1uHSBRBUEiwAkBCtzfQbco_Y_r5ZTfJxo8CHbyJadsNBY4OtlUQXCyq-gp8l6PaVsGkROhoCM-EQAvD_BwE
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Keeping it running is better than buying new

Klaus,

Thank you as always.

Hugh

Oh, there's also the chance of draining the battery with cigarette lighter option, but there is a solar charger for the battery (might use the cigarette lighter (!))
Solar block warmer?
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Farewell 'black manta' ('97 850) Hello 'rocket sled' ('06 V70R)

LilHelpHere,

Thank you providing me with alternatives. I hope spring comes early.

Hugh

You could start here. http://volvospeed.com/vs_forum/topic/157935-850-engine-block-heater-options/
There's a part number that appears to be discontinued, but might still be find-able or similar.
Also There's lots of Google hits on cold start
Also There's that aluminum tube that connects airbox to exhaust manifold, and the airbox valve fails. I had disconnected mine, but it's there's for cold starting.
GL
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Farewell 'black manta' ('97 850) Hello 'rocket sled' ('06 V70R)

Lilhelphere,

Thank you for the lead. I did call my local Volvo dealer with the PN’s listed for the engine heater. The PN’s had expired. At least I know have a PN to search on line now.

Hugh

LilHelpHere wrote "Also There's that aluminum tube that connects airbox to exhaust manifold, and the airbox valve fails. I had disconnected mine, but it's there's for cold starting." The pre-heater hose from exhaust manifold to air box is for a faster warm-up once started.
I don't understand the logic of the OP's mechanic. Driving around, the motor keeps itself warm. Seems like the thing that will help is a 120 or 220 volt plug in overnight. My neighbor in the Catskill Mountains drove an old Cadillac with a worn out 275K motor - he resorted to a block heater--and removal of the spark plugs to heat on the stove in the AM. Worked for him. -- Dave

That is quite “a dance” to do every morning to get your car started. But like you said: “ It worked for him”.

Hugh