My '94 non-turbo 850 has over 500K miles. the all the dash warning lights flash on - not all the time, but at least some of the time while I have driven over the past week. Happens in rainy and dry weather. Sometimes it occurs when I hit a bump, other times when I an on smooth road. It still has the original bosch alternator; I changes the brushes abt 8-9 years ago. Has a new battery (less than a year old). and battery connections are tight.

I tested the alternator, and it is charging within spec both at idle, 1500 rpms and 2000 rpms with load. It does bounce around a lot in terms of the reading - does this indicate a problem? should the volgate be steady? The idiot lignt for the alt does not ever come on seperately - only with all the other lights. The belt appears fine.

I am assuming there is a loose wire somewhere - would it typically be a lead to the alt? When I changed to timing belt last september, I spun the alt pulley an there was some drag on it, and given it's age I'm thinking of replacing it - but would like to make sure it not some other spurious issues.

I would appreciate any help in keeping this old volvo running. Its been a daily driver ever since it came of the line.

thanks
mark

Over 500k, impressive!

I agree with the others, check the ignition switch.

Hi all - thanks for the suggestions. After being away for a wek & 1/2 I had time to trouble shoot the issue - and the winner is Klaus, with the loose alternator wire!

I too thought it was the ignition switch, but went I started the car to check it out, none of the warning lights came on when I turned ignition to position II. The small red lead was dangling by a thread and quite corroded...easy job to clean it up and reconnect. also saved me significant money vs alternator repair!

So I guess I can push the alternator a few more miles and see how long it goes!

Thanks again for you input.
Mark

Since it's all the dash lights, I'd also suspect the ignition switch first.

Another thing to consider is the electrical side of the ignition switch-- all kinds of circuits with dash lights are routed through it. At half a million miles, it is probably well-worn-- do you have a lot of keys on your keychain?

You can wiggle the chain and see if you can replicate the symptoms.

Good luck!

Good one!! I forgot to ask if the engine was still running when the dash lights came on. But I like your response!!
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Keeping it running is better than buying new

Depending on the amount of road salt, humidity in your area, check the two grounds for the battery(frame and engine). Then check the smaller wire from the alternator and make sure it is not chafed and tight.

I would always expect 'some' resistance trying to turn the alternator, but not any bearing noise.
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Keeping it running is better than buying new