1. check kick down cable
2. perform flush as decribed in 700/900 FAQ (applies to your tranny as well)
3. get a new mechanic that knows Volvo's and a second opinion.
4. Definitely stay away from the transmisssion shops and Volvo dealers.

I agree with you, do not spend any money till you know what's going on. That tranny is considered bullet proof. They are rarely rebuilt for that reason and also because they are plentiful and inexpensive from the wreckers. Most bricksters put in a used one in the rare event of failure.

Another thought, it may not be the transmission at all. Under certain conditions if engine cannot output enough power to increase the RPM's you then keep pushing down on the pedal. This has the effect of keeping car in a lower gear because the kick down cable is activated. So the problem could be the engine. This has fooled more than one person including me. Easing off on the pedal may have allowed a shift.

Did you seem to have normal power as you accelerated to that 15mph barrier? What rpm did you reach? In any event you should have been able to go much faster than 15 in 1st and over 40mph in 2nd.
--
David Hunter

Just like Greg, I have also heard the same things about Volvo trans... they're supposed to be "rock crushing" tough. You might want to take your car to a GOOD volvo mechanic, since your taking it to a mechanic anyways have it looked by someone who will know your car the best and specializes in your car. Don't forget to check the transmission oil in your car after a good 30 min. of driving, to make sure it filled properly! Take care, g-luck James.
--
Michael 'Street'... one AZ '85 244DL 185K miles

Check to make sure the kickdown cable is not intermittently sticking.
It connects to the throttle and down to the tranny. It is responsible for adjusting the gear shifting relative to throttle response. It is also adjustable by the turn of a screw at the throttle body area. Think of it like a bucycle cable. It is cheap to buy new and quick to install.

Make sure it has not come off the spindle at the throttle. Open the hood, take a peak. Chug at it lightly see if it feels sticky. It should be smooth and light feeling.

It is very rare that these trannies go like that. Tell him it will outlast his Honda ten times over. Unless he is a volvo mech, he is not familiar with the kickdown cable design.

I am in no means an expert, just a guy with two volvos that has been reading up a lot.

Greg Mustang
Ottawa - Montreal
Canada