Thanks for the response; I appreciate your patience with a first-time Volvo owner (got it three weeks ago!). The engine hesitate/skips a bit a higher RPMs, leading a friend to believe that the coil isn't in great shape (not doing its job at higher engine speeds). We took it to AutoZone to have them test it, and the readings were low, about 25% below specs on the primary and 50% on the secondary. (low on voltage or resistance...I always get my electrical terms mixed up). Anyway, the fellow at AutoZone (a guy I trust) said a new coil would make a lot of difference; hence, the idea to get a new one.

This brings to mind a question: are coils either broken or not, or are there various levels of working, meaning, will an older coil perform as well as a new one? I gather from your post that it's critical to put the same kind of coil in...can you point me in the direction of an explanation as to why?

I like your idea of going to a yard; didn't even think of that goldmine! I got a set of front seats in great shape for $30 last week!

Bob