850 - Brakes and Suspension problems (I got 'em!)

Schmitty · Post by **Schmitty** » 27 Mar 2011, 23:34

Vehicle: 1995 850 Turbo
Miles: 118K
Skill Level: Novice/Beginner

So next on my list of things to repair on on my are the brakes (rotors are warped in front) and the front suspension.
When driving, the front suspension (specifically front left) is very noisy. It squeaks when coasting (more noticeable at low speeds) and makes bumps and rattles at highway speeds. Potholes feel extremely hard. As you can see in the picture below, something ain't right with the suspension. I've been reading as much as I can here to try and diagnose the problem and have determined that I most likely need new struts. What I need is a diagram of the suspension and/or a suspension rebuild tutorial (I'm not getting any luck with the search with the latter)
I'll be doing the rotors and pads myself (front and back) and am wondering if an average joe such as myself would be able to repair suspension parts (or should I have a pro do it?)

Also, possibly a related suspension problem is my back right wheel went flat. It was rubbing on something. and the metal wires in the tire became exposed. This happened when temps got down to 0 and was very cold and icy (month ago).

ETA: I had a front sway bar replaced, can't remember which side, will update when it's light out tomorrow and I can look.

anmartin44 · Post by **anmartin44** » 28 Mar 2011, 00:44

your upper spring seat is completely ruptured! Also there should be about 1/2 - 3/4 in of thread showing above that strut nut! Please don't drive that thing until you fix that! It's dangerous for you and others and you're gonna ruin just about everything connected to that wheel.

you can do everything yourself if you have the proper tools and you know how to use them. (spring compressors, jack, stands, etc) I don't know what your budget is but i would be looking to replace just about everything in the wheel well on both sides.

Post by **jblackburn** » 28 Mar 2011, 07:00

Here you go:

Front struts

Rear Shocks V70

I agree; it sounds like your car is in desperate need of almost a complete suspension rebuild. With one side of the car jacked up, check for play in the front wheels from 3-9 and 12-6 o clock.\

Once you replace everything, remember to have a 4-wheel alignment done on the car or your tires will continue to wear out like that.

LRVolvo · Post by **LRVolvo** » 28 Mar 2011, 07:08

Had the same thing happen on my rear wheel. Simple and inexpensive visit to Autozone and had it fixed in 30-minutes. You can do the shock stuff pretty easily if all you have to do is replace that top piece.

Post by **pkc303** » 28 Mar 2011, 10:57

Well, the rear ones are easy. I've done the front, and I would call it a something other than easy. His needs a new front end.

Schmitty · Post by **Schmitty** » 28 Mar 2011, 13:36

So if I got these parts, is that all I'd need or are there more?
http://www.fcpgroton.com/product-exec/p ... ory_id/192

Post by **jblackburn** » 28 Mar 2011, 13:38

Take what they've got in that kit and order the parts individually, or give them a call and request that they use only OEM parts in putting together your order. Most of FCP's "kits" are cheap aftermarket parts that will last you about 2 months before breaking again.

Schmitty · Post by **Schmitty** » 28 Mar 2011, 13:43

That's disappointing to hear. They say in the description, "All parts are GUARANTEED OEM QUALITY AND FITMENT". Should I call to verify?

Post by **polskamafia mjl** » 28 Mar 2011, 14:34

Trust jblackburn on this. I got that same kit simply b/c I was in a pinch and needed to rebuild my front end before I took a road trip to the OBX. Use that kit as a guide but get OEM parts. CN90's tutorial for the front suspension is amazing, I used it this summer. And finally, both brakes and front suspension are something that you can do yourself. Just be careful with the spring compressors.

Schmitty · Post by **Schmitty** » 28 Mar 2011, 14:43

Advice heeded. I got all OEM parts using the kit as a guide also. My wallet is screaming profanities at me right now.

I know what I'll be studying for the next days that the parts are in the mail. Now to go dig out the 'ol bicycle to use that as my car to get to work.