Need some opinions on 2004 C70 ride

robertg · Post by **robertg** » 13 Apr 2017, 08:30

I've replaced the struts, shocks and springs over the last two years.

Struts: Sachs https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/volvo- ... 70-553-058
Shocks: Bilstein Touring 19-029450 https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/volvo- ... 70-touring
Springs: Suplex 3546893

I have 16 inch Continental Extreme Contact DWS all the way around.

But the car is rattling and shaking over every bump. I think one of the shocks is shot and I'm not happy with the ride height on the back: to low.

Did I buy the right stuff for this car? Are there some better recommendations? I want as smooth as a ride as possible.

I know this is a convertible and some cowl shake will happen, it just seems that there is some room from improvement.

Thoughts?

Cees Klumper · Post by **Cees Klumper** » 13 Apr 2017, 10:52

I assume the problem started right after you replaced the shocks and springs, and that before the swap you were satisfied. Although I would personally not mix different brand and type shocks (i.e. gone with either all bilsteins or sachs, but not both) it sounds to me more of a problem with other parts, like spring seats or strut bearings, arms). I'd check out those really good. You can also check the shocks by just pressing on each corner of the car and seeing how it responds, bounce-wise. Good luck with the diagnosis.

robertg · Post by **robertg** » 13 Apr 2017, 11:48

Believe it or not the ride was worse before. I bought the car in Queens and drove it back to Jersey over the BQE and the ride almost rattled me to death.

I think maybe one of the shocks failed on me but was thinking while I'm back there to replace the springs.

Is there a major difference in springs and should I be looking for Heavy Duty or Touring or something else? what about used and issue with used Springs?

Post by **FLXC90** » 13 Apr 2017, 18:05

IMHO for the smoothest ride you want to return to factory standard. NOT touring not HD, those all mean stiffer or harsher. I would look for the standard spring rates and shock valving. Also, ensure the stiffest chassis you can get, look into strut braces.

+1 on spring seats as well. Go with IPD heav duty or XC90spec.

Post by **oragex** » 13 Apr 2017, 18:46

robertg wrote: ↑13 Apr 2017, 08:30
Struts: Sachs https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/volvo- ... 70-553-058

Don't touch the white sticker Sachs if you want a quality ride. The white sticker are the cheapest and lowest quality Sachs products. Look for the blue sticker Super Touring. Also get the older Sachs spring seat, not the redesigned one. And original, even used Volvo springs.