Replacement Struts S70

Post by **tom39** » 30 Jun 2009, 19:19

1998 S70 T5.
Looking to replace front struts and rear shocks. Looking at the FCP Groton site and looking for suggestions.
I would like to get something that would give a smooth ride, longevity and quality. Performance would be a plus but not at sacrifice of other.
Also if Im in there, what do you think of replacing springs too? Do the springs go bad? Got 161k/mi @ 11yrs old.

Thanks
TOM G.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 30 Jun 2009, 20:22

Unless you want to get radical or lower the car the springs will outlive the car. I have been using the Bilstien Touring Class shocks and struts as I replace my suspension components. The ride is a tad harsher than OEM but the handling is great. If you want a cushy ride and are less concerned with handling go with the OEM Sachs/Boge components. Try Darrell Waltrip Volvo if you want the OEM parts.

...Lee

Post by **tom39** » 30 Jun 2009, 20:43

Thanks Lee.

What is your thoughts on the Bilstein HD struts/shocks? Have you drove a volvo with them installed? I was reading reviews and it seems like people like them. I'm thinking that the ride will suffer though.

Thanks
TOM G

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 01 Jul 2009, 05:43

The ride will suffer (from stiffness)... you will feel every bump...I would personally avoid them.

ChiNorm · Post by **ChiNorm** » 01 Jul 2009, 13:43

Bilstein HD is designed for the OEM springs, lousy results with aftermarket springs. HD w/ OEM springs is a bit on the hard side, but duzn't bother me.

Post by **tom39** » 13 Jul 2009, 19:37

Well here is my laundry list. I'm going with Lee's suggestion and chosing the Bilstein Touring shocks. I am trying to do it all in one shot.
Can anyone think of anything that I am missing and need to add to the order to do the job?

Shock Rear Bilstein Touring Class x2
Strut Front Bilstein Touring X2
Front Bump Stop X2
Ipd Heavy Duty Upper Spring Seat X2
Rear Upper Shock Mount X2
Strut Nut Spanner Tool
Rear Spring Bump Stop Retaining Pin X2
Front Shock Mount Bearing X2

Thanks
TOM G.

Post by **confused_al** » 13 Jul 2009, 20:40

I was just reading this post from VS
http://volvospeed.com/vs_forum/index.ph ... nt-struts/

HTH!

bigfinn · Post by **bigfinn** » 13 Jul 2009, 20:43

I replaced my struts and shocks last fall with Koni yellows. They offer a sporty ride, but are surprisingly smooth on bumps. They cost more than most others, but offer a lifetime guarantee. I kept the original springs. I had original shocks/struts, and wow, what a difference. Plus, they are adjustable. Found the best pricing from FCP Groton.