Subframe bushing replacement

E_S · Post by **E_S** » 12 Apr 2012, 16:45

I need to replace the subframe bushings on my '99 V70. I don't have access to the special Volvo tool to pull out and drive in the new bushings, but I do have access to a nice place to work with a lift, most "regular" tools etc.

Do I have to drop the whole thing to replace the bushings, or can I just unbolt the steering rack from the subframe, drop it in the front first, replace bushings, then drop it in the rear and replace the bushings, then reinstall the whole thing? I don't have anything that can be used to hold the engine in place if I drop the subframe.

Any other nice-to-know tips?

cjbmustang · Post by **cjbmustang** » 12 Apr 2012, 20:38

i actually just did all 4 of mine tonight...there's a write-up on here somewhere. i did one corner at a time and i dont think it took all that long. undo the bolt, drop the plate, remove the "feet" on the old bushing. i actually drilled into the bushing's plastic "shell" and then used a torch and then pried them out with a flat head. look for the write-up on installation notes. instead of gluing 4 bolts together, etc, i just used 4 sockets that were the same height. you will know exactly what im talking about when you find this write up. it's a totally different car afterwards, at least for me it was. they were never changed and it has 283K on the ticker.

E_S · Post by **E_S** » 13 Apr 2012, 01:49

Thanks a lot! Yeah, I can see the old bushings being torn and cracked, I guess it'll make a huge difference to replace them. Will be doing the tie rod ends too, and I'm thinking about some new shocks. Suspect the old ones are the original ones after 190k miles. The car drives ok, but feels a little "boat-like" and not very tight.

cjbmustang · Post by **cjbmustang** » 13 Apr 2012, 10:51

i was amazed when i drove it after replacing them....doesnt seem as sloppy