1998 V70 XC has gone to a new owner

[scot850]

Well at least one of the 3 Volvos had to go (according to the big boss) and the oldest had to go. It was a real pain most of the time, but it did run/drive by far the best of the 3 Volvos we have. Car was virtually re-built and went to a young lady who really wanted the car. We are all sorry to see it move on, now if I can only get the 2000 V70R to run long enough without breaking, maybe it will be shown the door also!! Ah well, tomorrow looks like trying to find out why the front end is clunking again (and yes the front suspension has been re-built in the last 4 months and only 2000km with good parts. I suspect it is the IPD sway bar that it sticking. Apparently you are supposed to lube them frequently. Who knew!! Also suspect the tope rear torque mount.

Oh, jolly good fun these Volvos.......

Neil.

[MrPc]

Are factory sway bars supposed to be lubed frequently too? With what?

Thanks!

[scot850]

To my knowledge factory sway-bars should NEVER be lubed, and I find it strange that IPD sway-bar does need lubed. I always thought the point of not having lube is to stop them moving in the bushes. I remember a Volvo sage telling me that on 850's when they came out, the OE bushes were superb until they eventually failed. Replacements (Volvo OE) then didn't last very long in comparison.

IPD use a Marine grade Lithium 'sticky' grease. I pulled the bushes and used standard lithium lube as I can't find an easy source of marine grade. The bushes are worn, so I'll replace. Knocking turned out to be a loose sway-bar link top mount. Guess the mechanic at the dealer forgot to torque this up!

Neil.

[JRL]

Never lube.
If bad, ipd will replace the bushings for free to the original owner of the bars

[instarx]

IPD use a Marine grade Lithium 'sticky' grease. I pulled the bushes and used standard lithium lube as I can't find an easy source of marine grade.
Neil.

Marine grade lithium grease is available off-the-shelf at any O'Reilly's auto parts store.