C70 Convertible not stiff enough!

foneil · Post by **foneil** » 08 Sep 2006, 08:22

I just bought a pristine 2000 C70 ragtop with only 36000 miles. Just one tiny scratch on trunk, and the visors were loose, and needed a little Velcro! It came with detailed service records, including new Michelins and a complete four wheel alignment. But it feels sloppy. Especially at low speeds on imperfect roads. The steering wheel doesn't vibrate at any speed. But it isn't nearly as stiff as my '94 850 or my 98 V70. My Volvo guy can't find anything wrong. It's not a bearing, nor the struts, nor a motor mount. He rebalanced the wheels, just in case. There are some diagonal cross braces on this car not found on hardtop models, but they are taut and appear perfect. Does anyone find the C70 convertible to be less stiff than they'd like? Has anyone successfully added aftermarket stiffeners such as strut tower bars? IPDUSA.com offers one for about $150, but they have not responded to my email yet asking about their experience. Any other solutions, other than getting accustomed to a loose ride? Thanks...

owenmpk · Post by **owenmpk** » 09 Sep 2006, 23:14

The C70s are not stiff because lack of the roof. I have seen this spoken about on other volvo sites. Just keep the top down, enjoy the sun, and enjoy the tunes.

Owen K
96 850
99 C70

Post by **pfeener** » 10 Sep 2006, 05:50

+1 I think you're going to find this is a normal condition for the car. The condition is commonly referred to as "cowl shake" and is common among some convertibles, not just Volvos. The articles I've read on the new hard top Volvo convertibles say they have fixed this issue.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 10 Sep 2006, 06:07

I would highly recommend the IPD swaybars and heavy duty endlinks as well as the strut tower brace. This will tighten the car up. Forget the inside of the car brace (which is sold by some places) as all who have tried it said they felt no difference and it limited space for passengers in the back seat. If you don't get an answer from IPD by email...call them. They are always friendly and helpful over the phone. Good luck!