[Mike_Brace]

I promised a bit of guidance regarding springs. I have tried about six times to write and post this piece and have come to the conclusion I prefer 240s to computers - at least I understand them!

There are two standard rear springs available from the likes of Volvo or Euro Car Parts amongst others. they are:
standard saloon rear springs
standard estate rear springs

From specialists the following are available
heavy duty rear springs
cargo rear springs (discontinued?)
progressive rear spring (discontinued?)
lowering rear springs

The standard saloon/estate rear springs are idle for normal use and will restore the rear end to ride properly and eliminate that rear end droop. If you have a saloon that regularly carrries a little more weight (eg lpg tank) or you want a stiffer ride the estate springs are ideal.
The heavy duty springs are great for a car regularly carrying a lot of weight or towing. This enables it to maintain ride height better even when laden. The downside is empty bumps are more noticeable and under enthusiastic cornering the tail can be slightly skittish. Under load the ride and handling are excellent.
The cargo springs are a little stiffer again and I believe are discontinued. The progreesive spring is an ideal sprng for both empty and laden. On this sthe coils are unevenly spaced - when laden the coils that are closer together can actually compress till they touch. however, the remaining coils still provide normal type travel. They are made by Kilen industri ab part no.V7660. I believe they are discomtinued. If anyone can find out where they can be obtained I would love to know as they are such a good spring for estates.
Finally the lowering springs are intended for use with front lowering springs. If you want to carry anything (even passengers) in the car they are not very practical. Standard rear combined with lowered fronts are a better option. If lowering remember that the steering geometry will need resetting.


Mike