v90 Suspension and ride height

have just purchased 1997 V90 (960 estate) and the back appears
to be sitting down by about 1 1/2" or 35-40mm. It looks like it has sagged - the rear bump stops are clearly marked. Is this likely to
be spring fatigue or the self levelling units -- ride height does not
seem to improve after a short drive. Much lower than our 92 960
which has had an easy life. Views would be appreciated.

[Peter Milnes]

First check the shock absorbers for signs of leaking. If they are on the way out they will be showing obvious signs. It may be possible that the spring has got soft, but the clue is that the spring is softer than standard to cope with the self levelling. If no self levelling is evident then replace the shock absorbers. If no improvement occurs then you can replace the spring with a standard or heavy duty version. It is a single leaf spring of Composite construction which lies across the car width.

Your 1992 960 (if saloon) has two coil springs with load levelling shock absorbers. If estate, then it has a live rear axle set-up, the same as the 940 estates.

All the best, Peter

http://pic7.picturetrail.com/VOL188/...8/23744414.jpg

As Peter says, it sounds as if your (Nivomat) rear shockers need replacing.
They are available from either of the sources below for between £120 and £130 each.
Don`t even ask the dealer price, unless you want to take out a second mortgage!!!!

http://www.gsfcarparts.com/

http://www.eurocarparts.com/ecommerce/Parts.asp

Colin.

Thanks to Peter and Colin, I'll check this out
I had spoken to dealer and they figured a self levelling problem
quoted around £300 a side plus labour !!!

Thanks again.

Mike