Suspension: V8 R-Design XC90 Suspension

[xelandrews21]

I have a 2008 XC90 R-Design V8 that has almost 90k miles on the clock.

It is going very well, but the suspension has gone a little soggy – I usually switch dampers at around 60k miles, for Bilsteins or similar, but there is more of a problem with the XC90. I could spend a lot just replacing the current dampers, like-for-like, but I was hoping for some further improvement in handling for the money.

I have seen various options, such as Heico, but that doesn’t really suit my needs. The car either runs with just me in, maybe with a passenger, or fully laden – 4/5 + luggage – touring across Europe, so the Nivomats work brilliantly to keep the ride height level. Also I have no desire to reduce the ride height any further than is standard with the R-Design, as a lot of the European driving includes snow.

So I was wondering if anyone has any ideas to improve the handling, or do I just go for standard replacements.

Thank you in advance!

[doingitsideways]

Another V8 in Manchester?!

Christ, I thought they only sold about 5 across the whole country, I'll have to keep an eye out for you.
Mine's a black '57 Exec. Wish it was an R-design.

Sadly, I can't help with your handling.
I'm with you with liking Bilsteins, but Nivos definitely serve their purpose.
Maybe go for Billies on the front to firm things up there, along with renewing some of the more common bushes.
Think IPD or similar do thicker ARBs too.

[binty]

Just wondering before replacing the shocks, have the front control arm bushes been changed as they do go soggy at that mileage and made a big difference to my humble D5.
Replacement arms complete with bushes are about £100 each from Volvo, and £12 for the all important new stretch bolts.
Just a thought before suspecting the shocks it is a known issue.

[xelandrews21]

Thanks for the responses.

I was concerned about just changing the front dampers for Bilsteins as it might just increase the understeer - stiffer front end. The stiffer anti-roll bars front and back sound a good option, as does renewing the control arms and bushes. A lot cheaper than new Nivomats!

[colinbos]

Also have a look at Sub frame bush inserts.

http://www.partsforvolvosonline.com/...oducts_id=9135

They make a huge difference to the stiffness of the front of the car. Ive done the on mine, as have a few others on the forum, and for the cost, they are one of the best additions you can do to change the drive of your Mota.

[hodgsoja]

Did you change the subframe bolts when you installed these? Just wondering if re-using the existing with a liberal dose of threadlock will suffice?

cheers

[gmonag]

You should use new bolts, approx £28 for four. You could reuse the old ones with new threadlock, but for peace of mind I decided not to. Your call.

[colinbos]

Originally Posted by hodgsoja

Did you change the subframe bolts when you installed these? Just wondering if re-using the existing with a liberal dose of threadlock will suffice?

cheers

I must admit, I didn't, but I haven't had any issues either since they where done over 6 months ago. Something to bere in mind.