Suspension: new shocks for 850 T5R

[Cypher007]

i need to replace the top mcpherson strut bush, or something so the MOT guy said, and the lower control arm. anyway im thinking of putting some new struts on it at the same time. should i use the old springs, now nearly 18 years old, or replace those as well? also i have been told Koni FSD's are good, but there adjustable, and im not sure i want to fiddle.

[acshortt5]

Koni FSD's are NOT user adjustable. They have variable valving which is supposed to give a comfy ride on bumpy roads but firm up when cornering hard. From what I've heard they don't inspire confidence when trying to drive quick. Also, depsite what some might say, these shocks should be used with standard height springs.

Koni also do yellow sports shocks which are user adjustable with fixed curves of bump and rebound which you adjust using a single adjuster on the top (for the front shocks) and by bottoming & twisting the rear shocks. These shocks are best used with lowering springs as they are slightly shorter than standard.

[Cypher007]

just quoted £163 each for Volvo ones . what else could i use that would be ok, as in as good as standard or better?

[don kalmar union]

You might consider Bilstein's uprated but non adjustable dampers that I have in stock....more expensive than Volvo's own standartd replacements:

http://kalmar-union.com/parts/volvo-...70-suspension/

Would probably give of their best if matched up with a set of Eibach springs....certainly significantly more effective than the standard Volvo offering.

Best regards, Don.

[Cypher007]

hello Don,

im trying to get the car ready for the NEC show. took it for its MOT and it failed on near side control arm and mcphearson strut top. so as the cars getting on i thought, while weve got the suspension off anyway, replace the struts, antiroll bar mounts, and drop links.

[Cypher007]

also was talking to pfs and they said i couldnt fit aftermarket springs, as the t5r has special height springs. so if i did use aftermarket i would have to compromise between two different ride heights depending on the springs i bought. is this right?

[don kalmar union]

I dont think pfs are right on that.

The Eibach springs will fit the car and give a similar ride height to the originals.

I will beat their prices if needs be to get your business, dont forget my prices include VAT AND overnight delivery by TNT.

Regards, Don.

PS. might be worth considering my fully adjustable suspension package...despite the cost...I can just quote you for the front struts and springs if your budget is a bit tight. They do radically change the handling, roadholding etc....if that is your bag......

[Cypher007]

so what would it cost for the front shocks. just normal ones, im not going to track days, and generally like to keep the car fairly standard.

[Cypher007]

the budget is very tight as ive been quoted about £2k to respray the car. im even thinking of keeping the old springs.

[don kalmar union]

Your old springs are most likely just fine and will last many more years. Just the question of what front struts to get, my feeling is genuine Volvo ones to keep the price sensible. Maybe give your local dealer a prod or try MRG Volvo in Chippenham.

Regards, Don.