Hi all,
My dad's 855 Turbo is riding rough. It's got 180K and most of the suspension is original, except for rear Bilstein shocks, which, in my opinion, are too stiff. His car has the original optional 17" 5-star rims which require low-pro tires, which I'm sure contribute to the rough ride (compared to my 240 at least). He is getting new tires soon and wants to know what will give him the best ride quality (he currently has Toyo). Also, I told him that he should switch out the Bilsteins and install front and rear KYBs or Boges. What do you all think?
Thanks
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Patrick McHugh, Cincinnati, OH, 1993 244 Limited Ed. 'Classic' model (daily driver)

This is a very difficult personal question to answer. What exactly is "best ride quality"??? You think the current ride is too stiff but you're not the principle driver. What does your dad think? Is it too harsh for him or too soft. If he want's a plush ride he shouldn't have purchased a turbo anything. I think Volvo is no exception in the fact that their turbo cars are sprung stiffer and have heavier duty suspension parts and wheels. They expect the turbo purchaser to want more in the way of better handling to go along with the added power. Can't have it both ways. Bilsteins all around have been praised by many people on this site. Maybe stick to the generic Volvo models. No "S's" no turbo's.

I have a turbo and put Bilstein HDs all around. Totally delighted in the improvement in handing. They only firmed the ride without making it harsher, a subtle but important distinction.

Interesting to note, while I was doing the installation, I put the front struts on first, drove for a day, then put in the back shocks. It was very clear that Bilsteins need to work as a system. The ride was actually harsher with the Bilsteins in front and the original shocks in back. Then I put in the IPD swaybar which was the icing on the cake.

I never cease to be delighted in how my 10 year old car handles. I can easily afford a new car but have no interest. And by the way, tell your Dad I'm 63...
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96 850T, Bilstein HD, IPD swaybars

Here Here! I feel the same way about my 96 Turbo. (63 also)
I put a set of Bilstein Touring (front and rear) on mine a year or so ago. Soffened the ride a little, which was fine with me. I run Yokahama Avid tires on both Volvos. Great all around tire.
I'll take my 96 over my wife's S70 any day.
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Tom 69-1800S, 72-1800ES, 96-850T,2000-S70 GLT-SE

Perhaps that is the problem. He has Bilstein HDs in the back and original Volvo in front. He, too, thinks the ride is a little harsh, but only on rough pavement. I will encourage him to get Bilsteins on the front and a check of all bushings, etc. He's going on a long trip soon and wants to be as comfortable as possible. Maybe front Bils, new tires, bushings and an alignment will do the trick.

Thanks
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Patrick McHugh, Cincinnati, OH, 1993 244 Limited Ed. 'Classic' model (daily driver)

If you Dad's turbo has sport suspension, it will always ride rough and the 17" wheels aren't helping any. Bilstein TC seems to be a favourite among us older guys, but KYBs are OK.
I would suggest that he get all of the suspension bushings replaced, the old ones must be hard as a rock by now. A shop will need to do this because of the press required and I know of few people who just happen to have one in their garage.
If he has sport springs, regular springs will raise the height about one inch and really soften the ride, but will introduce some body lean when cornering.

Klaus
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(V♂LV♂s 1975 164, 1995 854T, 1998 V70R)