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Strut (front) preferences & advice V70-XC70 1998

1998 V70XC ~140k miles

The right front strut mount/bearing has gone from the occasional squeak to full-time chatter. ...So it is no longer on the "wait until spring" list. While attacking the mounts, the struts are going to be changed (at least 70k on them, probably 140k). I've done struts on 240s & 740s of varying rustiness, so I know just enough to get into trouble. The archives don't have as much to say on the subject as one would expect.

1. Does anyone have a strong preference on brand? I'm aiming for OE feel. Sachs?

2. It looks like the strut bolts onto the upright, so there isn't any messing with CV joints. Should new hardware be used?

3. Is there a chance that the sway bar links can be removed without breakage? Or should I just buy new ones?

4. What else should be done while everything is apart? The ball joints & control arms are newish (per service records).

Thanks,
-Nate








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    Much better V70-XC70 1998

    Thank you KlausC and MWM for the tips on parts and procedures. Swapped out the struts and related parts on Sunday, and had it aligned yesterday. The ride is now squeakfree and even a little smoother.

    I used all Sachs/Boge parts, which all fit and felt as they should. The process itself was easier than struts on 240/740s (no rusted strut nut to battle).








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    Strut (front) preferences & advice V70-XC70 1998

    When I did mine, I replaced everything above the dust boot holder. Watch out for FCP nuts and bolts, they are cheap and I didn't bother to use them. The 2 bottom bolts are 18mm, just get 2 new nuts for them at the dealer.
    Someone here replaced his struts with Sachs and before removing the 2 bottom bolts, scribed the original outline on the upright. When he put the new one on, he had a good idea where they should go and would up not having to get the front end aligned.
    If the endlinks are due to be replaced, then now is a good time to do that. Get IPDs, they are much better than OEM. The old ones will not break when you take them off!
    The plasticc holder for the ABS wiring!! Trick to get them off -- There is a small plastic pin in the center of each of the two plastic inserts (foot) that goes through the hole in the strut. Punch the pin out and the foot slides right out. Save that little pin, otherwise you will go back to the dealer $.

    http://members.shaw.ca/heeeeee/strut/

    This link has nice pics,

    Klaus
    --
    The 164 has a new home, all I am left with are a 95 854T and a 98 V70R :)








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      Strut (front) preferences & advice V70-XC70 1998

      Thank you for the information, especially the ABS connector. Nothing more frustrating than getting the hardware apart only to be stymied by a plug. I'll be holding off on the swaybar link until the spring IPD order (FCP is next day shipping to here).

      Thanks.








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    Strut (front) preferences & advice V70-XC70 1998

    Just stay OEM Sachs since you're still using OEM suspension on the rear. New OEM struts will give an excellent balanced ride. FCP-Groton sells them at a good price. I usually use old hardware except for the top caps. If you can get the old sway links off without tearing the grease boot, go ahead & re-use. If not, they're cheap to replace. Replace your spring seats. Used bump stops and dust boots are usually fine. There's really not much to take apart so nothing else to replace. Just be careful not to tear your CV boots.








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      Strut (front) preferences & advice V70-XC70 1998

      Sachs it is then. I'll be wary of the CV boots.

      Thank you.







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