I've been told I need to replace the suspension on my 1994 850 Sportswagon w/198k miles. I was recently burned on a brake job, and now I'm trying to gain some knowledge on the Volvo parts and repair process. I asked over on Swedespeed, and so I thought I might ask here, too. I'm going for practical over sporty, both for hauling heavy stuff and surviving the bumpy streets of Chicago.
First, I'm planning on ordering:
- Bilstein HD struts/shocks
- Scan Tech front coil springs
- Scan Tech rear HD coil springs (are these different than iPD overload springs?)
Next, the mounts are about ready to go, so:
- front strut mount (any ideas on manufacturer? Scan Tech? OEM?)
- iPD front upper spring seat
- iPD rear upper shock mount
- rear spring seat ()
- iPD rear spring bump stop retaining pin
Last, I've heard these might make a difference, but I'm not sure.
- iPD cherry turbo strut brace
- iPD anti sway bars
If all of these suspension components are coming out, do I need to know whether the car is equipped with Nivomats or not? I'm fairly certain it isn't (just based on visual inspection) but how would I tell for sure? Anything I'm missing? Anything that might be a better choice? Any good Volvo mechanics in the Chicago area? Any and all help is greatly appreciated.
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