[Runamok]

Ok, I'm going to be installing new drop springs and struts/shocks in the next few weeks. I also need a new lower control arm. I was planning on going with new spring seats (front & rear) and new front strut mounts as well. Should I add anything else to the list other than new hardware? And should I stick with Volvo parts for the control arm(s), spring seats and strut mounts or will the aftermarket stuff hold up?

The car is a '98 V70 with around 100,000 miles

 

[Chilled Man]

Nah thats about it .

Acutally would go with the XC90 Spring seats .
and strut mounts I only replace when they go bad.

 

[Runamok]

So you don't bother with the strut mounts unless they're toast? And should I just stick with Volvo parts?

 

[JRL]

Re: Drop springs and front-end work??? (Runamok)

You always want to replace #8, (those are called spring seats) and use the XC90 seats, they all fit and the XC90s seem to be stronger.
You have to look at #4, most of the time it's OK (strut plate).
I would also replace all those washers, nuts and bolts at this time.

ALWAYS use OEM Volvo for these parts but you have a several choices on springs and struts/ shocks.
Personally I like the Koni sports but you also can go with Bilstein Tourings (and OEM Volvo)
If you want stiffer, you can use Koni FSD's, or Bilstein Sports (yellow), these are too stiff for me but some people like them.

What kind (brand) of struts/shocks do you plan to use?

 

[Runamok]

I'll be using the new IPD springs and the Bilstein TC's. What is the typical life span of a strut mount?

 

[heavyiron]

Re: (Runamok)

Quote, originally posted by Runamok »

I'll be using the new IPD springs and the Bilstein TC's. What is the typical life span of a strut mount?

About one set of struts

Also, if you are putting in lowerins springs, you may seriously want to consider eliptical camber bolts such as H&R's to correct for negative camber induced by the lowering springs

 

[Taleof2Bricks2]

Re: (Runamok)

Quote, originally posted by Runamok »

I'll be using the new IPD springs and the Bilstein TC's....

Some have actually experienced a slightly higher ride height with these, so with the IPD springs, you may end up back at stock height.

 

[JRL]

Re: (Taleof2Bricks2)

Quote, originally posted by Taleof2Bricks2 »

Some have actually experienced a slightly higher ride height with these, so with the IPD springs, you may end up back at stock height.

Not even close.
The new IPD springs are a whopping 1 -1/2" drop, the Bilsteins MAY raise it back to 1.1" still a healthy drop.
They only raise the car back about 3/8" or so