I have a backorder at IPD for their new sway bars, and today I received the announcement below. It looks like having a backorder was a worthwhile thing to do-I wonder how much more they will be in the catalog for new buyers?<P>*******************************************<P>This letter is to update you on the status of our re-design of the rear<BR>anti- sway bar for 850 and 70 series Volvos up to model year 2000 (all <BR>wheel<BR>drive models excluded). <P>Earlier this year we had estimated that we would have the newly <BR>designed bar<BR>available by the end of July. Extensive testing this spring and summer <BR>has<BR>revealed further complications with the newly proposed design. <P>In the past, we have done all of our design work in-house, but the <BR>unusual<BR>"Delta-Link" semi-independent rear suspension used in these models has <BR>been<BR>a real challenge for us. To further ensure that we develop a design <BR>that<BR>provides the performance and durability our bars are known for, we have<BR>enlisted the services of a mechanical engineering firm with expertise <BR>in<BR>metallurgy and heat treating (Schaefer Engineering). At this time, we <BR>are<BR>awaiting the results of finite element analysis (FEA) testing that will<BR>provide us with the critical data that we have been missing. The FEA <BR>testing<BR>is scheduled to be complete by September 16th. If the results are what <BR>we<BR>expect, we will be able to finalize testing by the end of September and<BR>begin production. Typically once production is started we can begin <BR>shipping<BR>within 40 days, so if everything goes according to this conservative <BR>plan,<BR>we should begin shipping by mid-November. <P>To thank you for your patience, we will be providing all existing <BR>orders<BR>with the old kit pricing, as the price of this new design is <BR>significantly<BR>higher. <BR>It is our goal to provide you with a safety anti-sway bar system that <BR>is of<BR>the highest quality and performance that will reasonably last the life <BR>of<BR>the car.<BR> If your circumstances have changed and you wish to cancel your order, <BR>we<BR>certainly understand. Simply give our customer service staff a call and <BR>they<BR>will be glad to assist you. Otherwise, keep your fingers crossed and <BR>look<BR>for your kit before the end of the year. (We'll keep you posted if <BR>there are<BR>any further delays.)<P>Again, Thanks for your patience.<BR><P>