Suspension question

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Peete - 18 Jun 2007 14:48 GMT

I have a 98 S70 T5 SE with 178,000 kms on it. I find it is starting to
ride a little harder and was wondering if it's worth spending $ on
replacing suspension components to improve the situation. In a nutshell,
where would you start (and it what order)and how far would you go? If one
was to replace everything, would the car ride like a new one again? I
intend on keeping it for many years.

Thanks,

Peete

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James Sweet - 18 Jun 2007 19:57 GMT

>I have a 98 S70 T5 SE with 178,000 kms on it. I find it is starting to
> ride a little harder and was wondering if it's worth spending $ on
[quoted text clipped - 6 lines]
>
> Peete

It's probably about time for shocks, struts, and at least some of the
bushings. Replacing those should have it riding like a new car, though the
T5s always had pretty stiff suspension and most of the aftermarket stuff is
geared towards making them stiffer.

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Roadie - 19 Jun 2007 15:06 GMT

> I have a 98 S70 T5 SE with 178,000 kms on it. I find it is starting to
> ride a little harder and was wondering if it's worth spending $ on
[quoted text clipped - 6 lines]
>
> Peete

If it is actually riding harder I would look first at the tires. If
the tread is has more than half gone or if there is uneven wear and
they are run at a high pressure the ride could be quite harsh.

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Peete - 20 Jun 2007 01:42 GMT

Because of our "beautiful" road conditions (Québec), it is near impossible
to maintain high air pressure. However, I will have my mechanic look at
the suspension components and see what he has to say first. The old "push
down on the corner of the car to see if it bounces back" doesn't seem to
indicate a problem at the shock absorber level, but again, I am no expert.
Thanks for your thoughts. If anyone has any other suggestions, they are
more than welcomed! :-)

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Roadie - 20 Jun 2007 12:53 GMT

> Because of our "beautiful" road conditions (Qu?bec), it is near impossible
> to maintain high air pressure. However, I will have my mechanic look at
[quoted text clipped - 3 lines]
> Thanks for your thoughts. If anyone has any other suggestions, they are
> more than welcomed! :-)

Be sure to have the tires checked. A newer tire will ride a lot
smoother than an old one with less tread. If worn that will cause a
rougher ride no matter the pressure.

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