PFV / Pro Parts HD Rear Springs
 

Hi there,

I'm picking up a new (to me) caravan this week. I've not towed with this car before (1999 V70) but have noticed it gets very low when full of luggage/people in the back seat, so I'm worried that adding the caravan to this will be a problem.

I was looking at the Parts for Volvos site and they sell a set of 'Heavy Duty' rear springs. I enquired about the manufacturer and they advised it was Pro Parts Sweden. Now I'm new to Volvos but have been a Saab man for many years and I know Pro Parts is basically Scantech under a new name, and Scantech always had a slightly uncertain reputation in Saab circles.

So my question, does anyone have any personal experience (good or bad) of Pro Parts springs, in particular the HD ones?

Thanks in advance.

Suspension spring assistance
 

Hi Tim,

I can't help with your question directly, but can mention what I did with my 1999 V70 TDI.
I would say that if you can afford to convert to a Nivomat set-up that some cars came with (softer springs with the very expensive self-levelling shock absorbers) or fit an aftermarket pump-up shock absorber kit, this may be the best option.
I did not do that - I fitted new gas shock absorbers which raised the rear just a little compared with the old ones (but that is not their purpose, of course), and at the same time fitted Grayston supplemental springs (their reference 39S09 or 39S09H) which go around the new shockers.
This raised the rear to a sensible level for normal use and made if firmer when loaded and towing.
Whatever you do, good luck and enjoy towing!

Ian

http://www.springassisters.co.uk/39S09%20INST.pdf