Any Advice, Part 2!

[Chris152]

OK, weather cleared up for a minute, so we got some shots (attached). Am I right thinking the thinner one is a regular one (first pic), and was fitted in error; the fat old one is self-levelling and, judging by the completely decomposed rubber boot, in desperate need of replacement (second pic); and that the car has no rear anti-roll bar (third pic)?

So - we need to replace both shocks and because we're not fitting self-levelling shocks, we need to replace the springs too as the ones on there will be too soft? I think that's what I understand, just checking!

[Laird Scooby]

Originally Posted by Chris152

OK, weather cleared up for a minute, so we got some shots (attached). Am I right thinking the thinner one is a regular one (first pic), and was fitted in error; the fat old one is self-levelling and, judging by the completely decomposed rubber boot, in desperate need of replacement (second pic); and that the car has no rear anti-roll bar (third pic)?

So - we need to replace both shocks and because we're not fitting self-levelling shocks, we need to replace the springs too as the ones on there will be too soft? I think that's what I understand, just checking!

Both of those are normal dampers Chris - i can see why they were misidentified - the larger one is reminscent of a Boge Nivomat (Nivo) aka self-leveling damper.

You're correct in thinking there isn't a rear ARB, if you can find one to retrofit it will improve the ride and handling but isn't essential. Until a couple of years back, my 760 didn't have a rear ARB either!

[Chris152]

Hm, now I'm not sure what to do! Can we assume the springs are the correct ones for regular shock absorbers? If not, they seem to have been wrong a long while.
I've searched and searched but can't find info on what they would have had originally.
ps In case anyone might know the answer, it's a 1991 glt.

[Bob Meadows]

Yes the larger damper (Blue) is a Boge S/L damper- I have a couple of these partly restored but probably wont use them:~

Usually used with the weaker springs I believe- the anti-roll bar is also redundant with the above and this may be a pointer as to the original specification etc.
This was the case for my friends '89 240 fitted with the self leveling rear.

Ant-roll bars are present on all other configurations (my '88 240 has it)

I would think that a normal damper has replaced the original S/L one & probably because they cost a kings ransom!

You should be able to pick up a anti-roll bar via the usual culprits (springs are available new) or used if that is the route you choose etc.
Good Luck
Bob.

[Laird Scooby]

Originally Posted by Chris152

Hm, now I'm not sure what to do! Can we assume the springs are the correct ones for regular shock absorbers? If not, they seem to have been wrong a long while.
I've searched and searched but can't find info on what they would have had originally.
ps In case anyone might know the answer, it's a 1991 glt.

Thanks to Bob Meadows ^^^^^ it seems i was wrong although i did comment the larger of the two dampers was similar to a Nivo so you have got one of each.

https://www.volvoclub.org.uk/vin_200.shtml

You can use that link to decode your VIN Chris, that should tell you what sort of suspension it had on the rear originally.

Either way the springs appear to have been on for 30 years so i'd be tempted to fit a new rear pair, Lesjofors, Kilen and another brand i can't think of beginning with "S" i think are all the same (Lesjofors being the parent company) and are relatively cheap to buy but very good quality. Volvo used Lesjofors as OE spring suppliers so gives you a good idea!

[Chris152]

OK. So, if we replace both shocks with regular ones, we need to replace the springs to firmer ones and fit an anti-roll bar - the anti-roll bar isn't necessary with self levelling, but it is with regular shocks and springs?

Sorry if I'm being slow, I really appreciate your patience.

ps I notice on Brookhouse the springs they sell are suitable for all 240s except glt

[Bob Meadows]

Yes:~ spot on Chris.
All very straight forward and not time consuming provided all the bolts/nuts are free etc; (usual preparation helps)
The anti-roll bar takes minutes as the lower shock absorber bolt forms part of fixings-just one other point if you go for used make sure the two trailing arm fixings come with it, as marked etc.
Regards Bob
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quote "I notice on Brookhouse the springs they sell are suitable for all 240s except glt"

Probably because the GLT was fitted with the S/L system as standard- that was the case with my friends car ???

Just spotted this-https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Volvo-240-Anti-Roll-Bar-Front-Rear-Good-Used-Items/154267793626?hash=item23eb13b8da:g:ZUsAAOSwE5Bdb5R 3

Ashleaclassics-good company

[Chris152]

Thanks Bob. Looking a bit more expensive than the £80 I was hoping for!
Purely so I'm covering bases, does anyone sell self-levelling shocks for 240s, for overall cost comparison? I've searched but not found.

Ah - just seen your link. That'd keep cost down. Are they all the same shape/ fit? I'm looking at another ( https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/VOLVO-240...Condition=3000 ) and it looks a different shape? I'd hate to buy the wrong kind for our car.

[Bob Meadows]

I would say that price is way off the scale Chris!
Some information exists on the forum regarding S/L shocks, I have posted details regarding the pair I have- I believe these are no longer available for our cars-even later models are a second mortgage!
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The Ashley Classics looks right to me- although two are included F&R:~

They are from a 240 Estate-low mileage he says, we have had dealings with this company and they are always very helpful.
Why not make contact and ask for the rear only- he could probably also supply a descent set of rear springs that could be worth considering if costs needs to be trimmed.
Either way used parts can be an option- are you sure that the springs already on the car are not correct considering the mix match here - it may be worth checking dimensions & coils-Brookhouse may be able to supply these specification?
Regards Bob

[Chris152]

That's great, thanks Bob - I wrote and he confirmed they'll fit a GLT, and I've just written to ask if we could buy just the rear, and will ask about the springs just in case. But from what I can see, the springs have to have come off another glt, as the ones on Brookhouse aren't suitable for ours (tho elsewhere on their site it seems to suggest you can use their springs on a GLT with spacers). I've used them a few times, incredibly helpful and knowledgeable.