Suspension: Delta link bush replacement - new bolts

[Martin Cox]

I'm planning on replacing the delta link bushes on my 1998 V70 Tdi which are beginning to show their age.

I understand that new bolts should be used when reassembling and I have them all except for the bolts securing the mounting plate to the body.

Three of them are used per plate and are shown as part number 976755. Unfortunately they are now unobtainable from Volvo or seemingly anywhere else either. Does anybody know exactly what these bolts are and suggest a suitable alternative?

My best guess without removing one is an M12 flange bolt or machine screw possibly 35mm long and probably 8.8 steel.

Martin

[Bob Meadows]

Do you have a Nut & Bolt supplier nearby:~
This is one we have in the Wigan area https://www.thomassmithfasteners.com/

Engineers suppliers are another good option for the correct specification on fasteners.
A sample bolt should see the correct item being supplied and at the correct spec etc.
Prices are also generally better without compromising on quality.
Bob.

[Baffler]

Originally Posted by Bob Meadows

Do you have a Nut & Bolt supplier nearby:~
This is one we have in the Wigan area https://www.thomassmithfasteners.com/

Engineers suppliers are another good option for the correct specification on fasteners.
A sample bolt should see the correct item being supplied and at the correct spec etc.
Prices are also generally better without compromising on quality.
Bob.

I was going to say the same, Bob, but in my experience (Hassett Nut & Bolt) they typically can't supply automotive specific flanged type screws/bolts.


Skandix list the bracket 8631284 (check out the price ) and scroll down the page where they list an alternative flanged screw P/N 985055.

And you're correct, Martin, M12 35mm 8.8 grade.

[ITSv40]

Yes, new bolts should be used as they are stretch bolts. As Bob says a nut and bolt supplier should be able to supply to the original spec.

[rudi dudi]

Don’t pay any attention to the stretch bolt stuff.
I’ve done loads of these and always reuse the bolts.
Also dont bother with the pointless bush removal tool.A blowlamp and lump hammer see’s them out in 2 minutes flat.

[Baffler]

Brookhouse have 985055 listed too albeit under the 740/760 models.

[Martin Cox]

I did wonder about the 985055 as a possible alternative.

I know of two nut and bolt suppliers in Hull; F R Scott and Bapp. I might give them a try when I've removed a bolt for comparison.

Martin

[Luxobarge]

Originally Posted by rudi dudi

Don’t pay any attention to the stretch bolt stuff.
I’ve done loads of these and always reuse the bolts.

Sorry, that's just plain wrong, and dangerous too, if that's your opinion then fine it's your funeral, but surely not wise to post potentially dangerous advice on a public forum. When I replaced these brackets I first tried re-using the bolts, and subsequently found that two of them had snapped in-situ, one more and the whole suspension would have come loose with amusing consequences. Inspecting the used ones you can clearly see the increase in thread pitch where the bolt has stretched - they are actually made of fairly soft steel.

Regarding sourcing replacements, it was only a year or so ago and I got mine from FRF Volvo - have you (OP) tried them? They had all 4, the three that bolt on the bracket and the larger central one that goes through the bush centre. Not too expensive either.

[rudi dudi]

No
It’s an m12 or 14 bolt.
I’ve done over 200k on reused bolts.Thread lock em and they ain’t going anywhere.
Enjoy xx

[Martin Cox]

Thanks. I may well give FRF a try. My local dealer was unable to help and they're usually pretty good at finding stuff for me. Depressingly if inevitably, more and more parts are being discontinued so one is forced to find alternatives.

Reusing the bolts in this application may work but personally, knowing they are stretch bolts, I wouldn't be happy with the idea so shall be replacing them. It's just a matter of finding replacements!

Martin