Strut Replacement

I need to replace the struts on my 1987 240 Wagon. I'm looking for some help as far as what needs to be done and any pointers you guys can give me.

I have the struts and a spring compressor.

Reply to
Mwveenhu
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do google on "240 Volvo strut replacement" (no quotes). The Google Groups results for 240 Volvo strut replacement has info in the third item. In summary, i find it best to remove the whole strut from the car, then remove the spring and reassemble in the workshop. These things are heavy. You will need an assistant. For tools an (1/2 inch drive) impact wrench and suitable socket is essential in order to get the top nut loosened. Another task is removal of the brake lines. I prefer to spray the fittings by the inner fender with penetrating oil for a few days before attempting to loosen them. You would be wise to replace the rubber brake lines at this point as they are very old. Since the brake calipers must be removed as well, you should inspect them for proper functioning and replace the pads if needed. I assume that you are *not* replacing the strut inserts. If yes, count on having a challenging time removing the large diameter insert capture nuts. I put the whole strut (without calipers) in a 4 inch bench vice (with protectors on the jaws) and sometimes even use a torch to get that nut off. Finally, there are some notes on my web site about the struts. Look for "8.1 Front suspension" at http://24.108.159.23/245dl_1981_restoration.html. I hope this helps a bit. The job is not difficult, just use good tools, safety goggles when handling those spring compressors and safe procedures, jack stands, and an assistant at times. After you are done, an alignment job is in order.

Reply to
jch

The correct tool is a "C-spanner"

Here's a photo that I googled up of the style of spanner in question.

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I bought one from a local tool shop. The one I have has a hinge in the middle of the arc and is single ended. I was able to remove the old retaining ring using the C-spanner and a rubber mallet (hitting the handle near the other end).

Then I discovered that the Bilstein inserts came with their own design of retainer complete with a separate installation tool and I didn't need the C-spanner to assemble them.

For the top of the strut, a "rattle gun" (air impact wrench) is fine for removing the top nut from an insert that is not going to be used again but should never be used on a good one!

I bought a set of deep offset spanners to do up the top nut, and got a mate to machine a slot in the end of a piece of hex bar to stop the top of the insert turning whilst tightening the nut. Then I discovered that the Bilsteins had an allen key hole in the top...

With aftermarket top bearings, the nut won't be in such a deep hole and the deep offset spanner may not be needed.

Reply to
Athol

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