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Clunk....clunk. The noise of a bad suspension looms. Whether it be a bad ball joint, spring seat, or sway bar link, something is worn out. When accompanied by a bump in the road, this noise most often indicates there is "play" somewhere in the suspension. This play is usually just audible at first, but can worsen to introduce soggy steering and body movement into the chassis.

My 2004 Volvo C70 is a bit noisy pulling into the driveway at times, and rough roads create some pretty interesting sounds. Luckily, this repair is probably the easiest suspension repair one can make, and if the links aren't the problem, you aren't out much cash.

Tools

  • 17mm socket/wrench
  • T30 Torx Bit
  • Penetrating Lubricant

Parts

Volvo Sway Bar Link Front (C70 S70 V70 850) - Lemforder 31212730 Volvo Sway Bar Link Front (C70 S70 V70 850) - Lemforder 31212730

Volvo Sway Bar Link Front (C70 S70 V70 850) - Lemforder 31212730

Volvo Sway Bar Link Front (C70 S70 V70 850) - Meyle HD 31212730

Procedure

This repair requires the front of the vehicle to be supported on jack stands. If only one side of the car is raised, the sway bar will be preloaded from the opposite side making removal impossible. With both sides in the air, remove the front wheels.

IMG_2385

Soak the threads in penetrating oil for a few minutes

IMG_2386

I use an electric impact to break the nut free initially, if you don't have one, just crack it with a ratchet. Once the nut is cracked, the ball joint in the link will just spin, so don't expect it to come off just yet.

IMG_2387

The original links on my convertible use a 15mm nut over a T30 torx stud. Newer links may use 16mm or 17mm - it varies.

IMG_2388

Slowly remove the nut using the box wrench as a counter-hold. Install the new links in the same fashion, torquing the nut to 37ft-lbs, or "pretty snug."

 

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About the Author: Alex Fiehl

AlexIMG_0896 is FCP's Blog Editor and a Desktop Engineer from Endwell, NY. He has over 10 years of experience working on a wide array of import makes, but has found his home with European cars. With a Volkswagen and Volvo at home, the garage is always busy.


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Written by :
Alex Fiehl


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