Howdy.

Time to replace my 98 T5 wagons rear shocks. Any advice on a OEM upgrade at a reasonable cost?

I also heard some talk about 2 different types of rear suspension. What is the story on that?

Your guy's input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks

 

Bilstein H6 is what I have and love.
I did my rears first because the previous owner had the fronts replaced with Volvo OE shortly before I bought the car.
Some say they're too firm. Some say they're just right.
H4's are closer to factory firmness but I cannot place 'em on any kind of scale for you.

I have no clue regarding "2 types of rear suspension" unless any regular shock and Nivomats (self leveling) constitute the 2 types.

 

OEMs are Sachs - which are pretty high quality to begin with. I've done both Bilsteins and Sachs on my 850T wagon - so my view is either would be a good choice. As GnK noted you need to look to see if you have the Nivomat or standard shock (Nivomats are fatter than the standard tube shock).

 

mt6127's post reminded me of something.
I installed Sachs SuperTouring (or was it SporTouring?) on a V70 a while back and was disappointed.
These were a premium selection.
My old shocks were spent and the new, matching Sachs BARELY improved ride.
I would tell anyone not to install Sachs.

 

good point about the shock models - Both Sachs and Bilstein offer gas shocks and traditional shocks as a value play. For example Bilstein B6s are the heavy duty gas shocks, Bilstein Touring are their economy brand of a different design. If you go Bilstein - make sure you buy the correct model - ie B6 HD (heavy duty) vs B8s (sport - which are designed for lowering springs) or Bilstein touring. I also see Koni offers an STR-T model as well. IPD sells the Sachs for $60 per shock, the Koni for $80 and the Bilstein B6 for $110...

 

I forgot to mention I installed lowering springs all around years back, and off brand super econo rear shocks (probably why they've failed, or a simply done after 100K miles) Lowering may be a vital factor in choosing better shocks. Please advise. Looks like my target is the Bilstein B8s since she's been lowered.

I have the standard sock, not Nivomats since they're skinny tubes. is there an interchange issue with one versus the other?

I have tracked the car and often load it with considerable weight so definitely a heavy duty shock upgrade is needed.
Any comments on KYB gas shocks? Bang for buck is attractive but if my lowering springs cause fitment issues.....

Thanks for your knowledge, experience and consultation.