Hi Everyone.

I'm a new member to this forum (this is my first post) and own a blue 1990 740 base sedan--not one option, not even the automatic transmission. A couple of years ago I bought it from the original owners, childhood neighbors who bought it through the European Delivery Program in June 1990. I love it! Unfortunately, after 23 years and some 220,000 miles, I'm down to 2 of 4 of the plastic wheel covers ... again. I must have owned 10 of 'em (wheel covers) over the few years I've owned the car, as they keep either falling off or getting stolen.

I was on craigslist the other day looking yet again for replacement wheel covers, I noticed a set of 4 Hydra aluminum rims for sale. Having "researched" through this forum, I have ascertained that they will fit my car. Very exciting! And I might never have to buy plastic wheel covers again! What I'm unsure about is the lug nuts. Having contacted the seller, he says they're true, but he doesn't have the original lug nuts that go with them.

Can I use the lug nuts from my steel wheels on the Hydras?

Finally, I've decided to treat the old girl to some replacement shock absorbers and rubber bits (tie rod ends, ball joints, etc.), as she's loosened up over the years, and I hear clunking over every pothole. I was just going to go with KYBs as standard replacements, but was wondering if I need to upgrade to compensate for additional weight of the Hydras? Anything else I should be aware of?

Many thanks,
Matt

1990 Volvo 740 Sedan m47 5-speed 220,000 miles (356,000 km)

 

Not much to worry about: Hydras bolt right on, use same lug nuts as the steel wheels, just make sure you put the lug nuts the correct way... And the Hydras weigh LESS than the steel wheels. Be careful with the Hydra caps--they have to go on centered with all four tabs fitting inside the center hole. Some "professionals" muscle them in tilted and break off a tab.