Hi, I'm a new member just bought my first volvo, suspension all around is pretty shot, probably needs new shocks and all new bushings, just wondering what the best path is for replacing this stuff, I wouldn't mind upgrading to poly for a sportier feel.
Mostly wondering if there is any kits for full bushings all the way around or if you have to buy them seprately/
Thanks

Start by checking out some volvo friendly sites like IPD USA and FCP Euro, You can also google for Dave Barton who has several sites for older Volvos. When it comes to freshing suspensions, my first choice is to go with OEM quality replacement parts - avoiding the cheap aftermarket brands. Most sites will sell you the entire control arm complete with bushings (some models even have the ball joints built in). It is possible to replace just the bushings but that takes special tools like a press so its not worth the effort IMHO (ps, full disclosure, I've done the manual bushing replace in the past, I used a torch to remove the rubber then a sawzall to cut the sleeve and tapped it out. I was installing poly's so I just popped them in the freezer and they slid right in without a press). As to what to replace, since you are just getting started, I'd consider the control arms up front with ball joints, the sway bar bushings, the end links and tie rods. For the struts, I don't know if the red blocks beat up the spring seats the way the 850/V70s do but I'd suggest either Boge Sachs or Bilstein for the strut/shock and replace things like the bump stops, spring seats etc. The strut bushing (bearing) can be inspected or you can just replace as well since the car is like 30 years old right? Dunno about the rear other than shocks and mounts (again my experience is on an 850 and S40). but certainly the front takes all the beating so I'd focus there first. Note, IPD also sells HD sway bars - so if you are looking to upgrade the handling, I'd consider Bilstein B6s (aka the HD shocks not their "Touring" model) as welll as installing the IPD HD bars. Put some nice +1 rims ie 15 or 16s and the car's handling will be transformed.