Has anyone had any experience using aftermarket axles and suspension parts. I have searched "Brand Reviews" forum and the 850 forum but have not found any info. Been searching the web to find prices for an 1996 850 wagon I just purchased. Prices for parts are all over the place. Anyone have any input on this suspension kit for only $134.99? Thank you for your time. M

Volvo Suspension Kit - Front (2-bolt 850 S70 V70) - 102K10004 - Free Shipping

 

For suspension parts with rubber components, I tend to stick with OEM. I did control arms on my 850 only to have the bushing fail at 60K miles. That said, suppliers like EEUROPARTS and FCPEURO offer a range of suppliers - bigger name brands may actually be the actual OEM supplier - so don't assume you need to buy a volvo boxed item. For example, Lemforder is the OEM for many of the suspension parts, Meyle offers "heavy duty" parts as a good value, Sachs/Boge are the OEM strut vendor etc.

 

Thanks for the input. I have seen the Meyle ones offered and they are priced much better then Volvo OEM. Do you have a recommendation on replacement Axle brands? I was looking at the USA ones from IPD website. M

 

Axles usually fail because the boots tear and you loose grease and get dirt into the splines not that the parts wear out or break. I've had good luck using rebuilt axles from FCPEURO for $75 vs the $$$ for new.

 

Cool thanks I think those remanufactuered ones on FPCEURO are from USA Axle. Good to hear from someone who has used them. So keep an eye on the boots . The ones on this car are completely torn.

 

Napa rebuilt axles are OEM Volvo

 

Thanks for the heads up. I like shopping local if I can. Napa is close and the price is good. I am waiting on getting the title signed over before I spend any money on this wagon. Hopefully that will be soon. Looking forward to riding on four wheels.

 

I like the NAPA Online service... check their web sites for specials too. I just picked up a new battery for my 850 and got a $20 off coupon because I reserved the part via NAPA Online.