Hello All,

I have 1996 950 GLT wagon with a 5 speed manual. Approximately 2 to 3 years ago, I replaced the front and rear stabilizer bars with iPd stabilizer bars which are advertised as having a greater diameter than stock bars, and will improve stability.

Recently, I've noticed at slow speeds while turning the wheel to the right or left, I'll hear a "rubbing" noise that you normally associate with a rubber bushing. This rubbing noise can also be heard when you back up the car, again turning the wheel to the right or left.

My private mechanic, who works on nothing but Volvos, believes the rubbing noise is coming from the bushings that came with the iPd bar. The bushings are red in color. My mechanic says these bushings are harder than the OEM ones that Volvo produces. He says, that assuming I can get replacement bushings, the noise will return again, due to the fact the bushing is more rigid, than the OEM. I hope this is not true. I've already chucked the OEM bars. In fact, I have another '96 850 wagon, where I also replaced the OEM bars with iPd bars.

My question to anyone who has installed the iPd bars on an 850: Have you experienced this "rubbing" noise coming from the bushings? If so, what did you do to remedey the problem. Thanks to all who respond.

Hugh