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The left rear trailing arm of my wagon rotted in half, so I decided to change out the original springs, original shocks and original TABs while replacing the trailing arms.
I purchaced an excellent, but used, pair of arms from www.newandusedvolvoparts.com, with new TABs included--front and back, for 150USD total. Useable used arms are scarce in N.E., however they are available new at www.fcpgroton.com (160USD/pr.). 22mm and 17mm sockets(w/ b-bar) and combo wrenches are required to remove the arms from the sway bar, axle, and under-body. I purchased the IPD trailing arm bushing press (165USD). It is also available at www.technictool.com (165USD) and www.etoolcart.com (139USD). It worked well in pressing out the bushings, and appears none the worse for its wear, despite the warnings of archived BB posts on the subject. It requires a 36mm socket, a 17mm socket and a +20" breaker bar (or similar) for its safe operation. A mallet or carpenter's hammer is also required to fit the press retainer between the bushing tabs. I also purchased IPD cargo springs. Depending on their condition, when changing the rear coil springs, it may also be necessary to change out the washer and nut that retains the spring to the trailing arm. This washer does not come with the springs. It can be purchased from www.fcpgroton.com (14USD/pr.). A nut and bolt can be bought at any hard-ware supply. Additionally, I purchased and fitted bilstein shocks (www.fcpgroton.com, 160USD/pr.) as replacements, based on favorable reviews on this BB. A 3/4-inch socket and 3/4-inch combo wrench is required for their change-out. Is that flimsey, blue plastic boot standard design?
All of the work is very straight-forward and once you approach it. Aside from a flat tire I had to change once, which doesn't really count, it is the first time I had ever performed repair work on a car. Total repair time of 6.5 hrs.. A pair of jack stands, to elevate the vehicle, and a floor jack, to actuate the rear axle, are also required for this work.
Altogether, the improvement in ride and vehicle handling is absolutely phenomenal. I can answer questions anyone may have regarding this experience. Thanks,
cabbage, '88 245, '86 245
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