The center support bearing housing (driveshaft) seems to have some slop in it. I can move it up and around with not much effort. Plus it hummmms during certain RPM's. The factory Volvo support (not the bearing) looks like its close to $130 vs. the aftermarket part which is closer to $38.

After my last experience with the aftermarket strut mount bearings, I'll FIRST ask whether anyone has used aftermarket parts for this application or should I suck it up and buy the factory part?

I'm confident I can buy the bearing part aftermarket, put the rubber piece is questionable.

Any experience with the aftermarket U-joints as long as I'm in there?

Thank you in advance.

The aftermarket part I used was no-where near the robustness of the factory original but the original part lasted for 16 years and I would be happy to get 5 years out of the aftermarket. If you're on a budget like me then get the aftermarket, if not get the Volvo part and never replace it again. I bought the U-joints,expecting to have to replace them, but they were all tight and moved smoothly.

Ron
87 745 240000 km

I tried using AutoZone u-joints but they were the wrong size, they are listed wrong in the AZ computer. I found NAPA had a replacement also. Bottom line is to take an old u-joint with you to the parts shop so they can measure it and order the right u-joint.

Well, my experience may be unique as I did the job without a press. There are two shields that protect the sealed bearing and I tryed to get away without them the first time with the aftermarket parts. Actually I tryed to reuse the old shields but they seemed to interfer with the rubber support. I also found that the bearing was difficult to fit to the rubber support. After a drive on the backroads of Arkansas I discovered the value of the shields, some grit found it's way into the bearing. So I sucked it up for the OE parts; shields, bearing and support!
To my surprise I found that the bearing fit was much more precise in the support and only required a light press fit.
I know others have used the aftermarket parts with success but for me it just didn't work out.

As for the U-joints, they are not the same quality as OE, the needles are much smaller in diameter but would likely give good service but probably not go 300,000 mi.

"you pays your money and you takes your choice"

I use aftermarket whenever I can, sometimes it just doesn't work out.

BTW I think I payed $140+ at Beechmont Volvo for everything plus I think the shipping is free.
Tom