After wrecking a '92 940 (now a parts car), I got sold on these older Volvos, and nabbed a decent shape '93 240 (sedan, 117k). Of course, it's got laundry lists of little issues, and I have had no mechanical experience until I got this car (2 months or so ago). But, it's generally in good shape, and I want it to get better.

1. I have a warped rotor, and one brake pad is squealing, so, ASAP, I'll be dealing with that (and checking wheel bearings, of course). While I'm at it, what are some things to look for that will be easy to get to as I have the wheels, and likely rotors, off? I'd especially like to know what to look for in terms of the suspension. I'm convinced there's something not quite right, but I'm not sure what. No clunks, but it feels, "off," or maybe, "inconsistent," would be a better term. Given all the parts wearing on the car, I wouldn't be surprised if there's rubber pieces going out, or out of whack.

2. While it is probably the same in all gears (but even 3rd has enough power to accelerate up a hill), in OD, the car generally refuses to downshift without coasting or breaking to a much lower speed. If I am going 60 and hit a long hill, I can drag down 15MPH, pushing more on the pedal, and get nothing but a slightly slower dropping of speed. I don't generally like having to go down to the shift level and hit the side button so much. What should I be looking for to get it a bit more aggressive at downshifting? P.S. If it makes a difference for this, it appears to have the ZF auto.

3. I will be replacing the accessory bushings soon. Are there any things to replace or check out that are easier to get to as the power steering pump and AC compressor pump are moved about?

4. If I were to try to replace the lower hose going to the flame trap, to raise just above the intake, is there any particular thing to watch out for in terms of cut hose to buy, or will any rubber hose of the right ID do? I've read a couple times of folks having done this, but just in passing. It seems like a smart move, since the normal position, while not terribly difficult o get to, makes putting it all back together a hair annoying, simply due to lack of space to get good grips on the hoses.

5. Does anyone know the alternator brush set part(s) for the Denso alternator found in some 940s (It says Denso and Volvo, it is small and heavy, and that's about all I know)? It is now this car's alternator, and I'm having trouble finding good info.

6. As I replace bits and pieces, what sort of parts, tweaks, or applications of spray-on rubbery coatings, will give me the best results to get a smoother and quieter ride?