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Recent suspension work: I was driving a death trap!!!! 200 1988

For inspection last Feb, I replaced my RTABs. I thought then that I was driving a new car, until recently when I re-did the rest of the rear suspension.

New bushings all around, except for the RTABs which are almost new, and a pair of Bilstein Economy Touring shocks (all from FCP Groton).

MY GOD, before this work, I was driving a DEATH TRAP. I had no idea how bad it was. I now realise that the rear axle had so much slop that it was actually steering the car around, and I was compensating for it without knowing. Its also so much quieter I can actually hear myself think!!

I also realised that as I was driving, I was scanning the road ahead for bumps, and actually physically tensing up my muscles in preparation for the pounding.
I didn't know I was doing this until I drove the fixed up car, and could relax.

Okay, some folks say the shocks I put on aren't the best, but compared to what I had, it feels like this car is new again. I honestly don't know how long the original bushings would last, but the ones on it were Volvo (could still read it on one), and the car has 284,000miles.

What a relief. If any of you are wondering if its worth it to replace these bushings, don't hesitate!!!! You'll be glad you did.

BTW, thanks to all you brickboarders who've given me the confidence to tackle a job like this by myself. This board is the BEST!!!
--
1988 240DL sedan. auto. 277,000 miles :>)






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New Recent suspension work: I was driving a death trap!!!! [200][1988]
posted by  bummer72  on Thu Apr 21 05:50 CST 2005 >


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