Ok, I have a problem. I have started doing reparis/maintenance/replacement myself and have got the bug. With the increase in knowledge has come the innevitable increase in appetite do increase performance. In fact, last night I found myself dreaming about replacing sway bars. It's gotten bad. So today I am drooling at the mouth browsing through IPD's selection of modificaitons, but, unfortunately, am limited in my funds for such purchases.

Here's what I am thinkng about, let me know what you think about what I should do first, what I don't need to do, etc.

IPD sway bars - my bushings are cracked and the gromeets look like pancakes so they need to be replaced and I figure I'll go ahead and replace the bars. They seem to be a worthwhile investment. (I figure the shot bushings and grommets are the cause of the creaking that occurs when cornering)

New springs - Three out of four of my volvo's (244T, 745Ti, and now the 940Ti) have suffered from a sag in the left rear. I assume that this indicates a need for new springs. Is that right? If so, are the IPD sport springs worth it for this car? Is there an equivalent spring out there for less? Do I also need to get into shock replacement to match the new springs, and if so, what type?

In terms of engine performance, I was looking through the site on making your volvo go fast (the six steps to adding horsepower) and realized there is probably a good bit of "bringing up to code" that needs to be done before I get into any modificaiotn in exhaust, wastegate, etc. What, beyond what is mentioned in the step 0, do I need to think about checking/replacing just to get the car in tip top stock shape?

What other issues do I need to think about? I have had the car since the first of the year - an elderly lady had it before me and used to travel to and fro the country club - nice life she had. Anyway, according to the maintenance log, she took care of the basic stuff pretty well.


Thanks in advance,

Sam