Fitted a strut brace yesterday...

[Filterlab]

.............

[jonno12]

i do like that i recon you should get some hoses in there i was thinking yellow might look pretty good

[C70Dan]

Does it really make that much off a difference? I have a C70 and it does seem a bit wobbly for such a sporty car. I gunned mine down a slip road last week and when I realised I was going a bit fast and should brake (95mph), I could feel the back end trying to step out, It got a bit exciting and I haven't done it since. If this thing really does tighten it up then it might be worth investing in one, while we are both in one piece.

[jonno12]

i guess that was a no then lol

[Dacvolvo]

Yellow hoses?! :lol: I'm 32 mate, not 19. ;)

Ah... 32... So it'll be the blue hoses you'll be needing then :D

[cegc70t]

Looks good m8. need to put one on the wanted list lol.

[Wombatbomb]

Definitely one of the best mods per £ for these cars.

[Tomcat]

A strut brace should always be one of the first mods you do, for the amount it costs it's well worth it.

[Wombatbomb]

Nope, should be fine as is.

[Rufe]

i cant believe there are actually still some people out there with T5's without these! lol

very reasonable price for a genuine item if you ask me (we sell them at less than £72 delivered), and they are easy to fit too, and they do make a difference to the handling of the car. There was a time a couple of years back that i was selling at least one or two of these a week to people over the internet.

[y2blade]

Yellow hoses?! :lol: I'm 32 mate, not 19. ;)

:D that would have been my answer too :D except i'm 33


-----

how easy was it to fit? i keep toying with getting one for mine, if they make as much differance as you say i'll get on and order one

[paullus]

In reply to your question re the tracking the answer is no it doesn't need checking. The reason the strut brace is so effective is that it almost eliminates the twisting movement of the suspension in the strut towers and the top mounts. It is this twisting of the body which cause misalignment of the wheels on the road and therefore sloppy handling. With a strut brace fitted the suspension is made altogether stiffer and wheel alignment during cornering is maintained so handling and tyre wear improves.
Not a particularly scientific answer but the principle is correct.
Have fun, I think it was my first mod after buying the car. It really does inspire a far greater degree of confidence in the handling and driving pleasure is enhanced no end.
Cheers.

[y2blade]

how easy was it to fit?

[BlackC70]

it's only 6 bolts out of the strut tops, drop it on, do em up, done...

I really should buy one soon like...

[Wombatbomb]

It's a 15 min job, including putting tools away and making/drinking the cup of tea afterwards. 8 bolts actually ;) You have to put the strutbrace together (one bolt each end), then there are three nuts to undo on each strut mount, then do back up.

[BlackC70]

pedant :P hehe!

[y2blade]

It's a 15 min job, including putting tools away and making/drinking the cup of tea afterwards. 8 bolts actually ;) You have to put the strutbrace together (one bolt each end), then there are three nuts to undo on each strut mount, then do back up.

thanks guys :)


i will get on and order one

[PNuT]

i dont recall it making any difference when i fitted mine.....

[PNuT]

Does it really make that much off a difference? I have a C70 and it does seem a bit wobbly for such a sporty car. I gunned mine down a slip road last week and when I realised I was going a bit fast and should brake (95mph), I could feel the back end trying to step out, It got a bit exciting and I haven't done it since. If this thing really does tighten it up then it might be worth investing in one, while we are both in one piece.

my back end was always a lit lively before i changed the rear pads & realised one pad on each side was seized solid..... will pass an mot as its even but rear braking is ****e ;)

[Jimmie]

I might throw my one off unless i fit the rear one then it might work as everybody think's they do.

[volvokid]

I might throw my one off unless i fit the rear one then it might work as everybody think's they do.

I don't know why every one rate’s the strut so highly; I found my dads T5 a nightmare to handle under hard acceleration the car throws you about allot more my mum and G/F were in the back and told me to slow down when I was going up one of the hills in Aberdeen due to the back of the car twisting. I have one fitted to my car haven’t tried it out yet I also have the back one which should hopefully stop the car twisting and biting back like my dads car..

[MrMark]

The balance is slowly tipping!

If everybody was honest, they would admit that a front strut brace alone is nothing more than an expensive bit of bling!

[freaky fingers]

It's a bit like sticking a pair of socks down your pants before you go out on the pull

Some are convinced it works ....and some would never do it

personal choice

[jonno12]

i can see this one turning into a debate

[freaky fingers]

Personally it works for me. :)


The brace or the socks in the pants?

[y2blade]

The balance is slowly tipping!

If everybody was honest, they would admit that a front strut brace alone is nothing more than an expensive bit of bling!


ahh i see!

[y2blade]

I am being honest, there is a very big difference with the strut brace on, a very big difference indeed. If there wasn't, I'd remove it and send it back.

Remember just because you can't feel a difference doesn't mean that anyone who can is lying.

have you fitted a rear brace? or just the front one?

[y2blade]

Just the front mate, is there a rear brace available for the S70? I thought it was for just the V70.


i dont know, sorry

[PNuT]

I am being honest, there is a very big difference with the strut brace on, a very big difference indeed. If there wasn't, I'd remove it and send it back.

Remember just because you can't feel a difference doesn't mean that anyone who can is lying.

maybe some cars are more flexible than others in the first place

cut & shut anyone? :lol:

[MrMark]

I think the people that are giving glowing reports of a huge difference have suspension or handling issues that the brace is hiding.

If this was such a fantastic piece of kit for what is essentialy a couple of quids worth of metal, why didn't Volvo fit it from day 1?

[Al115]

'cos most Volvo drivers don't give a toss? :D

[Wombatbomb]

I think the people that are giving glowing reports of a huge difference have suspension or handling issues that the brace is hiding.

Large assumption there. Mine is fitted with Koni top adjustables, Apex springs, and has new top mounts etc. The strut mount does make a noticeable difference. As has been said already in this thread, just because you don't think something makes a difference, doesn't mean anyone else that does is imagining things.

[MrMark]

Sorry - you're right!

This modification is without doubt the best modification you can do to your car. Everyone should buy one!

When did I say you were imagining things? What I actually said is you've got more money than sense!

[jonno12]

I wondered what those weld lines were. :confused:

:lol:


found it yet rob lol

[Yosser]

If this was such a fantastic piece of kit for what is essentialy a couple of quids worth of metal, why didn't Volvo fit it from day 1?

I sort of agree with you, but I also think that if it were such a waste of time why did Volvo themselves offer this part?

FWIW I have fitted a genuine volvo strut brace to my p1 V70 and I can't say I've noticed much of a difference (apart from various bits around the back of the engine are more of a pain to get at ;) )

[V70R999]

I think the people that are giving glowing reports of a huge difference have suspension or handling issues that the brace is hiding.

If this was such a fantastic piece of kit for what is essentialy a couple of quids worth of metal, why didn't Volvo fit it from day 1?


All our traffic V70/S60's over the last 7 odd years have had them fitted new by Volvo. Maybe they just had some spare metal lying around ? :tank:

[jonno12]

Trust me, there are no issues in any shape or form with my car, it is perfect for want of a better word and every is in tip top condition.

I don't know why Volvo didn't fit it at the factory, but it's strange that it's available as a Volvo genuine part rather than being made solely by aftermarket companies. :confused:

Still as I said, works for me. :)


well im gonna be ordering one tomorrow morning

[MrMark]

well im gonna be ordering one tomorrow morning

Volvo have caught another one!

http://www.sas.usace.army.mil/lakes/thurmond/images/lady%20fishing.jpg

[jonno12]

well thats your choice mark would be good to keep opinions to ya self tho dont you think

[MrMark]

if everyone kept their opinions to theirself then you would be staring at an empty screen!

youve made your mind up to buy one based on someone saying how good they are so its only fair you hear how pointless someone thinks they are!

i found with this fitted it made the car torque steer like crazy! the only time i noticed the slightest improvement was braking very hard from very stupid speeds! steering and handling was otherwise as you were!

[snoop69]

i dont recall it making any difference when i fitted mine.....

Corner a bit harder then bud :B_steerin


The brace, there just isn't room for the sock.

:lol:

Get bigger pants :lol:

Seriously though - my strut brace got rid of the 'wallow' i felt through
the twistys.

Felt a bit like fitting slightly stiffer springs to me :B_thumb:

[volvokid]

Corner a bit harder then bud :B_steerin



Get bigger pants :lol:

Seriously though - my strut brace got rid of the 'wallow' i felt through
the twistys.

Felt a bit like fitting slightly stiffer springs to me :B_thumb:

I will say I haven’t tried it round the twisty roads, but straight line acceleration with gentle bends I felt allot of torque steer, is like driving a VXR lol

[Filterlab]

You know, sometimes I wonder why I even bother posting stuff up on here.

Next mod I do I'll keep it to myself.

[snoop69]

the only time i noticed the slightest improvement was braking very hard from very stupid speeds! steering and handling was otherwise as you were!

But there WAS an improvement!

Im sure i could have tightened up my front suspension by spending
a couple of hundred on new shocks,bushes etc but for the £40
i spent on a nearly new one im not complaining :)

[MisterC1501]

I also have the back one which should hopefully stop the car twisting and biting back like my dads car..

Not seen a rear strut brace before. Does it fit in the load bay and is it intrusive?

Is the rear brace a genuine Volvo accessory or an aftermarket "specialist" product.

Any piccies of this Martyn?

[PNuT]

But there WAS an improvement!



has anyone said there is no improvement whatsoever? i have read all sorts of claims about strutbraces over the last couple of years..... most of which in my opinion are somewhat exaggerated ;) obviously it will stop wheel spin with 250 horses :D

[PNuT]

Partsforvolvos have one: Here (http://www.partsforvolvosonline.com/product_info.php?cPath=28_454&products_id=5930)

http://www.partsforvolvosonline.com/images/large_images/905931_large.jpg

ive just ordered one

[PNuT]

850, V70 Estates up to 2000, Rear Strut Brace

Click to enlarge

QBM Rear Strut Brace

To Fit: Volvo 850, V70 Series, up to 2000, Estates.

This high quality Strut Brace improves the rigidity of the vehicle by fixing the rear chassis rails together on the seat belt fixing points, limiting movement, so improving the overall handling and giving a better "feel".This brace is a must for cars with lowered suspension!

Made from thick walled tubing and TIG welded for strength. All fittings included and can be fitted in minutes. The brace fits completely under the floor and does not restrict access to the spare wheel. (can not be fitted in conjunction with the rear facing seat)


is reading beyond people these days?

[PNuT]

looking at the part 80 quid looks alot! im sure someone could make them for cheaper!!!!

[PNuT]

http://www.quickbrickmotorsports.com/installdocs/wagon_rear_crossbrace.pdf

[Alan M]

When I'm back at work next week I will mke one and see how it turns out. I reckon I can make them and sell them at good prices.

[Major Frank Squiff]

I am glad it wasn't my imagination after all. When I fitted a strut brace to my 1995 T5 Auto estate I found the difference was amazing. Being an old fool (53) I have fitted many so called tuning devices to various cars over the years and this one has made the most difference. What was even better was it only took me 15 minutes! The only drawback is that I now want to go out and play in the car even more than I did before!

"We don't stop playing because we get old, we get old because we stop playing."

[y2blade]

When I'm back at work next week I will mke one and see how it turns out. I reckon I can make them and sell them at good prices.

keep me informed :)

[PNuT]

when i'm back at work next week i will mke one and see how it turns out. I reckon i can make them and sell them at good prices.

:biggrin:

[paullus]

Filterlab your decision to fit a strut brace was a good one. The latest Volvos I've seen have got them fitted as standard. Rally cars have them fitted. It was one of the first mods the Escort and Cortina rally boys fitted donkeys years ago because it was a cheap, simple and effective way to sharpen up the handling. It's a time proven modification.
What it won't do though is improve the handling on a car that has underlying faults such as tired shocks, worn suspension bushes, wrong tyre pressures etc. etc. ;)

[Wobbly Dave]

Does it really make that much off a difference? I have a C70 and it does seem a bit wobbly for such a sporty car. I gunned mine down a slip road last week and when I realised I was going a bit fast and should brake (95mph), I could feel the back end trying to step out, It got a bit exciting and I haven't done it since. If this thing really does tighten it up then it might be worth investing in one, while we are both in one piece.

I've spent loads on getting the handling right on the C70. And to be honest mine is spot on now.

I run strut brace, Eibach prokit springs, Koni FSD dampers, IPD Anti roll bars. I've experimented with beefier drop links (from QBM) but they were a disaster.

[Tomcat]

I've experimented with beefier drop links (from QBM) but they were a disaster.

Would that be because you weren't using any dust boots over the rosejoints?

[PNuT]

there is no such thing as perfect where cars are involved....

[PNuT]

Maybe there is no such thing as perfect where your cars are involved.

maybe your standards are lower than mine....

[Filterlab]

PNuT, may I ask what your problem is? Do you have a problem with me personally or is it all forum users in general?

I've noticed that every post you put on this forum is either derogatory or insulting and of very little (if any at all) value. You seem to take every opportunity to disagree with anything and everything that anybody says at any time about any subject and you never say anything positive, complimentary or encouraging.

I just wonder what your reasons are for using this forum; do you belittle everything and everyone for a specific reason, or to make yourself feel superior or is it something more deep seated and psychological?

I've noticed that all the members on here (except you) enjoy chatting about everything Volvo related and offer constructive comments about members' cars, some have a humourous edge to their posts, others technically insightful. So why must there be an exception (i.e. you) who has to diminish the tone?

:confused:

[PNuT]

PNuT, may I ask what your problem is? Do you have a problem with me personally or is it all forum users in general?

I've noticed that every post you put on this forum is either derogatory or insulting and of very little (if any at all) value. You seem to take every opportunity to disagree with anything and everything that anybody says at any time about any subject and you never say anything positive, complimentary or encouraging.

I just wonder what your reasons are for using this forum; do you belittle everything and everyone for a specific reason, or to make yourself feel superior or is it something more deep seated and psychological?

I've noticed that all the members on here (except you) enjoy chatting about everything Volvo related and offer constructive comments about members' cars, some have a humourous edge to their posts, others technically insightful. So why must there be an exception (i.e. you) who has to diminish the tone?

:confused:

ok, your car is perfect in every way & everyone Else's is a heap of sht....

i however will continue to live in my realistic world that a car with 100k miles on isn't going to be *perfect*

you appeared to be suggesting that peoples cars were less well maintained than yours? if they were not getting the same effects from a front strut brace as you! what knowledge of my car or others are you basing this conclusion on?

if you expect me to sit back & read that kind of rubbish without commenting then you are clearly living in cloud cuckoo land.....

if you don't like my posts put me on ignore :biggrin:

[Justin]

ok, your car is perfect in every way & everyone Else's is a heap of sht....

i however will continue to live in my realistic world that a car with 100k miles on isn't going to be *perfect*

you appeared to be suggesting that peoples cars were less well maintained than yours? if they were not getting the same effects from a front strut brace as you! what knowledge of my car or others are you basing this conclusion on?

if you expect me to sit back & read that kind of rubbish without commenting then you are clearly living in cloud cuckoo land.....

if you don't like my posts put me on ignore :biggrin:

I think thats your interpretation Pnut, its certainly not how i read it.

Its not a case of perfect in its true sense, more perfect for filterlab :)

Chill please guys.

[Filterlab]

Thanks Justin. My words then I'm chilled :) :


ok, your car is perfect in every way & everyone Else's is a heap of sht....

Read my posts carefully and please quote all the times I've said that everyone else's car is a "heap of sh*t".


i however will continue to live in my realistic world that a car with 100k miles on isn't going to be *perfect*

Well mine is in perfect condition, i.e. no problems, no defects, all parts in superb working order - but of course you've owned and driven my car so you'll know it inside out.


you appeared to be suggesting that peoples cars were less well maintained than yours if they were not getting the same effects from a front strut brace as you!

I appear to be suggesting that only to you, nobody else has even hinted that I've said anything bordering on that.


what knowledge of my car or others are you basing this conclusion on?

I have no knowledge of your car, and I've never suggested I have in any way or form. Again, please quote me if I have.


if you expect me to sit back & read that kind of rubbish without commenting then you are clearly living in cloud cuckoo land.....

Have I mentioned that I expect you to sit back and read that without commenting? No. Quote me if I have though.


if you don't like my posts put me on ignore :biggrin:

Hooray! The first decent thing you've said in 239 posts.

[PNuT]

I think thats your interpretation Pnut, its certainly not how i read it.

Its not a case of perfect in its true sense, more perfect for filterlab :)

Chill please guys.

im always chilled.... however i have been helpful to a few members within my 240 posts so find filterlabs comments somewhat offensive ;)

[Filterlab]

Offensive. LMAO! :lol:

[PNuT]

i guess i should remember to use the quote facility.... the topics dont make much sence when people keep editing & deleting posts

[Filterlab]

i guess i should remember to use the quote facility.... the topics dont make much sence when people keep editing & deleting posts

What's "sence"?

If my posts are followed by rubbish and insults then why leave them up?

[PNuT]

What's "sence"?

If my posts are followed by rubbish and insults then why leave them up?

where have i insulted you? i said there was no such thing as perfect

[Al115]

Same old record. Thread closed.