Volvo Books Online - Bill Garland's Nuclear Engineering Page

Replacing Rear Bushings
The life span of the bushings shown is greatly affected by suspension design.
The lower trailing arm suspension bushings in 200-series cars bear considerable loads from the
movement of the heavy live axle assembly. The torque rod bushings in these cars are prone to rapid wear
as driveline torque twists the bushings during brisk acceleration.
Lower trailing arm bushings require replacement after five to seven years of normal driving. Stock torque
rod bushings should be replaced every three to five years, but polyurethane versions can last twice as
long provided that they are lubricated before installation.
The sub-frame in the 700-series cars does a much better job of controlling unwanted movement of the
axle assembly. As a result, 700-series torque rod bushings normally require replacement every five years,
whereas bushings elsewhere in the sub-frame should be replaced after about seven years of normal
driving.
The bushings used in Independent Rear Suspensions (IRS) generally last much longer than those used in
live and constant track axles. Increased life span is attributable to the lower unsprung weight of IRS
suspensions. When it does occur, wear is usually found in the track rod and lower training arm bushings.
These bushings should be replaced after five years of normal driving.
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Suspensions
Some of the tips listed below can be found in Volvo technical publications. Others, however, are based
on practical experience.
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