didn't get loads done today – got the front CV's out and stopped there. I decided to pull the entire hub assembly because I've got suspension work to do anyway.

Just popped in to post another pic of my shed




I like how you can move it anywhere you like....
4 days later
As I've got to do my strut tower mounts, control arm bushes, etc etc, think i might bang in some Eibach's after all..

I want to keep the ride supple (it's a bit crashy atm due to worn bits), so might "pair" them with some Bilstein Touring's. Obviously these are just a standard shock, rather than HD, but I think it'll probably be fine, no?

Just the 2.5ton on them after all.

If I put Bilstein HD's in my wife will hate me.

Whatcha reckon gang?
Keep it comfy, it just isn't a sports car and ride is a priority.
yeah absolutely, no way I am putting the HD's in. Do you think the Eibach springs (~30mm lowering) would harshen the ride that considerably?

Eibach's always get a very good write up.

My main concern to be honest is that the tailgate hatch might be a bit low when open – I already hit my head on it.
Anything to lower these would be good. But they are 1.8ttare and 2.5t gross aren't they?
yeah I might be overemphasising there, just know people talk about OEM shocks taking a pounding with lowering springs, even in light(er) cars! But i mean, 30mm, gotta be in engineering tolerances :P

Think i might guinea pig it, not much info out there..
OK, decided to go for the Eibach's.


You could talk to Ash about the technical side of getting what you want to achieve suspension side.
2046kg Kerb weight.

I plan to install the ipd sway bars on mine and leave all else oem (including oem replacement where needed). Only problem I have with the ride is the sway. Ipd comments give me confidence it's a good way to go.
I suggest leaving the nivos up the back if still good.
Engine is out!

Once I had everything disconnected I dropped the front as low as I could on stands. Realised I'd need to remove the bonnet, bit of a pain because I know it'll be a bugger to align later.











Nasty oilyness under the cover, plugs 3-5 look pretty wet.


Again it came out pretty easy, I think the XC90 has a few tighter areas than the S60 had – bit more bulkhead intrusion I think.

And again, the biggest pain was removing the downpipe. The heat shield is in the way from the top, despite my best efforts couldn't move it out the way. And those bolts are in tight. One of them sheared in the turbo housing :angry:

Anyway, on to the fun stuff, though not looking forward to lowering an engine back in – it's going to be a challenge!

A challenge you are up to!
You're secretly a pro aren't you.
fake it til you make it!
having a crack at removing the front subframe today.

Looks simple enough but I suspect it's bloody heavy. I'll jack it down on a big chunk of wood. I've chucked the crossmember above the engine back in, so I can tie the steering rack to it..

Bodgefest!
One subframe



I had two lengths of timber horizontally jacked against it with a third length ways, then removed the subframe bolts.


Lunch today = scrubbing good times, subframe is slowly becoming de-gunked.

Removed the control arms and the fat anti-roll bar for the job, they're getting a clean up too. Might replace the ARB bushings while off.

Need to work out where I can get the new subframe and control arm bushes pressed in. Meh. Guess I'll be adding a press to my list of self-sufficient-must-haves!

or I'll be building one of these...
http://www.suspension.com/blog/how-to-install-a-bushing-without-a-press/

Soak subframe in cans of degreeser then use pressure washer on it and will come up clean
best google "home made pressure washer" too, then
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