FCP Groton - OEM vs After Market Suspension Products

Discussion in 'General Motoring' started by Jamie, Mar 9, 2006.

  1. Jamie

    Jamie Guest

    I need to replace most of my front end suspension, including tie-rods,
    ball joints, etc. FCP Groton has OEM and After Market products and I
    wanted to know if anyone can recommend the After Markets.

    The After Market ball joints are less than 1/2 of the TRW ($13.50 vs
    $32) and the almost the same for tie rod ends ($9 vs $15).

    By themselves the price isn't all that much, but when you start adding
    up the parts, the savings can make a difference.

    Are the after markets just as good or should I go with the OEMs?

    Thanks!
     
    Jamie, Mar 9, 2006
    #1
  2. Jamie

    GW Guest

    For those parts, I would go with the TRW parts. They are generally known
    good. If you're worried about the price, just call the Volvo dealer, and
    then you'll feel much better!

    And for ANY suspension part or engine mounts, never, ever, buy anything
    made by Scan-Tech or MTC. EVER!

    You didn't grow up in Brookline, did you?

    Greg
     
    GW, Mar 9, 2006
    #2
  3. Jamie

    Jamie Guest

    Thanks for the feedback. I don't think I bought anything by Scan Tech
    or MTC, but i'll double check.

    I never heard of Brookline, I'm outside of Dallas, TX.

    Thanks,
    JB
     
    Jamie, Mar 9, 2006
    #3
  4. Jamie

    Jamie Guest

    I just checked and I did purchase an exhaust manifold gasket set by
    Scan-tech and an oil pan gasket and breather box hose to oil pan, by
    MTC from FCP Groton.
     
    Jamie, Mar 9, 2006
    #4
  5. Jamie

    GW Guest

    Well, I meant suspension parts in particular. I have used some Scan-tech
    gaskets that seemed to be ok. It kind of depends on what parts you are
    buying. The MTC parts seem to be even worse than the Scam-tech parts in
    general. I had an MTC headlight switch (for a 240) that lasted about 5
    months. The original part had lasted about 17 years. Go figure.

    Greg
     
    GW, Mar 9, 2006
    #5
  6. You should not need to replace the mechanical components of the suspension,
    such as tie rods. It should only be necessary to replace the bushings (three
    per side) ball joints (one per side) and sway bar bushings and link rods
    (link rods are available in kits, one per side, support bushings available
    seperately, two needed). If there is any problem with the upper strut
    mounting bushes they can also be replaced. Don't forget that there are
    replaceable bushings on the rear suspension, as well as Panhard rod bushings
    and the bushings in the shock absorber eyes). You will be pleasantly
    surprised at the difference in stability with new bushings all round,
    besides being a lot cheaper on the wallet.

    All the best, Peter.

    700/900/90 Register Keeper,
    Volvo Owners Club (UK).
     
    Peter K L Milnes, Mar 10, 2006
    #6
  7. Jamie

    Jamie Guest

    Thanks Peter. This is exactly what I was needing to know, because I saw
    where some things only need the bushing parts replaced and not the
    whole thing.

    I plan to do a 360 degree sweep - tires, shocks, struts and everything
    that wears out in between.
     
    Jamie, Mar 10, 2006
    #7
  8. Jamie

    Jamie Guest

    Also,
    I left VLV World out because initially they were more expensive than
    FCP's cheapest. Now, they fall about in the middle of FCP's aftermarket
    and OEM.

    BUT, VLV World doesn't list the manufacturer.

    Then there is IPD.

    So, any recommendations for FCP, IPD or VLV for these suspension parts?

    Thanx
     
    Jamie, Mar 10, 2006
    #8
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