Are Chassis Braces for You?

Disclaimer: Direct from ipd’s Tech Tip archive!  This tech tip contains information from previous publications.  Products mentioned may not be available or the information may not be accurate due to changes in supply, manufacturing, or part number association.  Please contact ipd Customer Support if you have further questions.

Upper and lower chassis braces improve chassis rigidity enhancing driver feedback and sharpening handling performance as well as improving ride quality. How can a rigid chassis improve ride quality? The chassis is the foundation of your Volvo and all suspension functions are transmitted through it. Chassis flex is experi-enced by the driver as vague or inconsistent responsiveness to steering and brake inputs and an unsettling feel when driving hard. As the suspension reacts to irregularities in the road surface such as potholes, bridge joints, railroad tracks, driveways etc. The shock or impact can be imparted to the chassis via flex. Ideally these obsta-cles are soaked up by the tires, shocks, springs and bushings of the car, but some of the energy can be trans-mitted to the chassis and is felt as body shake and shudder during chassis flex. During enthusiastic or spirited driving, chassis flex can be experienced as poor response to steering input. Another common characteristic is the inability of the car to take a smooth "set" in long sweeping corners requiring constant correction to hold the line. In extreme cases, the flex can be severe enough to alter wheel alignment while under load, signifi-cantly reducing the cornering ability.

We generally recommend braces be installed after anti sway bars and performance shocks for the driver that wants the improved precision feel they can provide. Our upper and lower brace packages are the best upgrade as you get a compound effect with the braces and you'll also save a few bucks off of the individual brace pric-ing. We have quite a bit if experience with Volvo suspension grades, so feel free to call us if you'd like more info on making your Volvo handle better.