If you own a Plymouth Volare (or its rebadged sibling, the Dodge Aspen), you know that finding the right front suspension parts can be a challenge. These M-body cars from the late 1970s and early 1980s are now classics, and many front suspension components are prone to wear. This guide covers the essential Volare front suspension parts, common problems, and practical advice for sourcing quality replacements.
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Understanding the Volare Front Suspension Design
The Volare uses a torsion bar front suspension—a common setup for Chrysler products of that era. Instead of coil springs, torsion bars run from the lower control arm to a crossmember. The front suspension consists of upper and lower control arms, ball joints, tie rods, sway bar, strut rods, and the torsion bars themselves. All these parts work together to provide ride comfort and steering control.
Common Wear Items
- Ball Joints: Upper and lower ball joints wear out over time. Symptoms include clunking noises over bumps or looseness in the steering.
- Tie Rod Ends: Inner and outer tie rods can develop play, leading to vague steering and uneven tire wear.
- Strut Rod Bushings: The strut rod connects the lower control arm to the chassis. Deteriorated bushings cause steering wander and noise.
- Sway Bar Bushings & Links: These rubber parts dry out and crack, resulting in body roll and clunks.
- Torsion Bars: While durable, the adjustable height bolts can rust, making alignment difficult. The bars themselves rarely fail.
- Upper Control Arm Bushings: Worn bushings cause alignment issues and noise.
Key Volare Front Suspension Parts to Consider
1. Upper and Lower Ball Joints
Ball joints are critical for safety. For the Volare, upper ball joints are pressed into the control arm, while lower ball joints are bolted on. Make sure to get the correct type: some aftermarket parts are for the police/taxi package with heavy-duty components. Moog and TRW are reliable brands. Check that the part includes a grease fitting for longevity.
- Upper ball joint: Usually part #K7200 or equivalent.
- Lower ball joint: Often part #K7210 or #K7211 (left/right specific).
2. Tie Rod Ends
Inner and outer tie rods should be replaced in pairs. The Volare uses a center link design, so you will need two outer tie rods and two inner tie rods. Adjustable sleeves allow toe-in adjustment. Look for forged steel rather than cast iron for strength.
- Outer tie rod: Common part #DS977 or #DS978.
- Inner tie rod: Part #DS849 or similar.
3. Strut Rod Bushings
The strut rod (or tension rod) has two bushings: one at the crossmember and one at the lower control arm. Replacing both cures steering wander. Use polyurethane bushings for better durability and a firmer feel. Do not forget the large washer and retaining nut.
- Strut rod bushing kit: Often includes the crossmember bushing (cushion) and the lower control arm bushing (grommet).
4. Sway Bar Parts
The factory sway bar is 1.125 inches on most Volares. Replacement bushings and end links are widely available. Polyurethane bushings reduce body roll. Make sure to measure your sway bar diameter before ordering.
- Sway bar bushings: 1-1/8" diameter, sold in pairs.
- End links: Small link with bushings and sleeves.
5. Upper Control Arms
Complete upper control arms with pre-installed bushings and ball joints save time. However, you can also buy just the bushings and ball joints separately. If your control arm shaft threads are rusted or stripped, a new assembly is easier.
6. Lower Control Arms
Lower control arms rarely need replacement unless bent. But the pivot bushings (at the chassis side) can wear. Replacing them requires a press. Some aftermarket arms come with upgraded bushings.
7. Torsion Bar Adjustment and Parts
The torsion bar adjuster bolt and swivel can seize. If you need to raise or lower ride height, free up the threads with penetrating oil. Replacement adjuster bolts and anchor housings are available. Do not overtighten—adjustment is made via the bolt length.
How to Choose Quality Parts
When shopping for Volare front suspension parts, pay attention to materials. Original equipment (OE) style rubber bushings give a softer ride but wear faster. Polyurethane offers longer life and better handling but may transmit more road noise. Moog is known for quality rubber parts that meet or exceed OE specs. For performance, Energy Suspension or Prothane make polyurethane kits.
Avoid no-name or unbranded parts. Suspension components are safety-critical. Look for parts that are made in the USA or have a warranty. Check the part number against your car's build date—some early Volares have different ball joint tapers.
Installation Considerations
Replacing front suspension parts on a Volare requires basic mechanical skill and specialty tools: a ball joint press, pry bars, and a torque wrench. Many parts come with grease fittings; make sure to grease them after assembly. Alignment is mandatory after replacing tie rods, ball joints, or control arms.
If you are doing partial repairs, replace both sides at the same time for consistent handling. Rust is a common issue on old M-bodies; heat and penetrating oil are your friends.
Final Recommendation
For a daily driver Volare, stick with Moog suspension parts for reliability and fit. If you plan to autocross or want a stiffer ride, consider a mix: Moog ball joints and tie rods with polyurethane sway bar and strut rod bushings. Always replace hardware (nuts, bolts, cotter pins) with new ones. A full front suspension rebuild kit can save money and ensure compatibility.
Remember that the Volare shares many parts with the Dodge Aspen and some with the Chrysler LeBaron. When in doubt, reference your VIN or measure the old part. Good quality Volare front suspension parts will keep your classic driving safely for years.