Sway Bar Link Replacement Tips
Article by Mark Trotta
Because they wear out so slowly, many car owners don't even realize how bad their front end bushings are until they begin to hear noises. Sway bar link bushings wear out the quickest, but fortunately they are inexpensive and relatively simple to replace.
Aside from wearing out with time, bushings can also get damaged by leaking engine oil or other fluid leak. If this has happened to yours, the leak should be repaired before replacing. Otherwise, the new bushings will quickly fail.
This article provides step by step instruction on how to replace sway bar links and bushings, the tools needed, plus any issues you may encounter while removing/installing.
Getting Started
Recently, I needed to replace the links and bushings on my 2008 Explorer Sport-Trac. This was done as it was parked on the driveway outside my garage.
Since it is a truck, it's a little taller than most cars, but I still needed to raise it up a bit.
If you're working from the ground, position a floor jack at the proper factory lift points, then place jack stands as close to the jack as possible. About a foot off the ground should be enough room to work.
Caution: Jacking one side at a time loads up the stabilizer bar, which will make the job even more difficult.
Can I Replace Sway Bar Links Without Removing Tires?
Tires do not need to be removed when replacing sway bar links, although it may give you a little more room to work.
Can You Replace Just One Side?
Yes you can, but they're relatively cheap, so why not replace the other one, as they generally wear out at the same time. So, although recommended to replace in pairs, one side may be changed without any difference in ride quality.
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Sway Bar and Components
The sway bar, frame bushings and clamps, end links and bushings make up the basic system.
Sway Bar Links vs Bushings
Metal clamps hold the rubber bushings onto the frame, and there are links on either end.
When driving straight down the road, the sway bar just rotates up and down in the bushings. These don't wear out as quickly as the outer links do.
A replacement sway bar link kit generally includes new bushings, washers, links (the long threaded studs), and nuts. Quite often, they'll be variations or upgrades from the original ones.
Rubber vs Polyurethane
Polyurethane bushings are an upgrade over original rubber type, and are often included with premium brands. They will last longer than rubber ones.
NOTE: When ordering replacement parts, specify sway bar link kit or sway bar bushings.
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How To Remove Sway Bar Links
Working on old cars means dealing with stuck nuts and bolts.
The first time I replaced stabilizer links was many years ago, before the advent of Youtube and the Internet. Not knowing any better, I tried to remove the old links with a ratchet and a wrench. This proved to be a waste of time.
I soon learned that most repair shops quickly remove them with an air-powered cut-off wheel.
Also effective is an electric angle grinder with a cutting disc.
A hacksaw will also work, but limited clearance is always a factor, and will take more time and effort than with electric or air tools.
TIP: A vice-grip locked onto the old link will keep it from spinning while you're cutting it off.
TIP: While cutting with air or power tools, slowly slice the link with the cut-off wheel, letting the tool do the work.
Do not force it to cut faster, as that will overheat the tool and the metal.
Several times, on old rusty cars, I have seen examples where the center bolt broke due to age and rust, making removal and replacement much easier!
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Installation
Problem: Top Nut Won't Thread On
Sometimes you can't compress the link bushings quite enough to thread the top nut on. If this happens, take a 2x4 block of wood and wedge it between the ground and the bottom of the link.
This should give you that little bit more of thread you need to install the top rubber, washers, and nut.
Once threaded on, the links can be tightened with a hand ratchet and wrench.
Do Not Over-Tighten
Manufacturers recommend tightening the nut until the bushing starts to bulge, then loosen 1/4 turn.
Don't over-tighten, it will make the new bushings wear out prematurely. Just tighten until the rubber starts to bulge.
Tools Needed For Installation
To install, you'll need a 3/8" drive ratchet and socket, and a wrench or two.
Also helpful is a block of wood and a kneeling pad.
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Notes and Misc
When working under a car or truck, wear gloves and safety glasses.
What Does A Sway Bar Actually Do?
You've probably noticed that when you steer hard into a turn, the body of the car wants to roll the other way. For example, when you make a sharp right turn, the car body rolls to the left.
To prevent this from happening, car manufacturers install sway bars (also called stabilizer bars or anti-roll bars), that connect the left side to the right side of the front suspension. Their function is to reduce body roll. They are often installed on the rear suspension as well.
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