Installing a front sway bar

By Brian A. Marks with permission from Kevin Li





Tools Required:
  • 13mm socket (one regular and one deep socket) if using stock end link bushings
  • 14mm socket (one regular and one deep socket) if using Energy Suspension end link bushings
  • 15mm socket for midpoint bushings (either stock or Energy Suspension)
  • 18mm deep socket for tie-rod end nuts
  • Torque wrench
  • Jack stands
  • Lug wrench
  • Jack
  • Proper jacking points: please see the documentation from the Helm's manuals here: Page 1 / Page 2

Parts Required
  • Front sway bar
  • End link bushings
  • Midpoint bushings

The Upgrade

  1. Properley support the vehicle on both sides using the jack points shown above.
  2. Remove both front wheels.
  3. Remove the end link and mid point bushings from the existing bar.
  4. Remove the tie-rod end from one side of the vehicle (passenger side is fine).
  5. Turn the stock bar up and out of the tie-rod and pull the bar out.
  6. Install the new sway bar in reverse.
  7. Make sure the "V" part of the bar is pointing up. It should be at the center of the bar if properly installed and ends up looking like an upside-down "V".
  8. Install the end link and midpoint bushings on the bar - if your midpoint bushings are fitted with zerk fittings, line the bushing with grease first and use a grease gun after installation to properly grease the bar. If not, thoroughly lube the bushing before installing it. End link bushings do not need to be lubricated.
  9. Tighten one side first as follows:
    • Torque the tie-rod end to 22 lb-ft (plus 120 degrees of turn - check your shop manual to be sure)
    • Torque the midpoint bushing to 35 lb-ft
    • Torque the end link bushing to 17 lb-ft
  10. Support the other side's wheel and properly torque as noted above. A good way to do this is to put a jack under the control arm as shown in the page 2 of the proper jack points shown above.
  11. If you have zerk fittings, lubricate the midpoint bushings now.
  12. Reinstall the wheels and torque to 100 lb-ft.
  13. Test drive the vehicle and listen for squeaks and rattles. If you hear any, make sure that the bushings are greased properly. Only the midpoint bushings need lubrication.