CAREFUL, THE HARDWARE SUPPLIED MAY NOT BE METRIC!!!

Didn't see a specific enough thread, so here goes:

Looking for people who've changed front or rear sway bar end link bushings...anyone notice these issues?

http://www.energysuspensionparts.com...2E8134%5FRear#

9.8134B Rear Rear Sway Bar End Links
9.8134R Rear Rear Sway Bar End Links


I'm pretty happy with the bushings themselves (size/material). Having said that...

Biggest issue to watch out for - when you look at the instructions for the rear links, it says to use their supplied bolt at the bottom, which screws into the hub. Problem is, the bolts/nuts supplied are SAE, not metric. I noticed right away because of the strength marks on the bolt head, then compared with the factory hardware.

If someone is less experienced or doesn't notice or read the instructions, they may fluke out (i.e. reuse the old hardware) or damage the hub threads.

Also:

- as per instructions, you should have 6 cupped washers in the box, only 4 supplied.
- Bolt for the top link is way too long (more likely to interfere with frame or brake line), I'm switching it to a shorter METRIC one.

I was able to reuse the bolt at the bottom that threads into the hub, but I'm a bit disapointed.

Would it be that much more cost to include all replacement hardware, IN METRIC, and not have to reuse some hardware and have other in SAE/imperial?

Tips:

- edit, lol, but worth mentioning...have both wheels off the ground and the car safely supported on jackstands, since having only one side up will place tension on the side you're removing.
- as stated in instructions some links have a bigger bushing on one of the sides (top or bottom, don't remember). You'll notice this right away. It was like this in my '86. They include 8 smaller diameter bushings and 4 larger (because each bushing is a half), so you'll end up with either 4 large ones or small ones left over

- the black ones are graphite impregnated (self lubing to a degree, although lube is provided with the bushings)
- the red ones are not graphite impregnated
- ES says they're the same hardness

 

Can't edit...one more tip:

If the old bushings are hard to remove from the link 'dog bone', you can use a small dill bit to poke holes around between the link and inner bushing sleeve. Then clean off the traces of rubber and lastly use a torch to burn off the rest.

 

Great write up!
Im thinking of replacing the bushings in the fronts.
good info.

 

Hm, I don't recall having the bolt issue when I did mine. Perhaps they changed the kit?

 

Had I noticed it, (have not done yet) I would head to the hardware store and buy as needed. Sucks they are not providing the right thing though for a "vehicle specific kit".