PatHenry

The main consideration on the bushing size is the diameter of the sway bar.

If the new bushing fit around the bar completely without space, it should be correct.

You do need to disconnect the end links so the bar is moveable to get the brackets back on.

gbkd80

The bushings did not fit all the way around. At first I thought they would just compress, but then the size difference occurred to me. I'm going to get new links and start over. Thanks for the help man. We'll see about this bolt though...

PatHenry

I'm trying to remember when I replaced mine.. I think there's a little bit of compression to get them on there, but it should be pretty obvious that the bushings are correct.

You can put antiseize on the bushings to lubricate them. Also rust tends to build up and can make the bar slightly bigger.

You might want to pick up a cheap impact at HF until you can get a good one - or borrow one from a friend.

If you were just a little bit closer I'd offer to lend a hand or an impact driver... lol

mikesweet33

Can anyone say how big of a difference a quality replacement steering gear would make? Like the expensive Redhead steering gears or a different quality unit?

gbkd80

I certainly do appreciate it. I decided tonight to go out to Harbor Freight and get some "necessities" which included a new 21 gallon 175PSI compressor, a modest 1/2" air impact wrench and some impact sockets, a digital caliper, a threaded-rivet tool kit and a 3lb hammer/sledge. I also went to Napa earlier and got the sway bar links to do the job right. I know it's Harbor Freight, and some of the stuff there really sucks (like the 14.00 socket set I bought for the emergency car kit) but I'll be honest, I haven't broken an HF tool yet in 10 years, and I've also been running a Central Machinery drill press that has been used constantly to drill out aluminum enclosures, and it's held up with no problem other than one belt replacement.

I'll post an update when I get around to finagling that bolt out or cut...

PatHenry

Hahaha, Nice! I was merely suggesting HF because I noticed they were selling a corded impact for like $25 that went up to like 250 ft/lbs. I think even a lightweight impact (I have a dewalt cordless impact that came with the drill that I use more than I would have thought) will have that bolt out pretty quickly.

An air compressor is always a good thing to have since there are so many air tools available for the entire spectrum of home and auto repair and once you have a decent compressor, the tool attachments are usually pretty inexpensive.

Gotyoulooking

I worked for a Small engine workshop (2 & 4 cycle) and all my air tools was from HF. Just oil them before every use and don't drop em. HF are ok for what you pay, just stay away from their electric handhelds unless in a pinch. I had the same problem with a sway bar bolt, so I just cut it and fished it out one of those small hole with a small magnet attached to a hanger wire. If the nut inside is still held up, you can use a punch to knock it out. I glued a nut and washer together and used the same magnet to bolt it back up. Also there is 2 sizes sway bar bushings, you want to make sure it fits snug, if you can buy both and just return the one you don't use.