Well 2 months into this Jeep purchase and I'm learning quite a bit. I've learned I probably should have kept looking. Anywho, I've switched out the steering damper and whilst under there was going to change out the sway bar links. Prior to this purchase the most mechanic work I've ever done is an oil change. Long story short, the sway bar links (due to rust) will not, have not, won't not break loose! Is there a secret to this stuff? I've soaked it with penetrating oil. From what it appears, all I should have to do is take out the bottom nut and top nut and I should be able to switch it out correct? I refuse to carry this job to a pro...I've got to learn how to do this stuff if I'm going to justify keeping this thing. Tools I"m trying include a socket wrench and standard wrench...is there something else I should be using?? Any advice appreciated.

 

Bottom swaybar link is PRESSED in.. Jeep just put that torx socket/bolt head there to mess with you. Presses out pretty easy with a C-clamp and deep socket.

 

What you have learned are the pitfalls of buying a 20 YEAR OLD used car.. That is a 20 year-old Jeep, which doesn't help.. The definition of JEEP is Just Empty Every Pocket, and that doesn't just refer to Modifications. If you don't already have one get a repair manual.. Basically if you can follow the instructions in a Haynes book you can do most anything you will ever need to on your Jeep, including most modifications. Or at least be able to know when you want to tackle a project or pay someone else.

 

I just made a post about this.

Whatcha need to do is go to a mechanics shop, ask if they have a air chisel, if so ask if you can use it to remove that lower bolt, it will take 1 second of work time, so even if they won't let you do it and charge you. It might cost a $1 at most. I bought the ability to use a air chisel for one 32 oz. coke
Give it a shot before bending the sway bar link mount thingy

 

unrelated, but I just realized while putting a new fuel filter in that there are NO fuses for anything ABS brake related...all 3 are missing - what on earth would cause a prior owner to take these out??? how bad should i be worried??

 

Hmmmm mine weren't pressed in on my 89. Is it the newer ones that are pressed?

 

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To change the links all you need to do is remove the nut. The bolt does not need to come out

 

What Wayned says x 10. Just removed the top nut that connects to the link to the sway bar. Then remove the bottom nut on the torx bolt and slide out the link. Soak the nuts in penetrating oil and then heat them up with a propane torch, like the ones they have a Home Depot for plumbing. A new link will run you about $10.