The sway bar plays a vital role in your car’s suspension system. It connects the two wheels on the same axle and helps to reduce body roll when cornering.
Over time, the bar links can wear out or break, causing popping sounds or a loose feeling in the rear suspension. If you need to change the old bar links, you’ll need a sway bar link removal tool.
In today’s article, we’ll show you how to use this special tool to do your job with ease.
What Does The Sway Bar End Link Removal Tool Do?
The sway bar removal tool is specialized to detach and install sway bar links in a modern vehicle’s suspension system.
The link bolt connects the sway bar to the control arm or strut and helps to stabilize the car’s body during cornering.
The sway bar link removal allows you to safely and efficiently remove the bad links and install new ones without damaging the sway bar or other components of the suspension system.
The special purpose tool fits over the sway bar link and provides leverage to loosen it from the control arm or strut, making changing bar end links much easier and faster.
How To Use The Sway Bar Link Removal Tool?
How to change sway bar links? Removing the sway bar link tool can simplify the job with just some actions:
Preparation and Tools
Before you begin, make sure you prepare the basic tools and equipment.
You will need a sway bar link removal tool, a socket set, a wrench, and a jack plus jack stands or a floor jack (whatever you feel comfortable with).
Also, it is a good idea to wear safety glasses and gloves.
Here are some important notes to keep in mind before removing sway bar links:
- Use penetrant oil, not silicone or water dispersant.
- Measure ride height before service.
- Removing the wheel is recommended for better access.
- Make sure old and new parts match the dimensions before attachment.
Procedure
Raise The Car
To do this, choose a level surface, locate the jack points, position the jack, and slowly raise the vehicle. Once it’s lifted, place jack stands under it to support the automobile while you work.
Locate The Broken Sway Bar Link
Look for the sway bar, a thick metal bar that runs horizontally under the front or rear of your automobile.
Moreover, you can identify the sway bar links by looking for the connecting point between the sway bar and the control arm or strut.
Position The Removal Tool
How to replace sway bar link?
To position the removal tool over the sway bar link, choose the correct tool with the right size and type for your specific vehicle and make sure it fits snugly around it.
Place the tool’s jaws over the old link, lining them up correctly with the flats of the sway bar link.
Then, adjust the position of the removal applicant as necessary to ensure it’s in the right place and can be turned with a socket wrench.
Tighten The Tool
To tighten the proper tool around the sway bar link, use a wrench to secure it snuggly.
This will prevent the sway bar link from moving during removal or replacement, making the job easier and more efficient.
Remove The Sway Bar Link
How to remove sway bar links? Use a socket wrench to turn the tool counterclockwise and loosen the link from the control arm or strut.
Once it’s loose, take the sway bar end link out and inspect it for wear or damage.
Installing Sway Bar Links
Insert the new link into the sway bar, control arm, or strut, and tighten the nuts with a wrench and socket wrench. Lower the automobile, remove the jack stands, and pull the nuts again.
When Should You Replace The Sway Bar Link?
Here are some warning signs indicate that you should change a new tool for your car:
- Clunking or knocking noises: If you hear a knocking or clunking noise, especially from the rear, when driving over bumps or turning, it may be a sign that your sway bar link is worn or damaged.
- Uneven tire wear: A subpar sway bar link can cause uneven tire wear, affecting your vehicle’s handling and safety.
- Reduced handling and stability: If your car is not handling as well as it used to, or if you experience reduced strength while driving, it may be a sign that your sway bar link needs to be replaced.
Replacing a faulty sway bar link ensures that your automobile’s suspension part performs nicely and maintains a safe and stable ride.
FAQs
Can I Change The Sway Bar Links On My Own?
Yes.
If you have experience working on cars and feel confident in your ability to do the job, you can likely change the sway bar links independently.
You’ll need the right tools, including a sway bar link tool, socket set, wrench, jack, and jack stands.
On the other hand, if you are not experienced in working on cars, leave the job to a professional mechanic. They have the knowledge and expertise to complete the job safely and effectively.
Is Removing The Sway Bar Links Safe?
Yes. Removing the sway bar links can be safe with the right tools and proper procedures.
Following the correct steps is important when removing the sway bar links to avoid damaging the sway bar or other suspension components.
This includes using the proper tools, positioning the removal tool correctly, and tightening the applicant securely before turning it counterclockwise to detach the link.
Hence, taking safety precautions and using appropriate personal protective equipment is vital.
Conclusion
A sway bar link removal tool is a straightforward and efficient way to change your car’s suspension component.
By consulting the steps outlined in this article, you can do this job yourself and save money on labor costs.
Always remember to work safely and take proper safety requirements when working on your car.