So I been thinking about starting this thread for some time. The goal will be to improve the stock sway bar set up with minimal out of pocket expenditure for anyone else wanting to get about 10% to maybe 15% stiffer rate from the stock bar and a relatively cheap bushing replacement. I will be posting the modifications as I go along.
(1) replacement of stock bushings with easy to source polyurethane replacements.
(2) wider steel bushing bracket.
Note: I will be modifying these brackets to increase rigidity and strength. An improvement over the stock brackets.
(3) modify the stock sway bar with new mounting holes that will improve the stiffness of the bar.
The first two I will get started this weekend but the third will have to be on hold until extra OE sway bars are in my possession.
To start off here are pictures of the brackets and bushings I will be using. They are from a common bushing kit that can be found at most parts stores. I purchased these on the way home tonight from Advance Auto.
I paid $23 but found them on line for as little as $15.
Energy Suspension part number 9.5165R
These are the red versions and I believe the black are part number 9.5165G. they are designed for the factory bar ID (1.25").
They are also greasable. A big plus for poly bushings.
I will be welding trusses to the stamped brackets to help increase the rigidity but the Energy Suspension parts can be installed as is. The bushing and bracket are almost 1/2" wider than stock so the supplied bracket should be used.
More to come.