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1985-1998 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
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Background info: '98 auto, Aero suspension, 225/50-16 wheels, poly rear sway bar bushings, poly front control arm bushings (rear ones only), new rubber front sway bar chassis bushings, new end-links.
I installed poly front sway bar end link bushings (made for a '64 Mustang, red in color, purchased at Pep Boys -- search the archives for the #) just over 3 years ago. At that time, I also installed all of the items mentioned above. Handling was tremendously improved, incredible steering response, less body lean in turns. This is due to all of the mods, not just the end-links. Ride comfort became much stiffer and harsher, but not unbearable.
I removed the poly end-link bushings after using them for 40K miles (mileage was 55K at installation). Reason for removal was due to the fact that the front sway bar ends became completely detached from the end-links themselves (not the end nut, but basically poking right through the top of the end-links). I believe this to have occurred due to the fact that the poly bottom bushings kept the end-links from moving, yet when the sway bar would move laterally, would push and pull against the rubber bushings in the top of the end-links. When I replaced the original end-links with rubber bushings at 57K miles, the top bushings were worn but not torn as was the case with these. The Mustang poly bushings were still in perfect condition, whereas the original rubber ones I replaced were definitely worn and tired.
Result: handling and steering response has now diminished. I can feel slightly more body lean in turns, and the wheels tend to "track" (follow cracks/grooves in the pavement) when they didn't before. Ride comfort has greatly improved. No more "banging" over bumps, and more compliant front-end feel. All other suspension mods are still in place and in good condition. I just did this replacement 1K miles ago.
Verdict: if looking for increased handling and steering response, go for the poly end-link busings. They're cheap (approx. $10 USD for a pack of 8 -- share with a friend since you only need 4) and extremely easy to install. Be warned, though, that the end-link top bushings will not last long (although I changed mine with 40K miles on them, I had noticed the problem starting around 20K miles) and the ride will become firmer. I know of no supplier that carries end-links with the top bushing in poly.
Joe
'98 95K
'93 900TC 137K
posted by 12.111....
, Wed, 7 Dec 2005 15:57:37
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