UMI front sway bar fitment problem

**xmarkx** · 07-28-2010, 10:05 PM

I'm trying to install the umi front sway bar and I'm following the directions. when I put the endlink through the sway bar, the bolt is not long enough to even go through the top bushing let alone the washer and then the nut. I tried both sides and it's the same on both.

my question is, would it be ok if I shortened the spacers on the endlinks with a saw or a grinder so the bolt can go all the way through?

also I have umi lower A arms on the car as well

**UMI Performance** · 07-29-2010, 06:04 AM

Hello,

This is a common issue due to the stiffness of the new polyurethane end link bushings and the size of the new away bar. Here is some tips--

First, do not cut the spacer... the length of the spacer is crucial as it controls the rotation and height of the sway bar. So again, do not cut this.

To install it might help to have a buddy to assist you you. Place a jack with a piece of wood under the head of the bolt and jack up on the bolt. While you are doing this have a buddy use a pry bar on the sway bar and push down on the bar, this should get enough threads sticking out to start the nut.

Once you get the nut started move to the other side before turning it to far on. Basically with out doing this the suspension is unloaded causing the A-Arms to hang making the end link to appear too short. With the suspension loaded the end links are the correct length.

Once both nuts are started tighten them with the suspension loaded until the bushings just begin to bulge.

If you need anymore assistant let me know. Thanks!
Ryan

**xmarkx** · 07-29-2010, 08:22 AM

I will try that and then post my results imediately. thankyou for your quick response. I would of called first rather than posting it on the board, but it was late last night and I was hoping someone would have a quick answer

**pajeff02** · 07-29-2010, 08:26 AM

Just as UMI stated, you have to account for the suspension drop when the front end is in the air. I used an undercar stand with a screwjack to re-install my swaybar after it was removed for painting. Just be careful that whatever you utilize is secure and does not kick out on you.

**xmarkx** · 07-30-2010, 11:54 PM

I have it all bolted up now. I just have to finish the rest of the suspension until l I can put it down and tighten up the end links. jacking under the bolt helped alot. still a tight squeeze but it worked

**JoshuaGrooms83** · 12-14-2010, 02:05 PM

What i found when working on sway links is that a drive on lift works great for this problem. Some of these also come with built in lift to assist with it. Thats if you have access to a lift of course, but a little driveway ramps should work too.

**davidz28** · 12-19-2010, 11:11 AM

when installing mine i cut them down a little..... now i wonder if i should buy some new ones

**Smittro** · 12-19-2010, 09:30 PM

Originally Posted by davidz28

when installing mine i cut them down a little..... now i wonder if i should buy some new ones

I would..

**davidz28** · 12-22-2010, 05:35 PM

Originally Posted by Smittro

I would..

you think a 1/4 inch would really make much difference?

**Smittro** · 12-23-2010, 12:59 AM

Originally Posted by davidz28

you think a 1/4 inch would really make much difference?

The bushings are a set size, it may or may not. Hard to tell without having it in front of me. But I would replace the cut ones just because.. But you'll have to be the judge on it ultimately..