Replacing The Sway Bar Linkage on a Jeep Wrangler

This how-to is for replacing the sway-bar linkage on a 2003 Jeep Wrangler TJ. If you do alot of off-roading the ball-joint connectors on your sway-bar links will eventually wear out and break. While this would help your traction on uneven terrain, it is a disaster waiting to happen if you drive your Jeep on the highways. I drove mine with broken linkage for about 200 miles before replacing them and it wasn't a good idea. At speeds greater than 40 mph I could feel the sway in the front as I was making turns or correcting. If you have broken links fix them ASAP.

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Step 1: Tools and Materials

Problem: Broken Sway Bar Linkage

Repair Time: 1 hour

Cost: $20 - $35 for a pair of OEM or after market links - (You can spend much more on links that have a quick disconnect option.

Tools: Ratchet set, Torx sockets, wrenches, pitman arm puller and ball-joint splitter

Prep: My Jeep is a stock height, but I do have larger 31.5" tires. I had plenty of clearance to do this work without putting the Jeep up on a jack or stands. Turn the wheel as far as you can to the left to do the passengers side link and all the way to the right to do the drivers side link.

fanmedia says: Apr 22, 2011. 12:26 PM

The excellent car, my dream...

zodono says: Sep 4, 2010. 12:29 AM

dont use lithium grease on swaybar bushings, use graphite based grease.

piperjon says: Sep 3, 2010. 3:10 PM

AWESOME Instructable! I have a 2002 Wrangler with a full lift kit, and I've been thinking lately there is quite a bit more play in turns and correction on the highway. I bet this is part of it, and maybe some ball joint replacement is in my future as well. Thanks! - Pj

diluded000 says: Sep 3, 2010. 8:45 PM

Might be time for a new steering damper, that could also cause your symptoms.

diluded000 says: Sep 3, 2010. 8:43 PM

While the sway bar links are off is a good time to pull the sway bar bushings from behind the bumper and put some lithium grease in them. They will make an awful squeaking noise if they get too dried out, and it is just two extra bolts. And I'm sure you already know this, but it might be worth mentioning that it is easier to hold the torx head bolt on the link and turn the nut than vice-versa.

zpedrick says: Aug 19, 2010. 11:10 AM

Awesome! I've been driving around with a broken linkage for a few weeks, it feels like I'm driving a boat! Now it's just a matter of finding time to replace it. THANKS!