Replacing sway bar bushings

[jerryls]

I heard replacing the sway bar is a bear of a job on the 2000 LS V8. Ford only sells the entire sway bar and not just the bushings. I found a sway bar repair kit from Rock Auto for $27. Can someone tell me what is involved to replace just the bushings? I have yet to see a Chiltons manual for this car

[Joe_theboob]

If your car is clunking over minor bumps then chances are that your frame bushings on the sway bar are worn. If you have a "repair kit" make sure it includes the frame bushings or your problem will persist. The repair kit sold by Napa auto parts only includes the stabilizer links and link bushings.

Replacing the links and link bushings is a relatively easy job and can be done in the driveway / garage. If you're going after the frame bushings... the higher you can get the car the easier it is - try to get the front end 12 to fifteen inches off the ground so you can some leverage while on your back. Also, it's effective to shim the frame bushings rather that buying the whole bar kit from Ford. If you're comfortable w/ the shims, that will re-new / pro-long the frame bushings as well.

[jerryls]

Thanks very much. This is very helpful. I think the repair kit only comes with the link bushings. It's manufactured by Spicer
http://www.spicerchassis.com
I can get the car up 18 inches. I'll fabricate or shim the frame bushings. Do I need to unbolt something or how do I get the pressure off the frame bushing to replace or shim it.
Thanks again.

[shorod]

Doing only one bushing at a time and having a pin driver/punch to align the bolt holes will help. Loosen one side most of the way, then remove the bracket from the other bushing and shim/replace. Get the bolts started on this side, then remove the other side and install shim/replace. Torque both sides and hope your noise is gone.

-Rod

[jerryls]

Thanks Rod,
I doesn't sound like too hard of a job, provided I can get at the bolts without something in the way. I can't find replacement bushings, I wonder if I can buy them for another car and make them fit?