Installing Grease able Polyurethane Front
sway bar bushings
This project was done on my 2003 ST. Should take approximately 15-30 min. and I am giving it a 2 wrench rating. I believe any one can do this.
Since my 03 Came with polyurethane bushings from the factory, There was no need to replace the end link bushings. Due to the factory bushing design, You can’t modify the factory bushing to be grease able. I purchased my kit from Explorer Express.
The only tools you will need are a ½ drive or 3/8 drive ratchet, 6 inch extension and 15mm socket, Grease gun.
I preferred to raise the truck on ramps to give me more working room, But this is not needed. Locate the 2 front frame sway bar bushings. Remove the 2 bolts holding each bracket in place. Once the brackets are removed, Remove the old bushing. *NOTE* Take notice which direction the slit in the bushing is facing. See pic 1.
Remove the old bushings. Clean the bar with a towel. Open the tube of grease supplied in the kit. Apply ½ the tube on the inside of each bushings being sure to fill the groves in the bushing evenly. Next slip on the new bushings (with the slit facing the same way as the old ones) Then place the brackets over the bushing, and re install the bolts to a snug fit . DO NOT TIGHTEN ALL THE WAY.
Center the sway bar (IF IT MOVED) and tighten the bolts.
See pic 2.
Drive the vehicle around the block making right and left turns. Re grease the bushings with a grease gun and quality grease. Then move vehicle up and down checking for noise. If squeaking is heard re grease which bushing is making noise. Check at every oil change and re grease if necessary.
ENJOY a firmer ride and better performing suspension.