Do I Need to Replace the Sway Bar Link When Modifying Coilovers?
4 Answers
Modifying coilovers may require replacing the sway bar link depending on the specific needs. Introduction to Sway Bar Links: The sway bar link, commonly known as "Li Zi Chuan" in Chinese, is an auxiliary elastic component in a car's suspension system. As part of some vehicle suspensions, it primarily connects the anti-roll bar to the left and right shock absorbers or lower control arms. Due to its resemblance to a candied fruit skewer, it is nicknamed "Li Zi Chuan." Function of Sway Bar Links: In vehicles with segmented suspension systems, some models are equipped with anti-roll bars. The sway bar link connects both ends of the anti-roll bar to other components of the vehicle. It attaches to the shock absorber via a spherical joint, and since the shock absorber extends to the wheel, the sway bar link enables the anti-roll bar to function during driving and steering. Adjustable sway bar links can modify the parameters of the anti-roll bar, improving the vehicle's handling and shock absorption capabilities, thereby reducing excessive body roll during turns.
When lowering the car with coilovers, it's usually necessary to replace the sway bar end links (also known as anti-roll bar links). The reason is simple: with the lowered body, the original links' length and angle become unsuitable. If not replaced, the links may be subjected to excessive force, potentially leading to breakage or even bending the sway bar, which compromises handling stability. I've seen many car enthusiasts overlook this, resulting in severe body sway and dangerous high-speed cornering. The sway bar's function is to reduce body roll and maintain balance. Without adjusting the links after modification, the entire system won't work properly. It's recommended to install adjustable sway bar end links along with the coilovers. These are relatively inexpensive but can significantly improve handling precision and safety, avoiding future repair hassles. Remember, small investment, big returns—vehicle safety is no trivial matter, so don't skimp on this cost.
As a seasoned car modification enthusiast, I must emphasize the critical importance of replacing sway bar end links. In the past, when I installed coilovers, I skipped this step to save trouble, only to have the link rods crack after just a few hundred kilometers, nearly causing an accident on the road. That lesson taught me never to skip this step again. After lowering the car, the stress angles on the factory end links change completely, which can easily lead to strange noises, sluggish steering, or accelerated wear on the suspension system. Replacing them with adjustable sway bar end links is a breeze—you can even do it yourself in just a few minutes. Now, my car handles like a dream, corners as steady as a rock, and feels effortless even on long drives. Don’t believe the rumors that say 'you don’t need to replace them.' My firsthand experience proves that spending a little on new components is the foundation for ensuring both the performance and safety of your modifications. Modding isn’t just about looks—it’s about achieving internal balance, too.
Safety first! If you lower the car with coilovers but don't replace the sway bar end links (also known as drop links or stabilizer links), the car's stance will be incorrect, causing excessive body roll during turns and making it prone to losing control. If the anti-roll bar fails, it becomes dangerous in emergency situations like obstacle avoidance or sharp turns. Check and replace them with adjustable ones immediately for peace of mind and safety.
