How to Replace Front Sway Bar Links 98-08 Ford Ranger
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 90 min · Ford Ranger
Replace the front sway bar links on a 1998–2008 Ford Ranger, supporting the vehicle securely and assembling each bushing and washer in the correct order.
Tools you will need
- Floor jack and jack stands
- 19mm socket
- 16mm socket and wrench
- 18mm wrench
- Ratchet
- Pliers
- Torque wrench
Parts and supplies
- Front sway bar links
Steps
Raise and support the vehicle
Loosen the wheel nuts with the vehicle on the ground. Raise the front and support it on appropriately rated jack stands, then remove the wheels.
Remove the old sway bar links
Hold the upper fastener while loosening the lower nut. If corrosion prevents removal, carefully cut the old link without damaging the sway bar or control arm, then remove its washers and bushings.
Assemble the replacement link
Install the new link with its washers, bushings, and sleeve in the order specified by the kit. Feed the fasteners through the sway bar and control arm without twisting the bushings.
Tighten the links
Compress the bushings evenly and tighten the link fasteners to the vehicle and component manufacturer's specification. Repeat on the opposite side and inspect that each bushing is centered.
Reinstall wheels and inspect
Reinstall the wheels and hand-start the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the vehicle's specification in a star pattern, then check for clunks during a cautious road test.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.