XK8 / XKR ( X100 ) 1996 - 2006

Best anti-roll bar bushings ?

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Old Mar 1, 2023 | 09:57 PM
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zray's Avatar
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Default Best anti-roll bar bushings ?

I need to replace the anti-roll bar (ie sway bar) bushings on my 2002 XKR. It does not appear to have an “R” handle if package, (I don’t even know if that was available in 2002 models).

Any recommendations on what manufacturer and / composition of material of the bushings are recommended or preferred (and source too if possible). I’ll be replacing the end links too, while I’m there… any info on those appreciated as well.

Z

PS: the typical power steering leak on the right apron melted the right sway bar bushing.

 
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Old Mar 1, 2023 | 10:13 PM
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Z, I replaced my front sway bushes with poly bushings. I don't recall any noticeable difference.

Otoh, lets talk about rear link bushings. I purchased polyflex replacements. Expensive, they flattened out in about a year. Decided to try an experiment. I had a bunch of Energy brand bushes (I will post a photo). They too are poly, cost a small fraction of polyflex' price.

I did find the hole inside is a bit too small - no problem. Grab a pair of vice grips, lock it in, put a drill bit on your drill . . . Seconds later, perfect sized hole. Now, these made a difference, a surprisingly big difference and they last for years.

I'll come back with photo that includes model# info.

John
 
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Old Mar 4, 2023 | 08:07 AM
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I installed powerflex poly bushings on the sway bars years ago and have had no issues. Not a daily driver like yours but probably 50k miles give or take.
 
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Old Mar 4, 2023 | 08:21 AM
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Originally Posted by ccfulton
I installed powerflex poly bushings on the sway bars years ago and have had no issues. Not a daily driver like yours but probably 50k miles give or take.
where did you get them ?


Z
 
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Old Mar 5, 2023 | 01:24 PM
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Bought the kit online, DIY install is not too bad.

https://www.powerflexusa.com/shop/ca...1996-2006-1451
 
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Old Mar 5, 2023 | 02:54 PM
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Thanks .

Z
 
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Old Mar 5, 2023 | 04:51 PM
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Originally Posted by zray
I need to replace the anti-roll bar (ie sway bar) bushings on my 2002 XKR. It does not appear to have an “R” handle if package, (I don’t even know if that was available in 2002 models).

Any recommendations on what manufacturer and / composition of material of the bushings are recommended or preferred (and source too if possible). I’ll be replacing the end links too, while I’m there… any info on those appreciated as well.

Z

PS: the typical power steering leak on the right apron melted the right sway bar bushing.
you have to watch out if you have a XK8 with the newer sway bar. Powerflex (or Polybush) for example doesnt provide the right bushings for the new bars.
The old sway bars had (sometimes^^) a plastic sleeve which you can take of. the newer sway bar with the 4.2L has the same on one side but its part of the metal.



4.2L front sway bar

powerflex/polybush/...

original bushing

problem

original
 
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