IE Sway Bar Install

[rolandmw]

Hi Everyone,

Long time reader, first time poster.

I just got a set of IE sway bars. Does anyone have any experience installing these? Mine didn't come with any instructions and I'm mainly concerned with the triangular tabs that that need to be attached..... somewhere. Jeff Ireland said they go on the trailing arms.

I'd also like to know what the best adjustment methods are for these sway bars. (they have adjustable links). I assume they are adjusted by the adjustable links, but I'm not sure what impact on performance changing those links will have? Basically, if I shorten the links in the front, with it make the front tighter?

Thanks in advance, and sorry if I'm not clear.

Roland

1990 325i

[1990m3]

shortening the links takes away pre-load from the swaybar so it sits at the proper angle on a lowered suspension. The only improvement you should see is that properly adjusted links will help the sway bars to work as there were intended

[rs4pro3]

shortening the links takes away pre-load from the swaybar so it sits at the proper angle on a lowered suspension. The only improvement you should see is that properly adjusted links will help the sway bars to work as there were intended

Incorrect, Shortening or Lengthening the links helps to restore the proper angle(which does make the bar more or less effective), but to adjust preload you shorten or lengthen one side more then the other to put a twist in the bar.

[wastedincome]

Those tri-angle tabl need to be welded to the trailing arms. They are reonforment tabs, they get welded next to the stock tab's (that where the rear link conect) Stock tabs are weak

[rolandmw]

Thanks for the info everyone!

[rs4pro3]

Also make sure when you adjust the links, that the suspension is loaded(meaning the weight of the vehicle is resting on the shocks). Either drive it up on ramps, or a drive on lift.

[fporro]

triangles get welded to UPPer side of trailing arm tab, make sure you install a screw to keep them line up prior to tacking it.

as per upper brackets, you'll have to drill holes for the reinforcement plates do it from under the car.

- install the bracket,
- drill first hole,
- remove bracket
- use reinforce plate to locate proper spot to drill second hole.
- drill it from under the car.
- grease bushings contact area between it and sway bar.
- align adjustable links so they'll move freely.

as mentioned above, load the suspension and set tension to neutral, no pull / no push.
get use to the new handling characteristics before adjusting saw bar links, also, retighten everything within a week (just in case).

[rolandmw]

Thank Frank,

That is exactly what I needed. I really appreciate it!!

I quick dumb question for you... what grease did you use on your bushings?

Can't wait to get these installed, I'm waiting on the Koni's to arrive and then I will install them, the sway bars and the IE Stage 3 springs.

[fporro]

Thank Frank,

That is exactly what I needed. I really appreciate it!!

I quick dumb question for you... what grease did you use on your bushings?

Can't wait to get these installed, I'm waiting on the Koni's to arrive and then I will install them, the sway bars and the IE Stage 3 springs.

You're welcome Roland.
good idea to to it all at the same time, if you like and since you'll be back there, try upgrading to SS Brake lines and ask IE to add 2 packets of grease while there at it.

- place jack someplace else besides Sub Frame mounting point,
- remove SF bracket (allen wrenches) and 19mm nut,
- spring tension will pop off subframe and you'll have easy access to those little lines.

there should be a small package (ketchup bag size) of white grease in there, otherwise, at any bicycle shop you can purchase something like this ...

SRAM Grip Shift Jonnisnot Grease, 30cc, Syringe $ 12