Extended rear links using off-the-shelf parts?

[jwkilgore]

I've had MStudt sway-bar links on my wish list forever, but just never had the spare cash. I'd still like them, but it dawned on me that with my usage I really don't need high-end custom extended rear links... yet. I just need an off-the-shelf end link with the same specs as the factory link, except with a longer shaft.

I only have a 1.5" Daystar spacer in the rear, but the stabilizer is obviously out of alignment. I'm about to swap out for Wheeler T13 springs (still 1.5") along with a Bilstein 5100 upgrade and I want to fix that. I'm installing a front stabilizer relocation at the same time for the same reason.

The OEM rear links are 6.88" long. Anyone know of any OTS links in the 7.88" - 8.38" range? I know I can always call a parts store, but I was hoping someone had already done this.

Or am I way off base on this thinking?

 

[jwkilgore]

Ok... as I was closing all my search tabs I found one I'd missed before starting this thread. It looks like the 2nd Gen rear links are the same except 7.95" long.

So about 1.07" longer than 5th Gen OEM.

Anyone see a problem with this?

 

[jwkilgore]

No comments?

 

[Angelo]

It seems like your thinking is sound to me but I haven't replaced mine. Worse case scenario as far as trying the OEM 2nd Gen ones you mentioned, you haven't dropped a bunch of coin on the adjustable ones and the swap back to the original 5th Gen ones isn't that painful right?

My only question is wouldn't it make more sense (since it's the swaybar that is out of place) to go with adjustable swaybar links (Dobinson's, etc)? Maybe I'm misunderstanding the issue...

 

[Jetboy]

First - is the system binding with the OEM links? If not - is there a reason you think it needs aftermarket ones? Will they bind on full compression with longer ones?

Second - I don't think anyone knows much about the comparison between older or newer links and whether the longer ones fit or whether they are of similar construction so that they are strong enough.

 

[jwkilgore]

The "issue" is that the 1.5" lift has shifted the axle down, with the sway bar attached. But the end links are in the same spot, so the end arms are twisted out alignment. This restricts how far the axle can drop. I ran it that way for a full set of tires, but it's been bugging me the whole time. I just got new tires and I'm about to upgrade the suspension, so now's the time to fix it.

Several reports on here state that extended links to restore alignment (ends should be roughly parallel with control arm) will improve articulation, which makes sense.

Why not adjustable links? I can get off-the-shelf 2nd gen links for less than $50 from AdvancedAuto or Amazon, vs. close to $175 for dobbinson or $160 for MStudt.

MStudt's are stronger and sexier. I will eventually get his front disco links. But right now I'm about to drop about $600 on shocks and springs, plus $160 worth of replacement keys and remote for the other vehicle, plus a never ending stream of other expenses (don't ask).

I don't wheel very hard, so slightly longer but still OEM end links should serve fine... ASSUMING someone doesn't have a critical fail bit of info I'm missing.

 

[2016 4Runner SR5]

The "issue" is that the 1.5" lift has shifted the axle down, with the sway bar attached. But the end links are in the same spot, so the end arms are twisted out alignment. This restricts how far the axle can drop. I ran it that way for a full set of tires, but it's been bugging me the whole time. I just got new tires and I'm about to upgrade the suspension, so now's the time to fix it.

Several reports on here state that extended links to restore alignment (ends should be roughly parallel with control arm) will improve articulation, which makes sense.

Why not adjustable links? I can get off-the-shelf 2nd gen links for less than $50 from AdvancedAuto or Amazon, vs. close to $175 for dobbinson or $160 for MStudt.

MStudt's are stronger and sexier. I will eventually get his front disco links. But right now I'm about to drop about $600 on shocks and springs, plus $160 worth of replacement keys and remote for the other vehicle, plus a never ending stream of other expenses (don't ask).

I don't wheel very hard, so slightly longer but still OEM end links should serve fine... ASSUMING someone doesn't have a critical fail bit of info I'm missing.

Do you have the OEM PN for the Toyota 2nd gen links you're looking at? I have often wondered this same thing. I had OEM links when lifted 3" and the angle was terrible. Amazed I never bent them but they held up.

 

[zonzin]

Well what I did was by some threaded 10mm stainless steel rod and off the shelf ball joints to OEM specs and made my own. Work like a champ, < 40$.



.

 

[Jarheadoo7]

Do you have the OEM PN for the Toyota 2nd gen links you're looking at?

I second the request for part number. I’d be willing to try them
Out in the spring when it warms up outside.

 

[jwkilgore]

I don't have the OEM link number. I was planning on going with aftermarket links. Here is a table of part numbers stolen from the Proforge site:

ProForged 113-10144
ACDelco 45G0263
General Motors 89056190
Moog K80380
Rare Parts 18814
Raybestos Chassis 545-1263
XRF K80380

I was originally planning on bringing my current links to a store for direct comparison, but none of my local stores have any of these in stock that I can find. So I'll be feeding another order to the Amazon behemoth.

 

[T4RZAN]

Been considering going this route. Anyone have any insight on them? They seem to have great reviews.

Skyjacker Extended Sway Bar Links

 

[JSparky]

There’s some cheap, 2nd gen take-offs near me. If anyone wants to test this out I’ll be happy to pick them up. I’m running antirock or I’d do it myself.

Moving forward, it may be best to specify “sway bar links” as opposed to just “links”, took a few passes for me to understand which links you were referring to.

 

[WhiteBoomer04]

Make your own? Plenty of people have done that with hardware bought from hardware stores. Some guys even started selling them pre-made. Do a search on toyota120.com if you cant find any reference on here.

I bought extended links from one of the guys on 12o years ago. There are "how to" threads about making your own.

 

[JSparky]

Make your own? Plenty of people have done that with hardware bought from hardware stores. Some guys even started selling them pre-made. Do a search on toyota120.com if you cant find any reference on here.

I bought extended links from one of the guys on 12o years ago. There are "how to" threads about making your own.

Yea. I think the point the OP is making is that you can get an oem-style replacement for a 2nd gen for much less, and happens to be an inch longer than the factory 5th gen sway bar links, improving the geometry for considerably less.

This begs the question though that [MENTION=118321]Jetboy[/MENTION] brought up which is, at 1.5" or even 2" of rear lift, is the rear sway bar really maxed out, or a limiting factor in travel?

Amazon has replacement Moog sway bar links for $25, which is cheap and convenient for an easy "fix"... if one really wants to bother with it. Personally for low lift heights I think it's a non-issue, but to each their own. It's certainly not a bad idea and, for guys with taller lifts, could be a cheap and easy way to get their sway bar geometry back within range.

 

[470SNC]

Custom(ish) Extended Rear Sway Bar Links Write-up - Toyota 120 Platforms Forum

This is another good option from off the shelf parts.

 

[Offwidth]

Pair from MStudt ordered.

 

[matoolie]

I don't have the OEM link number. I was planning on going with aftermarket links. Here is a table of part numbers stolen from the Proforge site:

ProForged 113-10144
ACDelco 45G0263
General Motors 89056190
Moog K80380
Rare Parts 18814
Raybestos Chassis 545-1263
XRF K80380

I was originally planning on bringing my current links to a store for direct comparison, but none of my local stores have any of these in stock that I can find. So I'll be feeding another order to the Amazon behemoth.

I installed a Dobinson 3”/2” lift a few weeks ago. I noticed the odd angle now on the rear sway bar links. I was planning on going with Dobinsons adjustable links but little hesitant due to cost. Wanted to see if I could find other lower cost options. I saw your thread and found the Moog part number above on amazon for roughly $17 each and figured pretty cheap experiment. So I ordered them and should get them Sunday. I’ll update on my findings.

 

[WhiteBoomer04]

Custom(ish) Extended Rear Sway Bar Links Write-up - Toyota 120 Platforms Forum

This is another good option from off the shelf parts.

Yup, that's what I was talking about. Thanks for taking the time to find that thread.

 

[matoolie]

I installed a Dobinson 3”/2” lift a few weeks ago. I noticed the odd angle now on the rear sway bar links. I was planning on going with Dobinsons adjustable links but little hesitant due to cost. Wanted to see if I could find other lower cost options. I saw your thread and found the Moog part number above on amazon for roughly $17 each and figured pretty cheap experiment. So I ordered them and should get them Sunday. I’ll update on my findings.

Amazon delivered the links a day early and I have put them on. Everything is same OEM ones, just about 1-1/16” longer. I think they worked great. Eliminated the awkward angle of the OEM links due to my lift. About 2” clearance with the trailing arms. Very satisfied. Big thanks to [MENTION=126566]jwkilgore[/MENTION] for posting about using these links. A lot cheaper than adjustable links.

Comparison between OEM and new links

OEM

New links

 

[2016 4Runner SR5]

With that, I just ordered a set of the Moog links from Amazon. Thanks for the review and pictures! Now, has anyone done anything about longer front links?