question about rear sway bar links (2002 XLT 4.6L 4WD)

[LMHmedchem]

Hello,

I am doing some painting on my frame and would like a bit more access behind the rear knuckle (without removing the entire suspension). I am wondering if removing both rear sway bar links would allow the ends of the sway bar to swing/pivot up or down. Does anyone know if the sway bar will rotate freely (more or less) in the bushings if the links are removed?

I suppose I could just try it but I thought I would ask before I take off both rear wheels.

LMHmedchem

 

[Bazz270]

Yes it will rotate freely without the links connected

 

[LMHmedchem]

Yes it will rotate freely without the links connected

Thanks, I was thinking that it has to since it's bolted to the lower control arm which has to move up and down.

Swinging the sway bar out of the way will give me much better access to the part of the frame that is behind the knuckle. I just don't want to put the hard brake line back on without de-rusting and painting the part of frame the brake line is attached to.

LMHmedchem