Questions about upgrading to a 98+ front swaybar

[kevinspann]

As most of you may know, the front swaybar on the 98-01 explorers is a solid bar that is somewhat stiffer than the hollow front bar on the 95-97s. The only problem with upgrading is that the bars mount totally different. The 95-97 mount on the front of the engine's crossmember, and the 98-01 mounts on the front framerails. The older explorers do not have the holes for the mounting of the later sway bar.

I was wondering if anyone has put the later bar on their explorer, and what they did to accomplish this.

As far as i can tell, the frame is boxed in that area, so there shouldnt be any kind of threaded nut on the back side of the framerail, but im not sure. If its a simple case of marking and drilling the holes in the proper location, im willing to have a go at it, but if its more than that...well, itll be a lost cause.

 

[CDW6212R]

The frames have the holes drilled and tapped in them. I'd bet that the frames are the same there. Just locate the holes well, and take your time tapping the threads.

 

[kevinspann]

i figure that i could try it, and the worst that will happen is that ill just be stuck with the front swaybar i already have.

 

[CDW6212R]

The sway bars are the same size aren't they? If that is the case, then start with the 98-01 mounts and see if it will be so simple to make the holes for those.

 

[kevinspann]

I believe they have a similar outside diameter, but the 95-97 bar is hollow, and the 98-01 is solid. Id like to eventually get an explorer express rear bar, and then have the 98-01 bar in the front.