Sway Bar disconnects being made for explorer

[Petech]

In case anybody is interested, Persson off road makes swaybar disconnects for 98+ explorers. Here is the email they sent me:
"
I certainly do make disconnects for the front of '98+ IFS Ford
Explorers. I can make them any length you would like, though 7" is the
stock size. Whether or not this needs to be longer depends on your
particular lift kit. (Chances are, if you're still using the stock 7" end
links the 7" disconnects will be fine.)
Just let me know if you would like to order or have any questions!
http://www.jps.net/persson
"

 

[Mulepick]

Does this outfit have a website?

Bob

 

[roadkill]

Say, I just made quick disconnects for my '92 Exploder, and it was so easy I wish I did it when the truck was new. Dead Link Removed

I removed the stock bolts that attach the swaybar link to the axle(s). After measuring the width of this axle bracket, I cut (2) 1/2" dia rods and drilled a hole near each end.

When I put a cotter pin in one end, and a quick release clip (like the one on your receiver hitch), I am able to pull the pins and disconnect quickly.

I then pivot the links and bar up and strap them to an attach point on the frame, out of the way of the suspension.

Originally had seen the idea of just drilling a hole for the pin in the stock screw, but I didn't like the way the screw loosely fit in the holes, which measured 1/2" dia. The 1/2" pin fits snug, so you won't get any rattling of metal parts.

Good Luck!

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"Don't go where the road don't go." -Ringo Starr

Wil - '92 EB

 

[Keith]

Why is it only for the 98+ explorers. Is this going to be like the trailmaster lift?

Keith

 

[bcorff]

Hey roadkill, are the disconnects you made for the front or the rear swaybars? I assume they are for the rear. If so, tell me more, because I want to make some. The IFS system on 95+ explorers is different than your '92, which leads to my other question (this one is for anyone). What good would it do to disconnect the front sway bar on the 95+ IFS? Would this really result in more travel up front?

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Brian Corff
'95 XLT 4x4 V6

Beware the lollipop of mediocrity. Lick it once and you suck forever.

 

[roadkill]

Brian,
I took 1/2" dia pins to replace the stock bolt and nut that attaches the sway bar link to the axle. Pivoting and securing the bar and links out of the way of the suspension travel becomes important then.
I just focused on the front bar right now, burt the rear would be basically the same on my truck. Some remove the rear altogether, but I don't think I'm ready for that, not knowing the effect on road handling.
As far as the front IFS, even though they are independent, the purpose of the bar is to keep both of the wheels on an even keel for cornering, decreasing the roll of the truck. For fourwheeling, you want the wheels to be as independent as possible. The sway bar counters this desire, keeping the truck from articulating like it should, in order to climb efficient.
Let me know if you want more info or some sketches.
Good luck!
Dead Link Removed

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"Don't go where the road don't go." -Ringo Starr

Wil - '92 EB

[This message has been edited by roadkill (edited 01-14-2000).]

 

[ExplorGM]

Brian,
I have noticed a big difference on my 95 with the front swaybar disconnected. Both in articulation and in the amount of lift I can get from the torsion twist. I did not disconnect the sway bars at Truck Haven and wished I had. I can get between 1/2 and 1"+ more lift out of the torsion lift without the sway bars. Not a big lift, but important in preventing the tires from making contact with the fenderwells on impact.
RoadKill! (What a great name)
Your solution sounds simple, but I would love to see a drawing or pic. Can you E-mail it to me? Was the WoadKil license plate yours?
Thanks,
Rick

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Rick
95 Explorer Sport Expedition
Dead Link Removed

 

[bcorff]

All right, now I'm hooked. Rick, tell me about this front disconnect you have. Is it a quick disconnect? If so, how did you make/get them? When you say you get another 1/2 to 1" out of the torsion bar lift with it disconnected does that mean you crank the torsion bars more when you disconnect the sway bar or does it just raise up a little with the same amount of torsion? Wil, I would also like a sketch or picture of your disconnects if you've got one.

------------------
Brian Corff
'95 XLT 4x4 V6

Beware the lollipop of mediocrity. Lick it once and you suck forever.

 

[roadkill]

Here's a simple sketch, but check your truck's bracket dim's before fabbing anything.
Good luck,
Roadkill
http://members.xoom.com/wil2ooo/SWAYPIN.gif
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"Don't go where the road don't go." -Ringo Starr

Wil - '92 EB


[This message has been edited by roadkill (edited 01-20-2000).]