Sway Bar Link is Broke

[phishtaco]

The sway bar link on my wife's 97 4runner is broken. I'm not sure if the bolt just rusted off or if the nut backed off. The upper bushings are gone but its dark out right now to check much further. Is ok to be driving like this temporarily? She is planning on making a 200 mile round trip this weekend with our 2 kids. I know people run without sway bars all the time. Anyone have an opinion on this? Thanks

 

[FlatlandTRD]

I know people run without sway bars all the time. Anyone have an opinion on this? Thanks

I removed mine years ago, and my wife drives it without any problems. Just express to her the importance of slowing down at corners (which I'm sure she does anyway since you have kids).

If there are significant cross winds at high speeds, you'll notice it more. This could make it "white knuckles" driving, especially if the 97's suspension is soft. But that is where slowing down comes into play (especially with current gas prices!)

Personally, I wouldn't worry about it. But I've got two end links off an '01 tacoma and bushings, if they're the same. I know it won't help for the weekend trip, but they're yours for shipping cost.

PS, I assume this is the front anti-sway bar?

 

[hoch]

Yeah, my old 98 4Runner also had one of the front links busted. It happens quite a bit, and you can see why if you take a look. They are very weak and thin.

I ordered quick disco's from wabfab (google wabfab). Top notch quality and VERY stout. You will NOT have to worry about them breaking ever. And they're cheaper than OEM ($160 vs. $120).

Like Flatlad said, tell her to becareful in the corners. I drove around for several weeks before realizing that the link was broken.

 

[5280Hawk]

I wish My wife would slow down around corners.

I'd never let her drive with out a sway bar.

I don't let her drive ever unless I've had a few...

 

[phishtaco]

Sorry i ended up reading on yotatech about these things breaking. I'm fine worth her driving it and so is she. Just wanted to make sure I wasn't over looking something that was obvious.
Flat and Trd I'll send you a pm