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Triumph TR6 - Front Sway Bar Removal

Starting into rebushing my front end and I am taking down the sway bar to replace all attaching mounts. Someone in the been there done that crowd has to know an easier way to get the old U bolts out or should I just use a hack saw on them. Then with that done is there an easier way to install the new ones without lifing out the radiator etc. ?
Thanks, Keith
Keith Dixon

It is somewhat awkward but doable without taking the radiator out. I went to a completely different bar set up many, many years ago, but seem to recall that I slid a wrench into the gap between radiator and the radiator protection pan that also serves as the mount point for the anti-roll bar. Then it was just a matter of loosening the nuts. Installation is the reverse, use a piece of masking tape to hold the u-bolt in place while you fit the washers and nuts.

I used an open end wrench, but think it might be easier with one of those ratcheting box end wrenchs. I have found those to be ever so handy. Given the rate at which they are grabbed out of the box these days, wish I had bought a set years ago.

SteveP

It can be done like Steve says - I replaced the u-bolts on my original years ago without pulling the radiator. When I upgraded, though, I did pull the radiator after much cussing. Short of the mess from draining the coolant (which was going to be done anyway) it was much easier and may have saved a little time. May have had something to do with the u-bolt lengths and polyurethane bushes - I don't recall.
Brent B

Do yourself a favour and pull the rad!

JP
73 5 Speed
John Parfitt

My experience:
wanted to swap anti-roll bar so took old one out but new one wouldn't line up. The radiator pan was bent, too heavy of guage to pound out so got a new pan. Then figured out that the radiator needed to come out so while it was out I took it down to the radiator shop to get cleaned out. While the radiator was out I figured I might as well replace the front engine oil seal that has been leaking. While the timing cover was off I checked the timing chain, it had too much slack in it so I replaced that. Since the engine fan was off I figured I may as well make the change to an electric fan. I'm making the change to solid mounts for the steering rack now also. Everthing is finally going back together now but for a while there I felt like I was half way into a frame off restoration. the new roll bar still isn't on yet!
steve

That sounds TOO familiar, Steve. I'm in Cordova - how about you?

Brent
Brent B

Hi Keith,
I did my front bushings last spring, I agree it was a bit of a pain putting the bolts back on more so than getting them off for the sway bar but I discovered it was a big help when I undid the rad bolts and bracket then tilted it enough to get the nut on. This job goes better with a helper.
Charlie
Charlie B.

Brent
I'm actually in Fayette Co. off of Raleigh-lagrange Rd. Perfect Triumph driving territory. My kids go to school in Cordova (St. Bennedict). Give me a call sometime. I would like to see your car. 854-6823
steve

Steve,

You bet it is good driving out there - I do it all the time when weather permits. We'll have to get together for a beer - can't let those guys in Florida & Canada have all the fun.

Brent
Brent B

This thread was discussed between 01/02/2005 and 02/02/2005

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