Sway bar bushings and end links

I asked this question over in the "Stupid Questions" section, but never received a reply. So here it is.

When replacing the sway bar bushings and end links, do I need to leave the truck on the ground with all the weight on the tires, or can I put it up on jack stands to replace these parts. Thanks for any replies or advice.

 

On the ground

 

Thank you sir, just the info I needed. I've read where some did this with the vehicle on jack stands, and had problems. Just wanted verification.

 

Yeah so much easier On the ground and alignment of sway bar isn’t tweaked

 

I’m sorry but I have to disagree. Leaving the truck on the ground is a pita. I have done hundreds of end links and bushings and not once left it on the ground. Plus trying to get behind the wheel to remove the upper link nut is a pain.
Do one piece at a time. And you won’t have any issues.
Vise grip the inside joint if there isn’t a spot for a wrench on the link, the nut almost never comes right off. When doing the bushings I loosen both, then replace one at a time and then sock em back down. Easy peasy.

 

It's easier on the ground because the arms are unloaded.

That said I never would bother with any tacoma model like this. Only 07+ tundras benefit from doing them on the ground now.

Either way is fine, but be ready to fight, vice grips as mentioned are your friend.

Also the bolts that hold the bushings to the frame *can* break, so if it feels off, stop and work them free, shock them whatever has to be done.

 

I think it all depends on what you consider easier. Most end link too nuts are pointed outward, pull the wheel, vise grip the back and zip that sucker off with the impact. Do both sides, pivot the bar and get the electric ratchet on the inside nut at the bottom.

Just my way though.

 

I'm agreeing, I work with hoists and jack stands haha. I lay on my back for no one!

 

Well Gentlemen, I'll take all of your advice to heart. When the weather warms up to a balmy 60 degrees or so, I'll take another look at it and see which method will benefit me the most. Thanks for all the replies.

 

I've zipped them on and off within minutes without ever putting a jack under the truck.

 

I'm a little fatter than I used to be, but I can still squeeze my old butt under a 4x4 Tacoma, Just barely, but I do it every time I lube the drive train. The front end, I'm not so sure about, but we'll see if I can fit!! I did finally find a good way to grab and twist my oil filter on from the front, so much easier than the old way I was doing it.

 

Remove it all together.
I'm 3 linked in the front and run without one. My wife drove it as a daily for 4 years without issues. Save the money on bushings towards some upgraded CO's and UCA's.

Good luck.

 

For end links you pretty much gotta have the wheel off and jack it up...they're a pain to get off, especially if older or rusty. You will need to remove the lower shock bolt so the LCA and sway bar are no longer loaded.