DIY: Front and Rear Sway Bars
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 7,263
Likes: 169
From: So. Oregon Coast
C230 Sport Coup + 2006 W164 ML350 + 99 Ford Escort RIP
I noticed a rear H&R 19mm swaybar is only about 170 smackers.
Anyone run a 19mm rear with an AMG 22mm front?
I'm very tempted. Never been quite happy with the end result, still plows a little. Especially the coupe i think. Better balance would be nice,
Anyone run a 19mm rear with an AMG 22mm front?
I'm very tempted. Never been quite happy with the end result, still plows a little. Especially the coupe i think. Better balance would be nice,
Super Moderator
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 3,365
Likes: 12
From: Orange County, CA
GMC - Miata - Trek - P-Car
I’ve experimented with the adjustable H&R and AMG anti-roll bars in each of their possible configurations. With an OE bar in front, the H&R equipped rear was a little too happy in very high speed (off-highway) sweepers. At any reasonable velocity, it’s an excellent tuning compromise. At the limits of adhesion, there is a relatively fine line between ‘I’ve got it’ and ‘it’s got me.’ Of course, you already know that.
For typical rudimentary highway use, you’ll be quite pleased with the improved balance it will provide. There are two minor hardware caveats involved with its installation. Let us know when you’re ready to do the deed, and I’ll share some intel to save you grief down the road.
Super Moderator
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 3,365
Likes: 12
From: Orange County, CA
GMC - Miata - Trek - P-Car
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 7,263
Likes: 169
From: So. Oregon Coast
C230 Sport Coup + 2006 W164 ML350 + 99 Ford Escort RIP
Too late.
The deed is done.
UPS came here around 2:30 pm and by 4pm it was on the car!
So much for the job search.
he he....
I've only driven around the block so far, but I live a roller coaster road, but can't get much over 20-25 mph, people out etc. It feels tight, not harsh,
no noises from the rear. so far so good.
I could not get the outer holes to line up.
Thought I'd try the less agressive setting 1st, but it was a no way situation, at least without extra jacks etc. and a lot of PIA work for no real reason.
Later, I'll take it for a drive down Hwy 9, and give my impressions.
The AMG bars were an excellent improvement when I put them on 5 years ago.
But I was ruined when I drove a friends M3.
Perfect, absolutely perfect balance.
And ever since, I've just been pissed about the oversteer.
I think it will be a good combo!
New SC on the way, Blake doing a trade with me on the Bix and tails, and I think I may yet get that resonator mounted. They just need to cut the
flanges off the Cat, and move them back.
2002 C230 Coupe Phase 3. It's ALIVE!!!!
The deed is done.
UPS came here around 2:30 pm and by 4pm it was on the car!
So much for the job search.
he he....
I've only driven around the block so far, but I live a roller coaster road, but can't get much over 20-25 mph, people out etc. It feels tight, not harsh,
no noises from the rear. so far so good.
I could not get the outer holes to line up.
Thought I'd try the less agressive setting 1st, but it was a no way situation, at least without extra jacks etc. and a lot of PIA work for no real reason.
Later, I'll take it for a drive down Hwy 9, and give my impressions.
The AMG bars were an excellent improvement when I put them on 5 years ago.
But I was ruined when I drove a friends M3.
Perfect, absolutely perfect balance.
And ever since, I've just been pissed about the oversteer.
I think it will be a good combo!
New SC on the way, Blake doing a trade with me on the Bix and tails, and I think I may yet get that resonator mounted. They just need to cut the
flanges off the Cat, and move them back.
2002 C230 Coupe Phase 3. It's ALIVE!!!!
Get it. I paid a fair piece more than that without regret. It will reduce understeer.
I’ve experimented with the adjustable H&R and AMG anti-roll bars in each of their possible configurations. With an OE bar in front, the H&R equipped rear was a little too happy in very high speed (off-highway) sweepers. At any reasonable velocity, it’s an excellent tuning compromise. At the limits of adhesion, there is a relatively fine line between ‘I’ve got it’ and ‘it’s got me.’ Of course, you already know that.
For typical rudimentary highway use, you’ll be quite pleased with the improved balance it will provide. There are two minor hardware caveats involved with its installation. Let us know when you’re ready to do the deed, and I’ll share some intel to save you grief down the road.
I’ve experimented with the adjustable H&R and AMG anti-roll bars in each of their possible configurations. With an OE bar in front, the H&R equipped rear was a little too happy in very high speed (off-highway) sweepers. At any reasonable velocity, it’s an excellent tuning compromise. At the limits of adhesion, there is a relatively fine line between ‘I’ve got it’ and ‘it’s got me.’ Of course, you already know that.
For typical rudimentary highway use, you’ll be quite pleased with the improved balance it will provide. There are two minor hardware caveats involved with its installation. Let us know when you’re ready to do the deed, and I’ll share some intel to save you grief down the road.
Super Moderator
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 3,365
Likes: 12
From: Orange County, CA
GMC - Miata - Trek - P-Car
You are a dedicated gearhead. We need more like you around here.
The two tips to share were gleaned from the knowledgeable and helpful members on our forum.
I’m grateful for their contributions and endeavor to reciprocate.
H&R’s instructions emphasized that no lubrication is required. After some miles, mine sounded like a tired heap destined for the scrap yard. After they continued to groan even with the installation of a new pair of bushings, johnand came through with a viable solution...https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w203/210517-h-r-sway-bars-not-so-good.html
When the links failed during spirited driving, Zeppelin had the cure...
https://mbworld.org/forums/c32-amg-c55-amg-w203/198608-found-another-failure-point.html
Cool.
Modifying one you like, and that is already paid for, is almost always more cost effective than making new car payments. Wishing for you many more pleasant M-B miles.
The two tips to share were gleaned from the knowledgeable and helpful members on our forum.
I’m grateful for their contributions and endeavor to reciprocate.
H&R’s instructions emphasized that no lubrication is required. After some miles, mine sounded like a tired heap destined for the scrap yard. After they continued to groan even with the installation of a new pair of bushings, johnand came through with a viable solution...https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w203/210517-h-r-sway-bars-not-so-good.html
When the links failed during spirited driving, Zeppelin had the cure...
https://mbworld.org/forums/c32-amg-c55-amg-w203/198608-found-another-failure-point.html
...C230 Coupe Phase 3. It's ALIVE!!!!
Modifying one you like, and that is already paid for, is almost always more cost effective than making new car payments. Wishing for you many more pleasant M-B miles.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 7,263
Likes: 169
From: So. Oregon Coast
C230 Sport Coup + 2006 W164 ML350 + 99 Ford Escort RIP
Well I was able to get on it a little on some tight turns on a mountain road.
It's a subtle but noticeable difference.
Whereas before, if I wanted to get through a corner with any speed, I had to plan, brake ahead, and then power out of the turn.
If I went hot into a turn, and then
tried to coast, you'd get this plowing feeling, slow down quickly, or you'd have to downshift .
But it was very noticeable when coasting through a corner that the car was much better balanced. It just flows.
Now that being said, I'd always felt the sedans had better balance,
especially the 2005 C230 which came stock with the AMG bars.
But the coupe just has a very different balance and the high backend adds a lot of weight. Mercedes never did much as far as tuning the coupe specifically, W203 one size fits all suspension.
And as much as Mercedes like to think of them as the same car, as well all know. Hardly!
I think this makes a very nice combo without making things a lot bumpier.
I see no need to go with a larger front bar.
I didn't grease the rear bushings. If I did, what kind of lube would I use?
They claim they are impregnated, and use teflon etc.
Seem fine so far.
PS> FS Rear AMG swaybar with bushings.
50 bucks + shipping.
It's a subtle but noticeable difference.
Whereas before, if I wanted to get through a corner with any speed, I had to plan, brake ahead, and then power out of the turn.
If I went hot into a turn, and then
tried to coast, you'd get this plowing feeling, slow down quickly, or you'd have to downshift .
But it was very noticeable when coasting through a corner that the car was much better balanced. It just flows.
Now that being said, I'd always felt the sedans had better balance,
especially the 2005 C230 which came stock with the AMG bars.
But the coupe just has a very different balance and the high backend adds a lot of weight. Mercedes never did much as far as tuning the coupe specifically, W203 one size fits all suspension.
And as much as Mercedes like to think of them as the same car, as well all know. Hardly!
I think this makes a very nice combo without making things a lot bumpier.
I see no need to go with a larger front bar.
I didn't grease the rear bushings. If I did, what kind of lube would I use?
They claim they are impregnated, and use teflon etc.
Seem fine so far.
PS> FS Rear AMG swaybar with bushings.
50 bucks + shipping.
You are a dedicated gearhead. We need more like you around here.
The two tips to share were gleaned from the knowledgeable and helpful members on our forum.
I’m grateful for their contributions and endeavor to reciprocate.
H&R’s instructions emphasized that no lubrication is required. After some miles, mine sounded like a tired heap destined for the scrap yard. After they continued to groan even with the installation of a new pair of bushings, johnand came through with a viable solution...https://mbworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=210517
When the links failed during spirited driving, Zeppelin had the cure...
https://mbworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=198608
Cool.
Modifying one you like, and that is already paid for, is almost always more cost effective than making new car payments. Wishing for you many more pleasant M-B miles.
The two tips to share were gleaned from the knowledgeable and helpful members on our forum.
I’m grateful for their contributions and endeavor to reciprocate.
H&R’s instructions emphasized that no lubrication is required. After some miles, mine sounded like a tired heap destined for the scrap yard. After they continued to groan even with the installation of a new pair of bushings, johnand came through with a viable solution...https://mbworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=210517
When the links failed during spirited driving, Zeppelin had the cure...
https://mbworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=198608
Cool.
Modifying one you like, and that is already paid for, is almost always more cost effective than making new car payments. Wishing for you many more pleasant M-B miles.
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Moderator Alumni
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 3,255
Likes: 22
From: Seattle
w203 m112
I just wanted to bump this thread and share my experience w/ the H&R 26mm front and Eibach 22mm rear sway bars.
I dont drive especially crazy or anything, but I have only lost traction twice and they were both in the wet and not even moving that quickly. I definitely haven't had any problems with under or over steering at any speed, but, then again, I dont drive especially fast. In the dry, I am able to take most corners that are labeled 30 at about 50 at long as I have the guts (can actually see the whole turn / not sharp 90 degree turns) and I have yet to break the rear tires loose on any turns. I definitely don't think that I have come close to the limit of the ability of the sway bars and nor do intend to on public roads...
In short, I turn the wheel/point the car and it goes that way. Ive been really happy w/ the sway bars since the day I got em.
My only gripe is that I didn't get the amg brackets for the front sway bars because I didnt think Id need them, but my front sway bar bushings squeak a bit when I turn the wheel slowly when its wet out. That happens often here in Seattle, but I can live with it. Also, it was a B*tch to get the front sway bar on cuz the bushings were just a bit too big.
So, for future reference to those who want to change their front sway bars: any car before the 04.5 (I think thats when they updated the suspension) you should highly consider getting new front sway bar brackets!
I dont drive especially crazy or anything, but I have only lost traction twice and they were both in the wet and not even moving that quickly. I definitely haven't had any problems with under or over steering at any speed, but, then again, I dont drive especially fast. In the dry, I am able to take most corners that are labeled 30 at about 50 at long as I have the guts (can actually see the whole turn / not sharp 90 degree turns) and I have yet to break the rear tires loose on any turns. I definitely don't think that I have come close to the limit of the ability of the sway bars and nor do intend to on public roads...
In short, I turn the wheel/point the car and it goes that way. Ive been really happy w/ the sway bars since the day I got em.
My only gripe is that I didn't get the amg brackets for the front sway bars because I didnt think Id need them, but my front sway bar bushings squeak a bit when I turn the wheel slowly when its wet out. That happens often here in Seattle, but I can live with it. Also, it was a B*tch to get the front sway bar on cuz the bushings were just a bit too big.
So, for future reference to those who want to change their front sway bars: any car before the 04.5 (I think thats when they updated the suspension) you should highly consider getting new front sway bar brackets!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 7,263
Likes: 169
From: So. Oregon Coast
C230 Sport Coup + 2006 W164 ML350 + 99 Ford Escort RIP
UPDATE: I just thought I'd reiterate what a great combo the front AMG 22mm bar with the 19mm HR rear bar is on the coupe.
Of course thats along with some seriously tight springs and shocks, so I didn't want to go completely ***** out on the sways or I might as well just bolt the wheels to the body!
But I can say, whereas before when coming up on a tight turn, and hitting the brake I'd just plow straight forward and the front tires would not grab.
Now, it's just wow, man, jab the brakes hard, turn the wheel and the front just graps hard!
Like I said thats in combo with my TEIN SuperStreet CO's.
It's taken me all these years to realize that my crappy handing, while improved still couldn't touch a bimmer was due to to thin rear bar.
The coupe sits up high, with more weight in the back, and the coupe
just got the sedan suspension with little thought to the fact that it's not the same car.
AMG front and HR Rear rules for the coupe!
Of course thats along with some seriously tight springs and shocks, so I didn't want to go completely ***** out on the sways or I might as well just bolt the wheels to the body!
But I can say, whereas before when coming up on a tight turn, and hitting the brake I'd just plow straight forward and the front tires would not grab.
Now, it's just wow, man, jab the brakes hard, turn the wheel and the front just graps hard!
Like I said thats in combo with my TEIN SuperStreet CO's.
It's taken me all these years to realize that my crappy handing, while improved still couldn't touch a bimmer was due to to thin rear bar.
The coupe sits up high, with more weight in the back, and the coupe
just got the sedan suspension with little thought to the fact that it's not the same car.
AMG front and HR Rear rules for the coupe!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 1,545
Likes: 0
From: Saint Augustine, FL
1999 CLK320 (sold), 2007 C230 SS (gone), 2000 Grand Marquis, 2011 CR-Z, stay tuned...
I just have a question. I apologize in advance if it was mentioned in this thread and I missed it, but what size are the C55 sways and the '07 C230 sport sways?
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 53
Likes: 1
From: Vancouver, Canada
2006 C280 4Matic, 2011 E92 335i
Also could I get this mod for my c280 4matic? For some reason, I don't think it'd be possible with the 4matic?
Thanks
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 63
Likes: 22
From: SoCal
'17 GLC43, '18 STi Limited, '08 Evo MR
I was inspired by rlee's DIY on the H&R sway bar install, it was a little tricky on removing the stock rear sway bar, but i got it going! Here are some pics on my install and sorry for the crappy cellphone pics, i forgot to grab my camera, i was too excited for the install. Thanks to Tirerack for my purchase and shipped in 2 days.
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
C200
Sorry guy, can I ask a quick question are sway bars the same as the anti roll bar?
Every two years I take the W203 in for a service due to this whining noise when I steer. It feels like the steering rack on its way out, but they fix it by replacing the anti roll bar bushes! Is it one and the same - could you point me to the right link?
Thanks
Every two years I take the W203 in for a service due to this whining noise when I steer. It feels like the steering rack on its way out, but they fix it by replacing the anti roll bar bushes! Is it one and the same - could you point me to the right link?
Thanks
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
2003 C32 AMG
great post, i just ended up taking my front strut off completely because it was knocking, long story short i was wondering if anyone knew the part number to the clamps that hold the strut up, the clamps that you have in picture #4, please i can't find them on bma or ecs tuning help a noob out!!!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 7,263
Likes: 169
From: So. Oregon Coast
C230 Sport Coup + 2006 W164 ML350 + 99 Ford Escort RIP
great post, i just ended up taking my front strut off completely because it was knocking, long story short i was wondering if anyone knew the part number to the clamps that hold the strut up, the clamps that you have in picture #4, please i can't find them on bma or ecs tuning help a noob out!!!
Sign up, free account.
Input your VIN number, and surf around till you find it.
If you have a pn thats in the same area, search on it, and it should get you close.
Add an 'A' prefix to any pn's you see listed around here when searching
Remove 'A' prefix when pricing pn's on getmercedesparts.com or parts.com
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 7,263
Likes: 169
From: So. Oregon Coast
C230 Sport Coup + 2006 W164 ML350 + 99 Ford Escort RIP
Doubt a whining noise is due to bushings.
More likely, topping up the power steering fluid.
Yes, anti roll bar is same as sway bar, same as torsion bar.
More likely, topping up the power steering fluid.
Yes, anti roll bar is same as sway bar, same as torsion bar.
Sorry guy, can I ask a quick question are sway bars the same as the anti roll bar?
Every two years I take the W203 in for a service due to this whining noise when I steer. It feels like the steering rack on its way out, but they fix it by replacing the anti roll bar bushes! Is it one and the same - could you point me to the right link?
Thanks
Every two years I take the W203 in for a service due to this whining noise when I steer. It feels like the steering rack on its way out, but they fix it by replacing the anti roll bar bushes! Is it one and the same - could you point me to the right link?
Thanks
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
C32 AMG (W203)
Hi did this yesterday on my C32 with the help of this thread.
When replacing the inverted torx bolts, the thread had been stripped on the subframe. If you find this is the case, get some new (slightly longer) bolts ready. On the left hand side, take off the complete plastic wheel arch lining and reach up and you should feel the bolts sticking through. Stick a washer and nut onto each.
On the right hand side, it doesn't seem as easy as you won't have enough room to get a nut on. Instead, open the bonnet and look through from the top, past the alternator. You should see the bolts sticking through. Get a long 2-foot extension onto your ratchet and (with sticky grease) lower a washer/nut onto your bolts from above.
When replacing the inverted torx bolts, the thread had been stripped on the subframe. If you find this is the case, get some new (slightly longer) bolts ready. On the left hand side, take off the complete plastic wheel arch lining and reach up and you should feel the bolts sticking through. Stick a washer and nut onto each.
On the right hand side, it doesn't seem as easy as you won't have enough room to get a nut on. Instead, open the bonnet and look through from the top, past the alternator. You should see the bolts sticking through. Get a long 2-foot extension onto your ratchet and (with sticky grease) lower a washer/nut onto your bolts from above.
Member
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 136
Likes: 9
From: Upland, CA
c32, c36, ml55, 95 W124 E320, 380sec, Vw mk1-turbo, H3, Porsche-C4, and Harley V-Rod
Very Nice illustration, gotta put mine back back since i had it powercoated. How long did it take because i'm gonna pay someone to do it?
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 795
Likes: 189
From: San Diego, CA
2016 E350 Sport; Mom Wrecked the 2008 E350; sold the 2002 C320
I'm about to install H&R sway bars on my '02 C320 sedan. Doing my research as I'd like to do things once and avoid having to undo/redo stuff requiring me to be under the car.
I came across this thread (hyperlink re: broken sway bar link) but unfortunately, the important pics are not visible.
Anyone have pics or detailed instructions as to washer size, how exactly to install, etc?
On a different note, I'm a little confused as to whether the 12mm sway bar links for the front are shorter???
I've already STFF (searched the fugging forums) till my eyes are crossed but info is so scattered & often conflicting....
I came across this thread (hyperlink re: broken sway bar link) but unfortunately, the important pics are not visible.
Anyone have pics or detailed instructions as to washer size, how exactly to install, etc?
On a different note, I'm a little confused as to whether the 12mm sway bar links for the front are shorter???
I've already STFF (searched the fugging forums) till my eyes are crossed but info is so scattered & often conflicting....
