jeffm@sri-unix (11/11/82)
Installing anti-sway bars on a Rabbit: Well, you basically get all the tools out, and drill lots of holes and after 5 hours you clean up because it's all installed. Mind you I'm still puzzling over step 5's admonition "don't over-tighten the sway bar link nuts". Now on to the important stuff, how it drives. The ride is not quite as smooth as before but then again, it's not uncomfortably harsh. It's a lot more solid feeling. And body roll has been substantially reduced (although a 21mm bar as opposed to the 19mm bar I installed would probably have a more pronounced effect.) It's also a lot more fun to drive. All in all, I think its about the most cost effective way to improve the handling feel of the Rabbit. Shorter springs would probably set me back $200 and serve mainly to worsen the ride. Wider tires and wheels would cost $600 and have no effect on body roll. I had already installed new shocks (Kontrolle's) and they improved the feel but also made the ride a bit harsher (and had only minimal effect on body roll). By the way, the Kontrolles are a good shock buy, as they have a lifetime warranty and in my case cost only $110 for four (plus $50 to install the fronts, I installed the rears with no problem). If you wanted to buy your own set of anti-sway bars there are a number of sources. Quickor Engineering (503-646-9696) sells a massive 22mm front, 19mm rear set for ~ $160.00. I've heard good things about the quality of their kit. Addco sells their set for a little cheaper. Addco is available from most parts houses. As I already stated, GMP (where I bought mine) sells the 19mm/19mm combination for $80 and a 21mm/22mm set for $105.