Stabilizer connecting rod torque question

[7T1240]

FSM says:

"When assembling the stabilizer connecting rod and transverse link, be sure to tighten the first nut to 8.7 to 13.7 ft-lb torque and tighten the lock nut to secure the first nut."

Haynes says:

"...do not tighten the mounting bolts or nuts beyond the specified torque which is 18 lb/ft for the (stabilizer) bracket bolts and 15 lb/ft for the drop link nuts."

Wick Humble says:

"Tighten the link until the rubber grommets bulge slightly--don't try to bottom the thread. When you estimate the links are tight enough, jam the nuts together. Then tighten the (top) locknut--you may have to hold the link with Vise-Grips pliers."

I need some help here. Do any of these torque specs. refer to the top locknut on the front stabilizer connecting rod?

And when I torque the bottom bushing to the lowest torque spec cited (8.7 ft-lb - FSM) the new stock rubber bushing is significantly more compressed than Humble's "bulge slightly" recommendation (see attached photo). What do you guys suggest for stock rubber?

Thanks, Gary S.

[moritz55]

I'm curious here as well. Your bottom bushing looks compressed quite a bit but not terrible. Since the range for torquing is so wide (8.7 - 19.5 ft-lbs) back off toward the lower side of the spec to give it more rubber. Are your bushings rubber or urethane?

I have new urethane bushings/grommets coming. I interpret the following:

Lower Bushings attaching the rod to the Transverse link are to be torqued to 13.7-18.1 ft-lbs. (then use a lock nut to assure they stay in position).

Upper Bushings attaching the rod to the Stabilizer Bar are to be torqued to 8.7-19.5 ft-lbs. (then use the lock nut to assure they stay in position). This is quite a large range so I was going to go to a mid-point and assure the bushings are compressed at least 50% before locking it in place with the lock nut).

The Stabilizer Bracket (attaches to the frame) are to be torqued to 13.7-18.1 ft-lbs.(I didn't look to see if there is a lock nut - but if there is, then attach it locking this in place as well).

This is would be my approach.

Edited September 14, 2009 by moritz55

[7T1240]

I used the stock, rubber bushings. Another member here responded to my question - these are his instructions, with photos.

"8.7 foot lbs is way to tight that is about 105 in lbs. I torque mine to

35-45 in lbs. see attached pictures."

[moritz55]

Excellent , thanks for the info. I'll do this when I install mine...

I presume when you attach the Stabilizer Bar to the Frame you torque to 13.7-18.1 ft-lbs.

Many thanks...