I've started pulling the suspension parts out of my Bird and I've noticed that the hardware seems to not want to fully cooperate in coming apart in places (sway bars, LCA's, etc), and has to be cut off (pass side LCA) or breaks. My question is, since I will be purchasing a LOT of new suspension pieces (LCA's, torque arm and track bar, bushings, shocks, springs), how many of these come with new hardware, if any, and if they don't come with hardware, where do I get new hardware? I can probably clean up what's halfway decent with taps/dies and a wire brush, but there are spots where I'm going to need new hardware (pass side LCA HAS to be cut off as the bolts are frozen in the bushing sleeves).

Here are some:

http://www.spohn.net/shop/1982-1992-...Hardware-Kits/

JamesC

I'm drooling here... So tired of looking at all of the rusty crud under there. I think I'm going to have to rename my project "Rust MUST Die!".

Is it a good idea to put these in coated with anti-seize? If I have to remove some of these parts, I don't want to have to replace bolts again.

After the nightmare I experienced with my a-arms, I used anti-seize. Chances are, however, that it's unneeded a second time around.

JamesC

is that a chance your willing to take though?

The reason I asked about the anti-seize is that I know there are some bolts and nuts you're not supposed to put anything on (wheel lugs, for one). Even though there should still be enough of the stuff left on the threads when the hardware is separated, a tube of anti-seize should last long enough (years) for re-application if needed.

Use anti-sieze.....

I installed a new panhard bar a while back (Aluminum adjustable version). After some time hammering it with an impact gun, I managed to get the original hardware and the bar out. Reinstalled the bar with original hardware, all was good.

Fast forward some time (Not very long)... I'm forced to part out my car, and I'm removing the panhard as part of that. But the bolt on the drivers side has siezed to the sleeve... Not fun. Learn from my mistake, use anti-sieze

being from new england, i know weather's not kinda to my vehicles. if you can use stainless, go that route. i'd also use anti-seize where possible.

If I can find stainless suspension hardware, you can bet I'm going to use it. Should go nicely with the stainless brake and fuel lines I'm going to put under there. And anti-seize is going everywhere as I have WAY too many bolts that are breaking and freezing up.

Bringing this back from near-death:

Wondering where to get the U-bolts for the rear sway bar mounts (IIRC, that's what they were used for as we don't have leaf springs). Are these dealer-only? There was a couple of other things, but I need sleep and I forgot ATM...