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Panhard Bar? Hose Mod?

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Old 03-07-2007, 06:49 PM
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Default Panhard Bar? Hose Mod?

two questions in one .........

i've been looking through the suspension section posts.

how do i tell if the panhard bar bushings are going bad? i've noticed a little bit of "unstability" in the rear of my car, from side to side. the car has 100k miles on it. would i replace the bushings in this bar, or purchase a replacement?

one post that i read mentioned a "hose mod". what is that??

thanks

bill
Old 03-07-2007, 07:08 PM
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Hose mod replaces the thick rubber isolator with thin rubber heater hose to lower the rear about a half inch.

But if you've got 100,000 miles on stock shocks, I am positive that would be the main cause of your instability, rather than panhard bar bushings.

The stock shocks are terrible to begin with and get worse with every mile.
Old 03-07-2007, 07:30 PM
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OldeSkool is correct. Stock shocks are a weak link, and any shocks would need replacement at 100k.

I also think the PHB is a great upgrade. You bushings are likely OK, but an aftermarket rod/rod adjustable PanHard Bar will solve that little side hop these cars tend to do over bumps. It is caused by the soft rubber bushings deflecting. These are relatively cheap, and very easy to install. Plus when you get an adjustable one you can better center the rear to compinsate for build tolerance issues or lowered ride height.
Old 03-07-2007, 10:02 PM
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Panhard will slop around if you don't keep the mounts tight and
bind up the rubber. Might just check it. I splayed out the tabs
with too much grease (aftermarket PHR) and had to back them
up with fender washers to get it to quit banging.
Old 03-08-2007, 02:33 PM
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thanks guys. i have new shocks all around on order, along with several other maintenance items. last week was a pretty blustery time in northern virginia, with 35 - 40 mph gusts on my evening commutes. i noticed some slight unstability in the rear during these gusts.

i'll get the shocks installed and see how that changes things.




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