When replacing a stabilizer bar in a Ford Explorer, always make sure that the replacement bar is the exact same diameter as the one being replaced. Changing the diameter of the bar will change the steering characteristics to an understeer or oversteer situation. The factory -- relative to the height, weight and width of the vehicle -- determined the diameter of the bar for the safest control in cornering situations.
Raise and support the vehicle on jack stands. Remove the sway bar links using a wrench to hold the head of the center bolt and a socket to remove the lower nut. Remove the metal clamps on both ends of the center section of the sway bar securing the sway bar to the frame. Remove the sway bar from under the vehicle.
Lay the new sway bar on the floor under the radiator with the arm facing rearward. Place the rubber bushings on the center section with the flat end of the bushing upward. Place the rubber bushings as close as possible to the same location as the ones on the old bar.
Lift the sway bar arms, then lay them on the topside of the lower control arms. Place the floor jack under the frame where the sway bar is to be attached.
Lay the center section of the sway bar on the floor jack. Raise the jack to lift the sway bar up to align with the frame. Move the rubber bushings so they are aligned between the two bolts for the clamps in the frame.
Install the clamps to the frame and thread the bolts in about five threads each, leaving the sway bar free enough to be aligned. Install the sway bar links using a wrench to hold the head of the center bolt and a socket to tighten the lower nut.
Align the sway bar so that the sway bar links are straight up. Make sure the rubber bushings are lined up under the metal clamps and tighten securely.
