So I went out to install my swaybar and getting off the endlinks is proving to be a challenge. Apparently the hollow bolts on them dont accept a hex key like I thought. Anyone know off hand what bit I need to get in the hollow link bolts?

 

Those are hex heads. Get the right hex key.

 

You're right they are. I was using the right one (5mm) but apparently acura didn't account for the fact that someone might need to take off the bolts after driving in salt slush for two years. Even after PB blasting the bolt it was a no go and I think I stripped one of the hex heads. (why they didn't put a flat spot on the otherside of the bolt for an open ended wrench like most other similar setups I've dealt with...)

 

Do whatever thrash is needed to remove the bolts
Replacement- nice upgrades, MOOG brand- end links will come with a way to easily tighten, not the `easy for the factory to assemble` allen wrenches

When you are a factory worker blasting them on quick, an allen slips in and locks fully- no stripping

Call a few parts stores to find them
The stock end link isnt enough for the new bar anyway- get stronger parts to handle load

 

Use a impact wrench and you wont have to worry about the allen

 

Careful with that approach if you plan to reuse the end links. With lock nuts, the nut grabs the thread and can spin the ball joint, which may damage it. Of course, if you're planning on replacing the end links, then have at it! Whatever it takes to get those suckers out.

 

i unbolted the the endlink bracket that attaches to the car...then you mess with the allen key when it is off the car.

 

clamp a vise-grip against the metal ring on the other side of the sway bar to keep the joint from spinning and hit it with an impact gun. A few short bursts should be enough to get it off. Since you're keeping the joint from spinning this has the added bonus of allowing you to reuse the link, but it sounds like yours might benefit from being replaced anyway.

 

Heh. I was just coming in here to post that I had just done that to fix it. Vise grip + 14mm wrench= problem solved. At least I own a complete vice grip set now.

Anyhow the bar feels nice. Not as big a difference as my last car, but the rear feels alot more in control around off ramps etc. Only slightly more bumpy on normal roads.