01 Chrysler Van Problem #1

JR wrote:
> The bushing(s) on the front stabilizer have failed 4 times since 2001
> (new). Any ideas?

I don't have a van, but I do have to replace the sway bar bushings in my
Concorde about once a year due to the type of driving: It sees about 3/4
mile of uneven gravel road every week day (my commute to work). Does
your van see a bit of uneven pavement on a regular basis? That's what
can wear those bushings - anytime the front wheels are at a different
level relative to each other and the rear wheels, those bushings are
worked and are under pressure. I've tried OEM and aftermarket bushings
including the polyurethane, and they are all about the same for
longevity. I'm back to using the OEM's (which may in fact be polys for
all I know).

I've often thought an enterprising company could make extended (extra
long) bushing holders and bushings for the more "severe duty" usage
applications. I've got a relatively unstiff (smaller diameter) sway
bars on my Concordes (I own two). One of the favorite mods on the LH
cars is to upgrade the sway bars to the thickest ones available (the one
for the 300M Special). The problem would obviously be worse with a
stiffer sway bar.

Bill Putney
(To reply by e-mail, replace the last letter of the alphabet in my
address with the letter 'x')