70 w-30

I’m installing a new 1” rear sway bar. How do you figure out how many shims (if any) to install? The original bar, bolts and shims were in the trunk when I got it. I thought I saw a thread that talked about it.

Thanks,
Ben

oldcutlass

Basically fit the sway bar to the control arms. The shims are to take up the mounting gap (if any) to keep the arms from flexing inward when you tighten the bolts.

70 w-30

Thanks! It’s great to have this website to go to to find out things like this!

Vintage Chief

I trust you know the control arms need to be the "boxed" variety? Since the vehicle is a 1970 Cutlass, normally it would not have boxed control arms, but instead open control arms; unless the heavy duty suspension was ordered or the control arms were upgraded/modified.

joe_padavano

What everyone above has said. I'll just add that the only purpose of the shims is to take up manufacturing tolerances in the distance between the two lower control arms and in the forming of the sway bar. The stock shims are designed to slip into place. Just install the arm to the LCAs with the bolts loosely installed and stuff shims into the gap equally on each side until it is tight without forcing more into place. Then tighten the fasteners. Done.

monzaz

Might also what to test fit the bar with the suspension loaded. It does make a difference.

70 w-30

Thanks for all the advice! Yes I have boxed control arms.

joe_padavano

Good point, Jim. I should have mentioned that.

monzaz

That is why we have the forum. Everyone can chime in and make certain the person that needs the info gets it all . And if there is conflict...We can discuss and all figure it out.
Have a great weekend to all.
Jim
J D Race