DWS964

I am installing boots on my sway bar link rod end bearings to help protect them, and wondered if I should apply some kind of lube on them prior to installing the boots. I know they are claimed to be self-lubricating, but would seem to offer some protection, and not harm, the bearings. Pic of the style of boots I am installing (shown on my new toe links, not yet installed)
Thanks

Matt Romanowski

It won't hurt to put one of your favorite oils on there (HHS2000, WD40, etc), but rod ends need maintenance. You should spray them anytime the car goes out in the rain and in regular intervals. It only takes a little crud or corrosion to start locking one up.

paradisenb

Wouldn't silicone grease do a better job and WD40?

racing916

Dow 111 is amazing stuff we use it on everything.

http://www.drillspot.com/products/31...nt_And_Sealant

DWS964

Thanks for the suggestion. I sourced some Wurth HHS-K (previously HHS2000) directly from Wurth, and it looks very promising. Cleaning and reassembling the rod ends, seals, and links.

KevinGross

The concern with both lubrication and the rubber boots is that they trap moisture and debris, doing more damage than good. I use neither, stick with quality rod ends (sourced from Baker Precision), and like the rest of any track car, keep an eye on their condition, esp checking for any looseness that develops.

Kevin
Catellus Engineering

RichFL

The Ferrari recommendation for anti-roll bar supports is red grease. CRC makes SL3190 Sta-Plex Extreme Pressure Red Grease.

Gofishracing

HHS2000 is very thick. I have some- I'd be afraid of dirt particles sticking and working it's way into rod end. Mine are uncovered. I usually just clean them with brake cleaner & compressed air. Not sure which is better. To lube or not to lube. that is the question.

KaiB

My shop tells me no lube.

Matt Romanowski

It's a catch 22. No lube and you get some corrosion that locks them up. Lube and you can keep the corrosion out but they might get some dirt in them. Pick you method of failure!

The best are the people who buy the teflon lined and then mount them in a drill and spin out the teflon.

Adker

I clean the joints after each run and then put some silicon spray on them. I am going to try chain lube next time since it is designed to operate in this type of environment.

https://shopping.yahoo.com/857495671...ZgmolQ?bfr=0.0

morsini

Repels dirt? Me thinks they exaggerate.

DWS964

I had the same concerns regarding lube (pick up dirt), boots (trap moisture and dirt), no lube (no protection).

Follow through question....
In lieu of nice adjustable links built with rod ends - Best choice for links to use with PSS9 suspension and aftermarket sways (HR), that can endure daily driving. Apparently stock links will not work.

Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems

I have my own opinion about this based on field experience, however I would recommend doing what I did: contact the manufacturer for their advice for the specific product you will use. These people have the expertise you want about what they make.

Just remember spherical bearings are race car parts and as such, will never last as long as the OEM items your car came with. Daily driving duties shorten the potential life depending on local environmental conditions.

Matt Romanowski

Care to share?