Cut off front sway end bar links with torch

[tmontague]

Glad to hear you ended up getting it sorted out. Things like that suck and I've definitely been there more times than I care to remember. Just try and keep in mind that when sh*t hits the fan and take hours (or days) longer to do than it should you end up learning various tips and tricks and things to do next time to avoid some of those issues. It's kinda of a learning curve as well as a right of passage of that makes any sense.

In hindsight I should have mentioned the issues with the end links and removing the cowling.

Here's some tips for a southern Ontario car (albeit a bit late):

Not sure of the mileage on your car but if you plan on doing any future work have it oiled sprayed every spring when the salt is off the roads. Before you do spray underneath your car With water and then let it dry.

Avoid using an Allen key bolts if possible, in the case of the struts always remove the wiper cowling and use an impact directly onto the top strut bolt, you'll never have issues with the strut spinning this way.

Always cover every thread of any bolt that you're re installing with anti seize, you or your mechanic will thank you later. Buy a small tub of marine grease and fill the Allen key hole of the new end links when you reinstall them. Every time you remove your front wheels (hopefully at least twice a year) spray all accessible bolts and threads with an oil spray in a can. Especially the end links and bolts on the suspension components.

Also before you put the dust cap back on your strut, pack the top but with marine grease.

Next time you replace your springs or struts it will take about 60mins not including set up and and cleaning.

My bad on not mentioning the end link issue for us salt belt people. I mentioned it in a thread somewhere else but it slipped my mind. If it's any consolation, the first time I swapped my springs it took the better part of a Saturday and a new $70 end link (lifetime warranty) that was unexpected.

I can say that after all the shitty days spent under a car with things going wrong in the past, they have helped me trouble shoot other issues I run into now. Its also helped me appreciate the value of anti seize and oil coatings.

Step away from working on the car for a bit and let the next thing you do be something fun and simple. Enjoy the new springs!