ND MX-5 Flyin' Miata Sway Bar Installation

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to installing front and rear sway bars on a Mazda MX-5 Miata. The process involves disassembling several components, removing the stock sway bar, and carefully installing the new sway bar while ensuring all connections are secure. Following these steps will help enhance your vehicle's handling and performance.

Chapter 1: Front Disassembly

To begin the sway bar installation, gather the following tools:

• Various metric sockets and wrenches
• Ratchet
• Small flat blade screwdriver
• 5 millimeter hex key

Steps for Front Disassembly

1. Lift the Car

   • Use a lift or jack and jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.

2. Remove Front Wheels

   • Take off the front wheels on both sides.

3. Remove Fender Liners

   • Use a small flat blade screwdriver to pop out the plastic rivets holding the liners.
   • Remove screws using either a Phillips screwdriver or an 8 millimeter socket.

4. Take Off Center Splash Pan

   • Remove two screws at the front using a 10 millimeter socket.
   • Detach two plastic rivets carefully to avoid losing pieces.

5. Remove Plastic Panels

   • Each panel has two bolts requiring a 10 millimeter socket. Use a gear wrench for the harder-to-reach ones.

6. Remove Lower and Middle Radiator Mounts

   • Use a 12 millimeter socket for the lower mount and a 10 millimeter socket for the middle mount.

7. Disconnect Intermediary Pipe

   • If present, unplug the coolant temperature sensor.
   • Remove two 10 millimeter bolts to free the pipe.

8. Move Power Steering System Wiring

   • Disconnect the connectors and let the harness dangle.

9. Remove Stock Front Sway Bar

   • Uninstall End Links: Use a 14 millimeter socket. If the ball joint rotates, use a 5 millimeter Allen key to hold it still.
   • Remove Brackets: Use a 14 millimeter socket to take off the nuts.

Chapter 2: FM Front Sway Bar Installation

Steps for Front Sway Bar Installation

1. Position the New Sway Bar

   • Carefully maneuver the sway bar ends up and over the tie rod ends.
   • Rotate the arms of the bar forward and push it back.

2. Install Bushings and Brackets

   • Apply grease from the provided packet to the inner diameter of the bushings.
   • Align the bushing slit with the sway bar and install the brackets loosely.

3. Install End Links

   • Start with the center hole for adjustments later.

4. Center the Sway Bar

   • Ensure the sway bar is centered side to side. This can be done visually.

5. Secure Components

   • Install the lock nuts using the supplied Allen key and tighten to ensure stability.

6. Torque the Brackets

   • Tighten the sway bar brackets to a torque spec of 32 to 45 pound-feet.

7. Reassemble Other Components

   • Reinstall the power steering system wiring and reconnect the intermediary pipe.

8. Reinstall Panels and Splash Guards

   • Follow the reverse order of disassembly to put everything back together without over-tightening screws.

Chapter 3: Rear Sway Bar Removal and Installation

Steps for Rear Sway Bar Removal

1. Remove End Links

   • Use a 14 millimeter socket to detach the end links. Hold the ball joint with a 5 millimeter hex key if it spins.

2. Remove Rear Sway Bar

   • Use a 12 millimeter socket to remove the nuts holding the brackets and slide the sway bar off.

Steps for Rear Sway Bar Installation

1. Grease the Bushings

   • Apply grease inside the bushings to prevent squeaking.

2. Position the New Sway Bar

   • Ensure the angled end is oriented correctly (top in, bottom out) and slide the bar into place.

3. Secure Brackets and End Links

   • Attach the brackets and end links, starting in the middle hole for adjustments.

4. Tighten Everything Securely

   • Ensure all components are tight and secure.

Conclusion

You have successfully installed both front and rear sway bars on your Mazda MX-5 Miata. This process enhances your vehicle's stability and handling. Make sure to double-check all connections and components before taking your car for a drive. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out for assistance. Enjoy your improved driving experience!