[Stillrollin]

My mechanic is a bit anxious that he may need to replace the end links (or at least wants them on hand just in case).

EC says nothing else is needed when installing Eibach springs (OEM End Links are fine). And I trust them. I'm curious what some of you wrenches think though. Should I tell my guy he has nothing to worry about or should I just order them?

tia

 

[Kain]

Nope. OEM endlinks are fine for such a mild drop.

 

[OilTrader]

I replaced the sway bars front and back last week on my '18 Abarth. I used the OEM endlinks. No problems whatsoever. The nuts looked a bit rusty so I soaked them in PB Blaster overnight. No problems at all with the install. FYI, the front sway bar is what people complain about. I removed the steering rack and a pair of plastic valances on each side. I was able by myself with jack stands, to do the installation with no frustration. Of note, I did not see on any instruction sheet removing the plastic valances. Also, there is a bolt on top of the coolant line that needs to be removed that will make the steering rack very easy to slide out.

 

[Stillrollin]

Thanks for the affirmation gents.

Saw my mechanic today and with some more insight and education (he watched the NGEN install video) he's comfortable moving forward without new end links. We're on the same page. I'm so glad I have mechanic-friend I deal with.

Install scheduled for a week from today.

 

[Czlowiek]

As others said, it's not really required, however it is generally good practice to do so regardless

 

[Stillrollin]

Confirmed, new end links not necessary.
First picture of the car lowered:

 

[Mikeydred]

If you don't mind....approximately how much for the Eibach install? Have the same springs and would rather not do it myself.....Thanks

 

[Kain]

It's a 4 to 5-hour job, so whatever the book rate is in your area. $500 seems to be common... but that is more than twice the costs of the springs themselves.

 

[TX_Bandit]

As others said, it's not really required, however it is generally good practice to do so regardless

Unless the end of the sway bar is too far from the horizontal position when the suspension is at rest there is no need to replace end links. The majority of time, if you are dropping less than 2 inches, the stock links will work.

 

[Stillrollin]

If you don't mind....approximately how much for the Eibach install? Have the same springs and would rather not do it myself.....Thanks

$600 cash.
6 hours. He’s a friend and is meticulous. Well worth it to me.

 

[TX_Bandit]

Just a suggestion, but how about breaking a bit of a sweat and twisting a wrench for $0? Instructions are on line and tools can be rented. It's nuts, bolts and a bit of patience. Suspension work is not rocket science.

 

[Mikeydred]

Not really sure why the "snark" but actually it has nothing to do with "breaking a sweat" or it being "rocket science", and more about not having access to my garage/equipment for the next few months (ie. reasons that don't concern you).....but thanks for the pro-tip......

 

[mtnghost]

I believe @TX_Bandit was trying to be encouraging. Typing sometimes looses context, it happens all the time on this forum. Most members like to encourage other members to be come involved with their cars as an added experience of ownership.

 

[Kain]

To be fair since we have a fairly wide age-range amongst owners, there may be physical limitations at play. I did my springs myself just because I couldn't justify in my head the cost, but my back let me know the next day how unappreciative it was. 20 years ago, I could've done the install while doing a keg stand (maybe literally). A big reason why I do my oil changes via extraction is so I don't have to climb underneath. My physical prime is behind me, and I need to be judicious.

 

[Stillrollin]

^^^ Agree, though it's not limited to physical limitations. I have absolutely no inclination to work on my car. Doesn't make me enjoy or appreciate it any less.

Suggesting how strangers spend their time and money , especially with that tone, is a slippery slope.

 

[TX_Bandit]

I meant the post as informal and lighthearted, like guys hanging out in a garage. I'll stay off your threads to prevent further misunderstanding.

 

[Stillrollin]

Nah, not necessary. I ordinarily appreciate your contributions. I misinterpreted your post. It happens. No offense taken and I could have been more thoughtful in my response as well (or better yet, not responded at all).

This has always been a feel good site. Let's keep it that way. Too much negativity in the rest of the world.

 

[Mikeydred]

All good here as well......

 

[azzura]

Well funnily enough I seemed to get the impression (before this thread) that new, shorter drop links would be required with lowering springs, or maybe that was only for people fitting uprated anti-roll (sway) bars? Whatever, I have both fitted, but only after I got a set of adjustable drop links for front and rear. No problem with the fronts (shorter than OE, makes sense) but the rears are longer which seems crazy so I haven’t fitted them.