From: utzoo!decvax!cca!hplabs!hao!menlo70!sytek!zehntel!teklabs!tekcrd!azure!bronze!jeffm@sri-unix
Newsgroups: net.auto.vw
Title: Build your own GTI, part 2
Article-I.D.: bronze.275
Posted: Thu Nov 11 13:04:14 1982
Received: Tue Nov 16 02:45:07 1982

Installing anti-sway bars on a Rabbit:
	Well, you basically get all the tools out, and drill
lots of holes and after 5 hours you clean up because it's all
installed.  Mind you I'm still puzzling over step 5's admonition
"don't over-tighten the sway bar link nuts".  
	Now on to the important stuff, how it drives. The ride 
is not quite as smooth as before but then again, it's not
uncomfortably harsh.  It's a lot more solid feeling.  And body roll
has been substantially reduced (although a 21mm bar as opposed to
the 19mm bar I installed would probably have a more pronounced
effect.)  It's also a lot more fun to drive.
All in all, I think its about the most cost effective
way to improve the handling feel of the Rabbit.  Shorter springs
would probably set me back $200 and serve mainly to worsen the
ride.  Wider tires and wheels would cost $600 and have no effect on 
body roll.  I had already installed new shocks (Kontrolle's) and
they improved the feel but also made the ride a bit harsher
(and had only minimal effect on body roll).
By the way, the Kontrolles are a good shock buy, as they have
a lifetime warranty and in my case cost only $110 for four
(plus $50 to install the fronts, I installed the rears with no
problem).
	If you wanted to buy your own set of anti-sway bars there
are a number of sources.  Quickor Engineering (503-646-9696)
sells a massive 22mm front, 19mm rear set for ~ $160.00.
I've heard good things about the quality of their kit. 
Addco sells their set for a little cheaper.  Addco is available
from most parts houses.  As I already stated, GMP (where
I bought mine) sells the 19mm/19mm combination for $80 and
a 21mm/22mm set for $105.