Looking for thicker OEM Sway-bars

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V-Code Tahoe

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I have upgraded swaybars on pretty much every vehicle I have owned, but am perplexed by the huge markup on the bars these days, their price increases over the years seem to have substantially outpaced inflation (though I have no doubt that Hellwig, Eibach, Belltech, Nolathane, etc bars would be great). I am hoping to find thicker OEM bars that I can purchase used instead. Currently, my front is 1-3/16" (30.2mm) and my rear is 1-1/8" (28.6mm).

From my online research, it looks like the biggest that came stock on any of our trucks is 1-5/16" (33.3mm) front and 1-3/16" (30.2mm) rear. Is this correct? And if so, does anyone have part numbers or models/years/RPO codes that might help me locate some of these thicker bars (or one that you want to sell)? Unfortunately the “wander around your local junkyard with a caliper” option is probably not feasible for me.

Thanks!
 

Joseph Garcia

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I can't help you on acquiring the specific sway bar that you are looking for, but I can tell you that if you decide to spend the money on a great set of sway bars that really enhance the stability/handling capabilities of these trucks, Hellwigs are the way to go.

@915_Tahoe works with GM parts, so there is a chance that he may be able to assist you.
 

Marky Dissod

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I've upgraded swaybars on pretty much every vehicle I've owned ... I'm hoping to find thicker OEM bars that I can purchase used instead.
Currently, my front is 1-3/16" (30.2mm) and my rear is 1-1/8" (28.6mm).

From my online research, it looks like the biggest that came stock on any of our trucks is 1-5/16" (33.3mm) front and 1-3/16" (30.2mm) rear. Is this correct?
If so, does anyone have part numbers or models / years / RPO codes that might help me locate some of these thicker bars (or one that you want to sell)?
Unfortunately the “wander around your local junkyard with a caliper” option is probably not feasible for me.
My understanding, regarding GMT800-vintage, is that parts from 05-06 Z56-PPV Tahoes or Z60 Sielvierrados - possibly including their front torsion bars? -
would make for better handling upgrades to our comfywhumpfie suvs with almost no modifications.
Also been told by reliable sources that we can use Hummer H2 rear swaybar hardware, provided we are willing to do some welding.
 

5StarCustmSolutns

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I have upgraded swaybars on pretty much every vehicle I have owned, but am perplexed by the huge markup on the bars these days, their price increases over the years seem to have substantially outpaced inflation (though I have no doubt that Hellwig, Eibach, Belltech, Nolathane, etc bars would be great). I am hoping to find thicker OEM bars that I can purchase used instead. Currently, my front is 1-3/16" (30.2mm) and my rear is 1-1/8" (28.6mm).

From my online research, it looks like the biggest that came stock on any of our trucks is 1-5/16" (33.3mm) front and 1-3/16" (30.2mm) rear. Is this correct? And if so, does anyone have part numbers or models/years/RPO codes that might help me locate some of these thicker bars (or one that you want to sell)? Unfortunately the “wander around your local junkyard with a caliper” option is probably not feasible for me.

Thanks!

potential option:

Couple years ago I was in search of the same thing for GMT-900 and when I did my rear axle swap, I discovered the sway bars were hollow.. (had no clue)

Couple days of marinating on that later and it occurred to me: What would happen if I filled that hollow core with an epoxy or caulk or expanding foam, that when cured, had just a little pliability so it wouldn't crack and break if flexed.

Typed it in search and found a write up on a Nissan Armada forum about drilling a small hole in each end and filing the void with Great Stuff Large Holes and Cracks (red can). Dude did it and was ecstatic with the results on an Armanda.

Can't remember if he used JB Weld or a welder to fill in holes but either would work. Squirt it in there until it comes out the other side then put some duct tape over the hole or thread a small bolt in there, and keep cramming it in until it won't take anymore. Then cover the entry hole and let it do it's thing for 30min. Patch both holes and test it out. I don't see how it wouldn't work, and don't see what it could hurt as long as the holes get patched well to prevent rust??

please post if you try this!
 

Marky Dissod

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Couple years ago I was in search of the same thing for GMT-900 and when I did my rear axle swap, I discovered the sway bars were hollow. (had no clue)

Couple days of marinating on that later and it occurred to me:
What would happen if I filled that hollow core with an epoxy or caulk or expanding foam, that when cured, had just a little pliability so it wouldn't crack and break if flexed?

Typed it in search, found a write up on a Nissan Armada forum about drilling a small hole in each end and filing the void with Great Stuff Large Holes and Cracks (red can).
Dude, did it and was ecstatic with the results on an Armada.

Can't remember if he used JB Weld or a welder to fill in holes but either would work.
Squirt it in there until it comes out the other side then put some duct tape over the hole or thread a small bolt in there, and keep cramming it in until it won't take anymore.
Then cover the entry hole and let it do its thing for 30min. Patch both holes and test it out.
I don't see how it wouldn't work, and don't see what it could hurt as long as the holes get patched well to prevent rust?
Holy schidt, gotta change my brane's light bulb. AWESOME.
 
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