AWD rear swaybar

[TedK]

Hello, I want to install a Hellwig rear swaybar on my 2000 Safari AWD hightop conversion van. I keep coming up with the Hellwig P/N 7534. But all the vender sites state this is for RWD only. I don't see the difference in the rear axle on the AWD and the RWD. Am I missing something? Is the P/N 7534 going to fit on my van? I prefer the Hellwig because it mounts over the axle instead of below it. Any clarity on this would help. Thanks, Ted

[MrJames]

Ted

I am sorry that I can answer your specific question. The rear sway bar may be the best way to go given that you have a high top conversion van which is already top heavy. Keeping the existing leaf springs with the proper tires and no extra lift seems good to me.

[doyoulikeithere]

I can tell you for certain that the 2wd and AWD rear axle/spring assebly is identical.
I put a rear axle and leafs from a 95 AWD into an 87 2wd van, no problem.

I would say with confidence that the helwig REAR sway bar that fits a 2wd Stro, will also fit an AWD stro of the same-ish year.

Only differences in axles, is in later years when they went from 5 stud drum brakes, to 6 stud disk brakes (in the later years around 2000 I think).
And even those 6 lug axles are swappable between 2 & 4 wd of the same (6 bolt wheel) vans.

[astroturf]

Have a look here for a Helwig installed on an AWD Van...

viewtopic.php?f=66&t=1961&p=20025&hilit ... bar#p20025

Jim

[MrJames]

It seems that a rear sway bar can be installed.

Am I incorrect in believing that I have seen different mounting methods ? Like where and how to attach to the axle and to the "body". Is it better to attach the ends of the bar to the springs or the body ?

I hope this question(s) is not too dumb.

[MountainManJoe]

You attach them to the body to prevent it from rolling.

[LiftedAWDAstro]

I know for a fact the Hellwig 7534 does fit AWD's. I installed one on a 98, 03 and my current 05.

[doyoulikeithere]

It seems that a rear sway bar can be installed.

Am I incorrect in believing that I have seen different mounting methods ? Like where and how to attach to the axle and to the "body". Is it better to attach the ends of the bar to the springs or the body ?

I hope this question(s) is not too dumb.

Just instal per the manufacturers recommendations.
If you dont buy new, you can probably download the instructions still.

[MrJames]

I almost deleted what I wrote because I did realize how DUMB my question was. Of course it should be connected to the body to work. Dahaa.

I thought that I saw a photo of a rear sway bar attached to the leaf spring. Damn if I could find it again.

[TedK]

Thanks to all for the info. LiftedAWDAstro, thank you. That is what I needed, the confirmation that it did fit, so I could order one. Thanks, Ted