This is probably a stupid thread but I just wanted to get some input on this. A few days ago I noticed that my rear driver's side end link was just dangling from the sway bar, the mounting bracket that connects to the top of it was broke.

I was playing around on some good twisties tonight and didn't notice any difference in handling. I completely forgot it was broke till about 15 minutes ago. To me, it doesn't seem like the end links have any effect on the sway bar or handling characteristics. They seem to small to support any major weight anyways so......

Here's my question: What is the purpose of the end links?

 

The sway bars and endlinks don't have to support the weight of the car, they just have to be strong enough to resist body roll. If even one endlink is not connected on either side, then the swaybar is doing nothing. In your case the rear swaybar was doing nothing, which would cause understeer. If you have upgraded springs/shocks, it would be more difficult to notice that the rear swaybar wasn't doing anything.

 

Thanks. I have coil overs that are set fairly stiff so thats probably why I didn't notice anything.

 

My was broken when I was installing 350z springs and brakes. I couldn't tell you if it was that big an issue because I was changing other things at the same time. By the way, I had the local Nissan dealer order the part. It was $5 cheaper and they were able to get it in a day sooner.

 

aftermarket sway bars? if so what kind/what setting are they on?

 

Hotchkis sway bars, rear is set at medium stiffness.