Installing performance parts on classic vehicles can be a rewarding experience for enthusiasts, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. ADDCO sway bars, known for their precision and durability, are a popular upgrade for vehicles like the MG MGB and similar models. However, as with any high-performance component, proper installation is critical. This article explores real-world experiences, technical issues, and practical solutions related to the ADDCO rear sway bar installation, drawing exclusively from user-reported issues and manufacturer responses documented in available materials.
Overview of ADDCO Sway Bars and Warranty
ADDCO is a manufacturer of performance suspension components, including sway bars (also known as anti-roll bars), which help reduce body roll during cornering. The ADDCO Forever Warranty provides a guarantee for the product's quality, though with some important limitations. According to the warranty documentation, ADDCO does not supervise the installation of its kits, and therefore, its liability is limited to the cost of the kit itself. This means that any installation issues are typically the responsibility of the end user or the installer.
To register the warranty, users are required to complete an online form, which also serves as a means of feedback about the product and the retailer or online seller from which it was purchased. Once the form is submitted, the user should receive a confirmation email acknowledging the completed registration.
Despite the warranty offering, users are encouraged to contact ADDCO directly at 1-800-621-8916 if they encounter difficulties with the installation or the instructions. ADDCO emphasizes customer satisfaction and claims to produce some of the best performance sway bars in the U.S.
Common Installation Challenges and User Reports
Several users have reported difficulties when installing ADDCO rear sway bars, particularly when it comes to hardware compatibility and fitment issues. One such user, identified as 71GTLV, posted on an online forum seeking assistance with their installation. According to their account, the installation process did not proceed smoothly, and they encountered multiple issues with the parts supplied in the kit.
Incorrect Bushings and Hardware
One of the initial problems reported was the receipt of the wrong size rubber bushings. This issue was eventually resolved when the user was sent a replacement set of bushings. However, this delay and inconsistency in the parts provided raised concerns about the quality control process and the effectiveness of ADDCO's customer support.
The user also noted that the hardware included in the kit did not seem to align properly with the mounting brackets. Specifically, the kit provided a 5/16-inch bolt, a 3/8-inch washer, and 3/8-inch holes in the brackets. This mismatch can lead to instability in the suspension system, as the hardware must fit correctly to ensure the sway bar functions as intended.
Another reported issue was the bushing retention bracket, which was described as being wider than the bushing itself and did not fit completely over it. This misalignment can affect the sway bar's ability to control lateral movement, which is its primary purpose. A contributor to the same forum suggested that the user may have received the wrong installation kit altogether, as the metal bracket should typically match the depth of the bushing.
Installation Instructions and Bracket Orientation
One of the most critical aspects of sway bar installation is the proper orientation of the bracket. According to ADDCO's instructions, the bracket should be mounted at a 90-degree angle underneath the vehicle's suspension components. However, the user noted that a photo from a previous installation showed the bracket positioned at a 45-degree angle on top of the bracket, which contradicted the official guidance.
This discrepancy between the installation instructions and visual examples from other users highlights a potential issue with the clarity of the ADDCO documentation. The user eventually received confirmation from ADDCO that the bushings were incorrect and that a new installation kit with the correct parts would be sent. The user also decided to use 3/8-inch bolts and washers to better match the bracket holes and minimize movement.
Customer Support and Alternative Solutions
The user also expressed frustration with ADDCO's customer support, stating that reaching a technician was "horrible." This sentiment is echoed by other forum contributors who have had similar experiences. While ADDCO eventually provided a solution in the form of a replacement kit, the delay and initial confusion may deter some users from proceeding with the installation or even purchasing the product in the future.
One user suggested returning the ADDCO kit and switching to an alternative product, such as a setup from Dave Hadley. This indicates that some enthusiasts may prefer alternative brands or installation methods if ADDCO's customer service or product consistency falls short of expectations.
Technical Considerations and Performance Implications
Beyond installation challenges, the performance implications of the ADDCO sway bar are also a topic of discussion. A user who had previously installed a 7/8-inch front and 3/4-inch rear ADDCO bar on their MGB reported an aggressive handling characteristic. The car was described as "very tail happy," meaning that the rear end of the vehicle had a tendency to break loose and oversteer during cornering. This can be dangerous for inexperienced drivers and may require additional suspension tuning or tire upgrades to manage safely.
This experience underscores the importance of matching sway bar sizes to the vehicle's overall suspension setup. A 3/4-inch rear bar may be too stiff for certain configurations, leading to unpredictable handling. Another user recommended the FabTek sway bar as a more balanced alternative, suggesting that not all performance sway bars are equally suitable for every application.
Manufacturer Responses and Corrective Actions
Despite the initial installation difficulties, ADDCO did respond to the user's concerns and provided a replacement installation kit with the correct bushings. The user also noted that ADDCO confirmed that the bracket should be mounted at a 90-degree angle underneath the suspension components, not on top as some photos suggested.
This corrective action demonstrates ADDCO's willingness to address customer concerns, even if the initial communication was delayed. However, the need for a replacement kit and hardware adjustments indicates that the original product may have had inconsistencies in its design or manufacturing process.
The user also shared that they would post a corrected photo after completing the installation with the new parts. This feedback is valuable for other users who may encounter similar issues and can help improve the overall user experience by providing real-world examples of the correct installation process.
Conclusion
ADDCO sway bars are a popular upgrade for classic vehicles like the MG MGB, offering improved handling and reduced body roll. However, the installation process can be challenging, particularly when it comes to hardware compatibility, fitment issues, and the clarity of the manufacturer's instructions. Real-world user experiences highlight the importance of precise part dimensions, correct bracket orientation, and effective customer support in ensuring a successful installation.
While ADDCO offers a Forever Warranty for its products, the limitations of this warranty emphasize the need for users to take full responsibility for the installation process. This includes verifying the accuracy of the parts received, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and seeking assistance when necessary. In some cases, users may find it beneficial to explore alternative products or installation methods if ADDCO's offerings do not meet their expectations.
For anyone considering an ADDCO sway bar installation, it is essential to be prepared for potential challenges and to approach the process with patience and attention to detail. By learning from the experiences of other users and following the manufacturer's guidance closely, it is possible to achieve a successful installation that enhances the vehicle's performance and driving dynamics.