Sway Bar Bushing - Rear

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear sway bar bushings on a 2022 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van, requiring vehicle lifting and rear suspension access.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear sway bar bushing set (left and right) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Sway bar bushing bracket bolts (if corroded) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure vehicle is parked on level ground and place wheel chocks at front wheels
2. Power down the vehicle completely and remove key fob from the cabin
3. Lift vehicle using manufacturer-specified lift points and secure on jack stands if not using a lift
4. Remove both rear wheels to improve access to rear suspension components
5. Spray all sway bar bushing bracket bolts with penetrating lubricant and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes
6. Photograph the bushing and bracket orientation for reference during reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Support rear axle assembly
   Position a hydraulic floor jack under the center of the rear axle assembly or differential housing. Raise the jack until it just contacts and slightly supports the weight of the suspension. This prevents the sway bar from dropping suddenly when bushings are removed.
2. 2

   Locate rear sway bar bushings
   From underneath the vehicle, identify the rear sway bar running laterally across the rear suspension. Locate the two bushing brackets that secure the sway bar to the frame or subframe, typically positioned near the center of the bar on either side of the differential.
3. 3

   Remove driver side bushing bracket
   Using the appropriate socket, remove the bolts securing the driver side sway bar bushing bracket to the frame. There are typically two bolts per bracket. Keep bolts organized for reinstallation. Remove the bracket and inspect the bushing for wear, cracking, or deterioration.
4. 4

   Remove driver side bushing
   Remove the old bushing from the sway bar. The bushing may be a split design that opens or may need to be cut off if severely deteriorated. Clean the sway bar surface with a wire brush to remove any rust, debris, or old bushing material. Inspect the bar for damage or corrosion.
5. 5

   Remove passenger side bushing bracket
   Repeat the removal process for the passenger side bushing bracket. Remove the mounting bolts and bracket, then inspect the bushing condition. Check the bracket for cracks, bends, or damage that would require replacement.
6. 6

   Remove passenger side bushing
   Remove the passenger side bushing from the sway bar and clean the bar surface thoroughly. Ensure both sides of the sway bar are clean and free of debris before installing new bushings.
7. 7

   Install new driver side bushing
   Install the new driver side bushing onto the sway bar in the correct orientation. If the bushing has a split design, ensure the split faces toward the rear or as indicated by manufacturer markings. The bushing should fit snugly on the bar without excessive force. Do not use lubricants on the bushing as this can cause premature wear.
8. 8

   Install driver side bracket
   Position the driver side bracket over the new bushing, aligning the bracket with the frame mounting holes. Start all bolts by hand to ensure proper threading. Tighten bolts in a cross pattern to manufacturer specifications. Since torque specifications are not available in the database, tighten securely and evenly, ensuring the bushing is compressed uniformly by the bracket.
9. 9

   Install new passenger side bushing
   Install the new passenger side bushing onto the sway bar, ensuring it matches the orientation of the driver side bushing. Position the bushing in the correct location relative to the mounting bracket holes on the frame.
10. 10

    Install passenger side bracket
    Position the passenger side bracket over the new bushing and align with frame mounting holes. Start all bolts by hand, then tighten in a cross pattern to ensure even compression. Verify both brackets are seated properly and bushings are not twisted or misaligned.
11. 11

    Lower rear suspension and verify
    Slowly lower the hydraulic jack supporting the rear axle, allowing the suspension to return to normal ride height. Visually inspect both bushings to ensure they are properly seated and brackets are secure. Check for any unusual gaps or misalignment.
12. 12

    Reinstall wheels
    Reinstall both rear wheels, starting lug nuts by hand to prevent cross-threading. Tighten lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle to the ground and perform final lug nut torque to manufacturer specification (typically 120-140 ft-lbs for this vehicle class).

Reassembly

1. Ensure all bushing bracket bolts are tightened securely and evenly
2. Verify bushings are properly seated and not twisted or misaligned
3. Double-check that all tools and parts have been removed from under the vehicle
4. Torque wheel lug nuts to specification after vehicle is on the ground

Verification

• Perform a visual inspection under the vehicle to confirm all brackets are secure and bushings are properly positioned
• Test drive the vehicle at low speed in a safe area and listen for any clunking or unusual noises from the rear suspension
• Drive over gentle bumps and through gradual turns to verify sway bar operation is normal
• After 50-100 miles of driving, re-inspect bushing bracket bolts for proper torque and re-tighten if necessary
• Check for any signs of bushing movement or bracket looseness during the post-installation inspection

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