Terrible noise in rear suspension.

[MTGunner]

Removed rear sway bar bushings to find they are worn. Guessing I need to replace link ends also. Cannot remove nut from right rear link end. Suggestions? MTG

[MTGunner]

Crawled up under rear suspension to find sway bar link ends OK. Will have to replace bushings and drive. Four link and panhard bar are secure. Shocks good. Springs good. Muffler good. So, ?????

MTG

[MTGunner]

Is it necessary to replace rear suspension link ends if not worn? MTG

[MTGunner]

OK, answered my own question. Pulled the rear sway bar assembly apart. Links are junk. Ordered new. So, will get new bushings and links. Guess I will be looking at front links soon. BTW, you cannot believe how much dirt and gravel I vacuumed out. But, this is an Arizona car and very little rust. All came apart easily. After the front bar links need to chase oil leak. Hope to hell not a rear main seal. Only drips a drop each time. Engine uses VERY little oil. I check frequently. 180,000 miles plus. 
Ya’ know, I have a 2023 Tacoma P/U that is better on fuel, good power and lots of creature comfort. But, I love my 2000 Pathfinder. It’s a beast. MTG

 

Edited July 12, 2025 by MTGunner