Parts for your 1987 Suzuki Jimny-Sway bars & links

1987 Suzuki Jimny sway-bars-&-links

Based on factory documentation for the SJ413/Samurai/Sierra platform used by the 1987 Suzuki Jimny, this model is fitted with a front stabiliser (sway) bar and end links. Technical references include the Suzuki SJ413/Samurai factory service manual (mid‑1980s to early ’90s editions) and Suzuki’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for SJ410/SJ413, both of which list a front sway bar, D-bushes, and link rod assemblies, the Haynes Suzuki SJ Series manual also illustrates the same hardware. Rear sway bars were market- and trim-dependent, with many 1987 vehicles supplied without a rear bar.

On the 1987 Suzuki Jimny, the sway-bars-&-links help keep the leaf-sprung, solid-axle front end tidy on-road. The bar resists body roll through corners, steadies the ute in crosswinds, and sharpens steering response. The links tie the bar to the axle, while the D-bushes clamp it to the chassis. For a light, narrow 4x4 like the Jimny, that bit of extra roll control makes daily driving safer and more predictable without ruining its off-road chops.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the sway-bars-&-links every 10,000–15,000 km or at each oil change. Look for perished or cracked rubber, ovalled link bushes, torn D-bushes, loose brackets, and any witness marks that suggest the bar has been shifting. A light clunk over small bumps, increased body roll, or vague steering are classic tells. If the links are bent, the bar’s finish is flaking with rust, or the bushes have gone soft, it’s time for fresh gear.

When replacing, do both links as a pair and renew the D-bushes at the same time. Set the vehicle on its wheels before final tightening so the bar isn’t preloaded at ride height. Use new nyloc nuts where specified and torque fasteners to the factory spec in the service manual. Rubber bushes are typically installed dry, many polyurethane kits want a smear of the supplied grease—follow the kit instructions. After a few hundred kilometres, re-check fasteners.

Keen off-roaders sometimes fit quick-disconnect links to free up articulation on the track, then reconnect for the trip home. If considering any removal or modification, check local road rules: for WOF or roadworthy in NZ and Australia, a missing or disabled sway bar originally fitted from factory can be a fail and may affect insurance.

• Common signs it’s due: clunks over corrugations, extra body roll, wandering at motorway speeds, visible bush cracking, or a WOF/roadworthy note for excessive movement.
• Good upgrades: quality rubber or polyurethane bushes, new link kits, and corrosion protection on the bar and brackets.

FAQs

Did the 1987 Suzuki Jimny come with front and rear sway-bars-&-links?
Most 1987 Jimnys (SJ413/Sierra/Samurai) were built with a front sway bar and links. Rear bars were not universal—some trims and markets had none. If unsure, a quick look under the rear chassis rails will confirm whether brackets and a bar are present.

What are the signs the sway-bars-&-links need replacing on a 1987 Jimny?
Tell-tales include clunking over small bumps, more lean in corners, vague steering, or a WOF/roadworthy advisory. Visually, cracked or squashed bushes, loose brackets, or a bent link are clear reasons to replace.

Is it okay to remove or disconnect the sway bar for off-road use in AU/NZ?
Many off-roaders disconnect temporarily on the trail to boost articulation, then reconnect for the drive home. Permanently removing or disabling a factory-fitted bar can lead to WOF/roadworthy failure and may affect insurance—check local regulations and keep it compliant for on-road use.