Parts for your 1999 Mitsubishi Pajero-Sway bars & links

1999 Mitsubishi Pajero Sway Bars & Links

Relevant technical sources confirm that the 1999 Mitsubishi Pajero is fitted with front and rear anti-roll (sway) bars and associated links, so sway-bars-&-links are absolutely relevant to this model. The Mitsubishi Pajero V2/V3/V4 (second-generation) Workshop Manual for the 1997–1999 NL series details stabiliser bars and link service procedures in Group 33/34 Suspension. The Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for 1999 Pajero variants lists front and rear stabiliser bars, D-bushes, mounts and link assemblies. Well-known aftermarket catalogues for this generation (e.g., Whiteline and SuperPro) also publish part listings for sway bar bushes and link kits for 1991–1999 Pajero models. That all makes it clear the 1999 Pajero uses sway bars and links as standard equipment.

On a 1999 Pajero, the sway bar ties the left and right sides of the suspension together to reduce body roll in corners and when changing lanes. The links connect the bar to the control arm or axle, letting the bar twist as the vehicle leans. For a tall 4x4 like the Pajero, that extra roll control keeps the cabin flatter, steadies the steering and helps the tyres stay planted on-road, especially with a load or when towing.

As part of servicing, it pays to give the sway bars and links a quick once-over every 10,000–15,000 kilometres, or after rough off-road trips. Look for perished or cracked D-bushes on the chassis mounts, torn link bushes, sloppy ball-jointed links, missing washers, or shiny rub marks where the bar has been moving. Common signs it’s time for replacement include a dull clunk over speed humps, excess body roll, vague steering on the motorway, or a squeak from dry bushes.

Replacement is straightforward with basic spanners: support the vehicle safely, remove the links, drop the bar, swap the D-bushes, and refit. Always tighten fasteners at normal ride height so the bushes aren’t pre-loaded, and torque to the factory spec in the workshop manual. If the Pajero has a suspension lift, consider adjustable or extended links to keep the bar’s angle near horizontal, and uprated bushes (polyurethane is popular) for sharper response. A light smear of the correct grease on poly bushes helps prevent squeaks. Aftermarket bars exist, but on many NLs a fresh set of links and bushes brings back crisp, predictable behaviour without making the ride harsh.

Off-roaders sometimes disconnect the rear bar to gain articulation, but it should be reconnected before driving on-road. Running without a bar on public roads materially increases roll and can affect legality and insurance in Australia and New Zealand.

Does a 1999 Pajero have sway bars front and rear?

Yes. Factory documentation and parts catalogues show both ends are equipped. The front bar works with the independent front suspension, and the rear bar controls roll at the live axle. Together they steady the big wagon in everyday driving.

What are the tell-tale signs the sway bar links are worn?

Clunks over potholes, extra body roll in roundabouts, and a wandering feel at highway speeds are classic. A quick visual check often reveals torn link bushes or play in ball-jointed links. If in doubt, one side at a time can be lever-tested for movement.

Is it OK to disconnect the rear sway bar for off-roading?

Plenty of owners do it temporarily to boost articulation on rough tracks. Just reconnect it before hitting the bitumen. Driving on-road without the bar increases body roll and can compromise safety and compliance in AU/NZ.