Just verifying this is a split that has developed, and not an OEM feature. Thoughts? Need to replace it soon?

 

I'd replace it. that is not an OEM feature. get some new ones.

 

Would you recommend a certain brand? Stick with OEM? I know that polyurethane is stiffer, but would it be a good choice for this application?

 

It's all up to how much you wanna spend. I just went to the local parts store and bought a set. I believe they were $15 each. you can get the high end one's if your budget allows. I personally just buy a mid-grade part and go from there. if it doesn't last then I upgrade next time. my .02

 

Advance auto has decent ones, that's where I get mine

 

Isn't there a special grease you lube them with when you install them, or is that the poly ones?

 

I had the same split in the bushing and was getting a banging noise going over bumps. I went with Moog Part #K80337 (not sure if same for you) and they were 36 bucks each on Amazon , comes with a grease nipple, and I put the red grease in mine.

To save yourself time on removal/installation:

Spray bolts with PB blaster and let sit
use grinder and cut old link right in middle and when you take bolts off the old parts just fall out

Bolt new link onto sway bar first, jack truck up and let a-arm extend down. Then have a buddy with pry bar slightly pry up on sway bar and bottom end of link should pop right into the a-arm.

 

So you have to replace the entire link? You can't just replace the rubber bushings?

 

I would imagine you can, I did not look at buying just the bushings.

On the bottom of the link there is a ball joint, which is the purpose of the grease nipple. I am suspecting that was the source of my banging noise due to the amount of play. But I was not sure so I bought the whole assembly.