The standard torsion beam rear axle on the xB provides decent handling while saving costs. However it can easily be improved upon by adding a rear sway (or "anti-sway", if your prefer) bar. I got my TRD (Toyota Racing Development) rear sway bar from TRD Sparks as they have the best price. The TRD sway bar is designed to work in conjunction with the stock front sway bar.
(This mod took place on March 20 2012.)
First step is to give myself a bit more room under the rear of the car. I did this using wooden ramps.
Per the instructions the next step is to hang the bar from the torsion beam. The instructions suggested bungie cords but I used a couple of straps.
The initial design of the rear sway in 2008 bolted directly to the lower suspension arms using the lower shock mounting bolts, however these bars failed in service. The redesign uses ball-end links. Here the right side link is shown. The blue plastic protective covers are removed prior to installation. The left side is similar but opposite, and has orange protective covers to help prevent mistakes.
This picture shows the right side ball link connected. Also shown is one of the two mount points that secure the sway bar to the torsion beam.
Final tightening, drive off the ramps, and it's done.
Body roll is reduced and the car now feels more balanced during cornering. Worth it!
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