Hello,
I had the same problem until I saw this post:
DocJohn
SolaraGuy Driver
Joined: 12 Jul 2004
Posts: 361
Location: Kentucky (out of NYC)
Posted: Fri Dec 17, 2004 10:15 am Post subject:
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cablemn wrote:
I agree that it is the sway bar that is squeeking but the lithium wont work well. You need a silicone based lube. The lube that comes with the trd bar is best because its sticky like glue and really can't squeeze out.
I installed my TRD RSB myself (on 9/1/04) using the silicone grease supplied with it and as soon as it got cold here it started to squeak EXACTLY as LunarMistGray has described at the top of this thread. The bottom line is that the silicone grease supplied with the TRD RSB sucks in cold weather applications. It is also interesting to note that my stock RSB bushings were not lubed with a silicone based grease but rather a white (probably lithium based) grease.
I recall reading elsewhere that Mobil 1 Synthetic Grease works great in this application. It has an operating range of -37ºC (-35ºF) to +232ºC (+450ºF). For more info see:
http://www.mobil.com/USA-English/Lubes/ ... Grease.asp
As soon a I get the chance, I'll re-lube my RSB bushings with this stuff and let you know how it works.
EDIT - 12/20/04:
I was able to re-lubed my TRD RSB bushings with Mobil 1 grease over the weekend. This morning it was 13ºF outside and there was absolutely NO squeaking from the bushings on my drive to work. What an improvement over original silicone grease. Problem solved!
Here's a tip... the silicone lube is a pain in the a$$ to remove from the bar and the bushings especially if its cold. I found that WD40 does a great job of removing the old silicone lube.
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2004 Solara SLE V6 with mods (sold 10/10/06) (see my website)
This has worked for me so far in all temps. If you re-grease, use this or similar product.
Jeff Porter