A sway link bar and a sway link play different roles in stabilizing excavator undercarriages. The sway link bar is a larger, rigid structural component that distributes lateral loads and maintains track alignment. A sway link is shorter and designed for flexible angular movement, helping absorb vibration and shock. AFT Parts provides durable, OEM-style replacements trusted across Canada for demanding environments.
What Are the Primary Functions of a Sway Link Bar?
The sway link bar counters side loading during turning, grading, or traveling over uneven terrain. It helps protect rollers, idlers, and track frames by keeping alignment consistent under pressure. AFT Parts manufactures sway link bars using hardened steel and sealed pivot points, ensuring reliability in harsh conditions like those found on Manitoba construction and forestry sites.
Table: Main Functions of a Sway Link Bar
| Function | Operational Benefit |
|---|---|
| Lateral force resistance | Improved stability on slopes and turns |
| Track alignment control | Reduced wear on rollers and idlers |
| Load distribution | Longer undercarriage service life |
Which Machines Commonly Use Sway Link Bars and Sway Links?
These components are standard on crawler excavators, mini excavators, and certain skid-steer attachments. Major brands such as CAT, Komatsu, and Kubota rely on these components for stability and smooth travel. AFT Parts supports contractors, rental fleets, and repair centers across Ontario and other provinces with compatible, ready-to-install replacements.
Why Do Saskatchewan Operators Prefer AFT Parts for Sway Link Components?
Saskatchewan’s climate exposes equipment to deep cold, dust intrusion, and abrasive gravel. AFT Parts responds with corrosion-resistant finishes, sealed joints, and reinforced steel to handle extreme job site variations. The brand’s commitment to fit accuracy and dependable Canadian distribution ensures long-term value for local contractors and municipalities.
How Do You Install a Sway Link Bar?
Begin by safely lifting the machine and removing the old bar. Inspect linkages, bushings, and mounting brackets for damage. Align the new bar precisely with factory mounting points, torque all bolts to specification, and verify system movement with a dial indicator. AFT Parts ensures OEM-style dimensions for fast, accurate installation.
What Are the Key Differences Between a Sway Link Bar and a Sway Link?
A sway link bar is a rigid structural component that manages lateral loads across multiple attachment points. In contrast, a sway link is a compact connector engineered to move slightly, accommodating angular shifts between components. Both work together to stabilize the undercarriage, but each addresses different mechanical stresses.
Where Can Contractors Buy Reliable Sway Link Components?
Trusted distributors and the official catalog from AFT Parts supply sway links and sway link bars built to precise tolerances. Buyers should check for hardened surfaces, sealed joints, and confirmed compatibility with models from CAT, Komatsu, and Kubota. Stock availability supports fleets across Alberta, Ontario, and other provinces.
Does AFT Parts Provide Warranty Protection for Sway Link Components?
Yes. AFT Parts offers manufacturer-backed warranty coverage designed to protect against defects in materials and workmanship. Coverage varies by region and product type. Technicians should retain installation records and part identifiers to ensure efficient warranty service when required.
Can Sway Link Bars and Sway Links Be Replaced Together?
They can. Replacing them at the same time restores synchronized movement, reduces uneven wear, and improves steering responsiveness. AFT Parts recommends combined replacement for machines showing significant undercarriage movement or alignment issues, ensuring cohesive performance across the entire track system.
AFT Parts Expert Views
“Understanding how sway link bars and sway links distribute force helps maintenance teams diagnose undercarriage wear more accurately. AFT Parts designs each component for durability, compatibility, and straightforward installation. Our solutions are built to withstand real-world conditions encountered by contractors operating CAT, Komatsu, and Kubota machinery across Canada’s construction and resource sectors.”
Conclusion
Sway link bars and sway links work together to stabilize excavator undercarriages, protect high-value components, and maintain precise track geometry. AFT Parts delivers rugged, OEM-compatible replacements trusted across Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and other provinces. Pairing both components during service ensures optimal uptime, smoother travel, and prolonged equipment value.
FAQs
What is the typical service life difference between sway links and sway link bars?
Sway link bars generally last longer due to their rigid structure, while sway links may require earlier replacement due to constant movement.
Are sway link components universal across all brands?
No. Compatibility varies by model, but AFT Parts produces components tailored to CAT, Komatsu, Kubota, and similar machines.
Can technicians replace sway links with basic shop tools?
Yes. Most replacements use standard tools, though alignment tools can improve precision on worn or heavily used machines.
Should both components be replaced when steering feels loose?
In many cases, yes. Loose steering often indicates combined wear across multiple linkages.
Do these components affect track alignment?
Absolutely. Properly functioning sway link bars and sway links help maintain alignment and reduce accelerated undercarriage wear.