Anyone ever seen a sway bar break like this?

I was installing some new bushings today and I noticed this.

http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w265/xstoyz/broken%20sway%20bar/Image009.jpg

http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w265/xstoyz/broken%20sway%20bar/Image010.jpg

Look how the end of the sway bar split. What could have caused this?

What would you recommend to fix it? Could it just be welded? I really hate to spend any more $ buying a new one. I am looking locally for a new one but havent had any luck yet.

I would buy a new bar. It might be cheaper than having it repaired.

If you lived nearby I would give you a deal on a mint used stocker. I have 3 -
one from a '93 Z28, one from a '94 Formula, and one from a '95 Z28.

Should be able to find one pretty cheap locally.

Tom

Lol, yeah RI is a little far away from CA. :lol:

I'm no scientist but my guess is that it was caused by force acting on a sway bar weakened by old age and corrosion.
Hit the junkyard, they should have plenty more. Or spend what it takes for an aftermarket bar, it's well worth it.

I work at a tranny shop, and take sway bar links off all the time to pop the balljoint. I see that same thing on i'd say 1/3 of gm cars, must be a weak point. But i would never weld a sway bar, would think you'd just be making another weak point, just replace it.