Just for my curiousity, how does one determine an end link is bad if it is not broken in two? Is there slop when pushing on the swaybar? What are the symptoms when driving?

Look for play in the bushings. I would just go ahead and replace it with a solid aftermarket one if possible, or at least some new ones.

If the bushings are trashed you'll probably be able to tell if you get under the car and can see movement in them just by moving the bar with your hand. I don't know if there's a specific procedure for doing it. My front links seemed fine when I took them out a few weeks ago with 166k miles.

 

The heavy duty aftermarket links with stiffer bushings aren't any more than a new set from a dealer. My Kartboy links were $180 for all four, whereas wholesale on a rear link is $58, and if you go to the dealer it will be closer to $80.