No ill effects? Reeaally? It felt like I was commanding a U-boat in rough seas. Take them both off and go for a spin. As far as wandering and taking the wheel from you, then no. But if you aren't paying attention it will feel like the body is not attached to the frame. Quick lane changes at speed can become hairy. This may may adding to his problem, but I also suggested pan hard bar. In all likelihood, it is a combination of a few worn parts.

 

Don't forget bad shocks and worn out springs

My 98 handles no different with the bars off the when they were on, vehicle is a top heavy brick and sways some either way, unless he has an end link broke off doubt they are causing his issue, probly like the rest of us he bought a rig that was poorly maintained with a crap load of worn out parts

 

Mine had all 4 end link bushings gone. I've never seen that before but where the end link connects to the sway bar there were bolts just loosely sitting with no rubber around them.