While searching for a noise in my front end, I found that my track bar bracket is broken. The bracket I am refering to is on the passernger side and appers to be welded to the lower axle shackle (?) So is this piece actually welded or something that can be removed (and therefore replaced)? If not can I just weld it in place? My truck has a ~2" leveling kit on the front, should I have got an adjustable track bar to relieve some stress?

On a side note how bad is it to be driving without the track bar? I have to make a 400 mile trip in the near future and this will probably get fixed after that.

 

I would just weld it back on the axle and it would be a good ideal to get a adjustable track bar

 

It's still attached to both the track bar and the shackle, it cracked in the middle and welding with it still attached could prove difficult, that's why I was wondering if the bracket on the passenger side is removable.

 

Well, if there's no other opinions on the matter, I'll keep drivin without it 'til I get to a welder and can get it fixed.

 

Lower axle shackle? The spring perch? Take your stock one off, weld that bracket back into place accordingly, buy this one and install it: Zone Ford Accessories

Edit: I'd assume the truck would handle like **** w/o a trackbar.

 

i installed the same zone adjustable track bar that mechelement mentioned after installing my 2.5 lift. works great.

 

Another vote for get it welded up (a good welder can do it no prob) and adjustable track bar.

 

Will this bar work too? I'd like to not have to upgrade when I go to a 6 or 8 inch lift.
https://www.trucktoyzstore.com/realm...p?idproduct=72

 

Also, can someone tell me why our trucks have track bars at all? Don't the 3" leaf springs provide enough lateral movement prevention?

 

to keep tha axle from shifting. think about how much force is on the front end while cornering. it not only keeps it from shifting but keeps the steering geometry from changing due to axle movement.

 

Keep in mind that the motor under your hood weighs almost 1000lb without fluids in it. That's a lot of weight hanging over the axle, and a lot of weight to shift around while driving. The track bar helps keeps things in line.

 

It's fixed!

Welded the bracket back together and braced across the top in two places. Installed the new adjustable track bar from ICON and a new steering stabilizer.

Pics just because:









I did throw a coat of paint on the bracket (among other things) but not much holds up to the salt

 

Did that fix your noise you were looking for?

 

Yes it did, also my handling has improved.

 

Glad you got your problem resolved, and thanks for the pic's.