torsion bar replacement
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From: waterloo, iowa
torsion bar replacement
I've seen that they made different "Grade" torsion bars some being stiffer than other. Would changing the torsion bars on my 97 f-150 ext cab 4x4 to a stiffer grade provide any more lift in addition to re indexing them?
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From: Olathe, KS
Lots of discussion about this over on the f150 forum. fair amount here as well. The main problem is that ford will not give the spring rates of the bars. So... It is difficult to impossible to know what is stiffer and by how much. Lifting should be viewed seperately from carrying weight. (spring rate required). To adjust the hieght is a function of indexing the bars. If adding or removing weight, then the rate of the bar should be changed.
Caution changing axle angle has some side effects.
Caution changing axle angle has some side effects.
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Elder User
Joined: Sep 2007
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From: waterloo, iowa
yeah i think it was on a chevy forum where is saw that they were rated with different letters. So the ford bars don't say on them what they are rated for?
Yes, but in theory if you could get a stiffer spring and use the key to index it, it would be a higher lift than the stock bar indexed the same, right?
Originally Posted by tim.moman
Lifting should be viewed seperately from carrying weight. (spring rate required). To adjust the hieght is a function of indexing the bars. If adding or removing weight, then the rate of the bar should be changed.
Caution changing axle angle has some side effects.
Caution changing axle angle has some side effects.
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Joined: Aug 2006
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From: Olathe, KS
Yes they do chart the spring rates of their torsion bars. I also heard rumors from the desert that they hold up better, and will bolt into the F150??? The down side is we can't get the current rates as a starting point. Ford will only look up what is coded on the vehicle and offer a replacement. I have a push bar and wanting to add a winch, so looked into stepping up for the added weight.
Your theory is sound as stated, but unless you are at the edge of adjustment and need that very small tweek, The increased spring rate if not needed will be more detrimental than the benefit. An aftermarket indexed key will gain the adjustment you might need. Strangley, I had to go a key just to get the axles level. But this truck has seen some pounding, so the bars may be going. The rear leafs were drooped about 2 inches when I changed them.
Your theory is sound as stated, but unless you are at the edge of adjustment and need that very small tweek, The increased spring rate if not needed will be more detrimental than the benefit. An aftermarket indexed key will gain the adjustment you might need. Strangley, I had to go a key just to get the axles level. But this truck has seen some pounding, so the bars may be going. The rear leafs were drooped about 2 inches when I changed them.
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From: Olathe, KS
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