K-frame alignment?

Sounds to me like you need to make sure that the LCA pivot and bushing are in good condition. If the pivot tube has broken loose in the K then the LCA can move around, so the torsion bar would slide out but the force from installing the torsion bar could push the LCA out of alignment, causing binding. If nothing else you need to rule it out.

And like @RustyRatRod suggested, the elephant ears may have been there to solve a K frame/engine mount related issue. Could have been the cheapest fix for a larger problem.

You do what you like, but I wouldn’t be driving that car on public roads until I had an explanation and/or solution. The amount of issues you’ve had suggests something significant is wrong, and not the kind of thing you want to find going down the road at speed.
S'kinda what I was thAnkin. lol