Torsion Bar Installation Position Question

[JoesEdge]

This might be a dumb question, but the factory service manual doesn't really doesn't go too much into detail.

The manual states to insert the torsion bar through the hex in the cross member and then into the hex in the control arm. Once inserted, then the retaining clips are installed making sure the clip is in the groove.

The manual doesn't really go into the details of the position of the torsion bar, in other words:

• Once the torsion bar is inserted, should it be moved back (towards the rear of the car) against the retaining clip? While at the same time, making sure the control arm is as far forward (towards the front of the car) as possible when using poly lower control arm bushings.
• Or, should I just shove them in as far as it goes, install the retaining ring, tighten up the torsion bar bolt and call it a day?

I was curious, because I wondered whether or not the torsion bar would eventually slide backwards against the retaining clip on it's own, which could possibly pull the lower control arm backwards.

Thanks!

 

[jos51700]

Drag force on the wheel, pivoting through the strut rod out the front of the lca, is what seats the lca forward, and prevents loading the torsion bar rearward, iirc.

I think that's why I try not to stab the brakes at high speed in reverse.

 

[67Dart273]

I don't believe it matters, one way or t'other. I like them in far enough you are sure the clips are seated

 

[JoesEdge]

Ok, thanks guys! I just wanted to make sure it wasn't nothing to worry about.

 

[krazykuda]

Don't get all "twisted up" about it...

As long as you get all the pieces to fit together, you should be fine...

 

[RedFish]

Considering the twist/load on the hex sockets, Its difficult to imagine a lower arm and torsion bar traveling rearward but... Some have had to install adjustable strut rods and use that adjustment to draw the lower arms forward. That puts their plastic lower arm bushing in a bias wear condition. Some aftermarket parts just make no sense to me. Good luck with yours

 

[JoesEdge]

Considering the twist/load on the hex sockets, Its difficult to imagine a lower arm and torsion bar traveling rearward but... Some have had to install adjustable strut rods and use that adjustment to draw the lower arms forward. That puts their plastic lower arm bushing in a bias wear condition. Some aftermarket parts just make no sense to me. Good luck with yours

Yes, I considered the load/twist as well. I figured that would be enough load/pressure to almost "lock" the torsion bar in place, but I also thought that anything is possible with enough force.

Thanks!

 

[ScampMike]

I recall having been given the suggestion/advice that the bars have a line on the end and that that line should be vertical... don't know how true it is, but this is what I did.