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Reducing Factory Rake
Designed to reduce factory rake and level out a truck’s stance, installing a torsion bar leveling kit is a popular upgrade. Discover how using the right tool makes the repair easier.
Using a Torsion Bar Load Tool
Using a torsion bar load tool such as MOOG® part T40016 can simplify the installation. The tool features a notch on the top of the index where it goes on the rear cross member and has a nub where it fits into the dimple on the key.
Before starting, take time to familiarize yourself with the components you’ll be working with:
- Torsion bar
- Torsion bar key
- Adjusting bolt
- Adjusting lock nut
How to Remove the Torsion Bar Key
Step 1
Measure from the lock nut to the end of the bolt. This measurement will be needed to set it back after the key and bar is removed.
Step 2
Screw in the C-clamp torsion bar removal tool by hand. Make sure the index marks are lined up properly so you don’t have to worry about them slipping off.
Step 3
Relieve the tension that is on the torsion key with an impact gun. It is important to unload the front suspension prior to the release of the torsion bar. The lock nut and adjusting screw should both be loose.
Step 4
Remove the adjusting screw and lock nut. If the screw is rusted in place, use some penetrating oil or lubricant to aid in removal.
Step 5
Use an impact gun to slowly relieve the tension on the torsion key removal tool.
Step 6
With the tension off the torsion key removal tool, push out the torsion bar toward the front of the vehicle. Once the key drops out, you can compare the keys to ensure that you’re installing an oversized one. If the key is rusted in place, use an air hammer to the back of the torsion bar to loosen it from the key.
Step 7
Remove the torsion key. Grab the torsion bar and slide it forward until the key loosens and you’re able to remove it. Hold the key while doing this. Set the key aside.
How to Remove the Torsion Bar Key
Step 1
Slide the torsion bar back into place.
Step 2
Reattach the torsion key and slide it into place keeping it at the same angle that it was originally in.
Step 3
Get the key in place by using the torsion key installation and removal tool. Put the tool on the key, getting the index point in place. Screw the tool in by hand and tighten it with an impact gun.
Step 4
Make sure there is enough clearance to slide the lock nut into place; adjust it until you can get the nut into place.
Step 5
Screw in the adjusting bolt by hand to avoid cross threading and torque it with the impact gun.
Step 6
Screw in the adjusting bolt by hand to avoid cross threading and torque it with the impact gun.
Step 7
Measure the distance from the lock nut to the end of the bolt to make sure it matches the measurement that you took in step 1 of the removing the torsion bar key procedure.
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The content in this article is for informational purposes only. You should consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have questions relating to any of the topics covered herein. Tenneco will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.