Torsion Bar Tools
One of the problems with driving a vehicle that utilizes torsion bar suspension for its main weight bearing spring is that it actually needs to be manually adjusted for height. Because of this, torsion bar tools are an absolute necessity for making these adjustments. In order to better understand the use of torsion bar tools, it is first important to have a solid knowledge of torsion bar suspension.
Understanding Torsion Bar Suspension
There are other names by which torsion bar suspension is called, such as torsion spring suspension or even torsion beam suspension. However, those terms are inaccurate and don’t actually refer to the fact that the torsion bar is actually the key weight bearing mechanism. A long bar attached to the chassis of the vehicle has a lever at one end that is mounted to a bar that is perpendicular to it. This assembly is attached to either a spindle or axle and a suspension arm. When there is vertical motion, the bar twists around on an axis which causes resistance in the torsion bar. The rate of spring is actually determined by the diameter and length of the bar. In order to get the correct amount of ‘spring,’ torsion bar tools are needed to adjust the perpendicular lever.
Types of Vehicles Using Torsion Bar Suspension
Currently, heavy military vehicles like armored tanks use torsion bar suspension as do trucks and SUVs manufactured by Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Mazda, GM, Dodge and Ford. Each vehicle will require specific torsion bar tools that work with the diameter of the torsion bar in that particular vehicle. For example, the K-35 series trucks manufactured by General Motors have heavy duty chassis that necessitate heavy duty torsion bar tools that are made to handle a larger torsion bar. This particular torsion bar tool will also work on any GMC and Chevy 1/2 to 3/4 and/or 1 ton Pickups newer than 1988. It will also work on S-15 Jimmy’s, S-10 Blazers, 4 Wheel Drive pickups and Oldsmobile Bravadas models later than 1991.
After Market Torsion Bar Tools
There are a number of places to buy aftermarket torsion bar tools, but most often you will have a broader selection by looking online. Your local auto parts store may or may not have the tools you need and if they are available, they are inclined to be more expensive as well. When looking for torsion bar tools for your vehicle, you will need to know the year, make and model and it would also be helpful to know the exact specifications of the torsion bar in terms of size and length. If you are not sure how to adjust the bar for a lighter or heavier load, there are also sites online that can walk you through the process. Online guides and manuals can easily be found, many of which may even be provided by the vendor where you buy your torsion bar tools.
Before ordering aftermarket torsion bar tools, it is vital to know that you are ordering the right tools for your vehicle. Once you know exactly what you are looking for, shop around a bit. There are several companies that manufacture these tools so you will not necessarily need to get the tools from an authorized distributor carrying OEM parts for your vehicle. In fact, you might even save a good bit of money by purchasing aftermarket tools. Find a vendor that offers free shipping and you will save even more money. The key is knowing which torsion bar tools you need prior to submitting the order.
