Torsion Bar replacement

[Scott Peele]

Looking for some info on aftermarket torsion bars. Who can recommend a set for an 04 2WD? Calmini, 4X4 parts, Sway-A-Way all offer them, with prices ranging from 180 at 4X4 parts with a 30% higher spring rate, to 240 at Calmini with a 20% higher spring rate. Anyone know of other manufacturers? What spring rate would be best? I have Bilstein 4600's on all 4 corners that are less than a year old; should I take that into consideration when thinking about spring rates?

 

[KChurch86]

The increased spring rates are really intended to help out if you add a heavy aftermarket bumper, winch, etc.

When I did my PML I also installed a set of the Sway-A-Way's from 4x4parts.com. I don't have any heavy accessories up front and honestly I don't feel like the ride is that much stiffer than it "should" be. I can't accurately say whether or not it's stiffer than stock, because when I bought my X the stock torsion bars were a little worn out.

 

[Scott Peele]

Thanks for the info! As I won't ever have need for a winch, the 20% should be fine. Should I expect improved handling over stock?

 

[Prime]

I also have the Sway-A-Way T-bars. The biggest thing I noticed was that it helps with body roll once you lift everything up. The ride is no harsher than stock.

When installing them it's important to realize that the stiffer spring rate means that the adjusters do not have to be that far down below the cross member. Factory spec calls for 40° angle on the adjusters when you lock the front end into place. Mine ended up at 20° and I was doing a full 3" SL. So if you're close to stock, that means your adjusters will start lower than that.

Which brings up another good point, the increased spring rate means that the bars don't have to twist as much to achieve the desired ride height. So in theory they'll last longer since they don't see as much initial twisting force.