Adjusting the torsion bars

[999fff]

Hello, I have an explorer 98, 4 door and for two years I have had new leaf springs (about 6000 kilometers driven since then), raised by 4 centimeters at the factory. I would also like to raise the front axle accordingly. I have read some discussions about setting up torsion bars.
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Is it really that easy to just lift the front, the wheels off the ground and tighten the screws that hold the torsion bars? Alternatively, how to check that they are both set the same, should I take it according to the length of the screw turn or something else?
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Another thing is, I reckon I'll have to install longer shock absorbers by the amount that the front rises... so that there are no bumps? ... at the back, I extended the shock absorbers by the 4 centimeters of leaf spring lift.

 

[wollimann]

I would also like to raise the front axle accordingly.

With the original screw and knuckle you don't have the ability to get the 4 cm at the front too.
You need some knuckles with other index of the hexagon.

https://torchoffroad.com/cdn/shop/files/98R4D30-blk_fb9b23c6-0360-4d91-b098-96359cdda7eb_1100x1100.jpg?v=1718054102

MAXXCam RS 1"-2" Leveling Kit (SMX-MCR) :: SuspensionMAXX

suspensionmaxx.com

The disadvantage is, if you screw the torsion bars too high, the front upper control arms could touch the frame.
Front alignment is nesessary. With the torsion bars scewed up you have a negative camber which can not be compensated
by original setup.
Need other control arm bolts.

More Information for MOOG K100348

Sometimes a pain to get the old bolts out.

Alternatively, how to check that they are both set the same, should I take it according to the length of the screw turn or something else?

Measuring the lengh should be practicable. Ford recommend measuring the lower control arm high.
(only have German instructions)

 

[999fff]

I already put the eccentric screws of the upper arms last year, it was a struggle, but I managed it at home in the backyard ... you mean the measurement in the place, what is position "B" or "C" on the edge?

 

[999fff]

I think I could use this set too? .. that is if the sport has the same torsion bars and keys as the 4 door version

https://www.amazon.ca/GAsupply-1998-2013-1995-2006-Explorer-Adjustable/dp/B0CBS18JWF?th=1

 

[410Fortune]

Oh brother you guys maybe over thinking this. Before you go get torsion keys for lift or swap out t bars try this

Okay take a look at your drivers side torsion bar adjuster bolt. Any threads left?

Measure the height from the ground to fender lip on both sides and record your measurement. In the USA it’s usually around 29-31”
Make sure all 4 tires are at pressure and truck is on level ground

Raise the front so both tires off the ground
With 13mm and ratchet crank your drivers t bar adjuster Bolt all the way in tight.

Lower truck bounce your body weight on the front and back bumpers to cycle the suspension

How far did the fender lip raise on drivers side? Likely about half an inch.
Now adjust the passenger side t bar adjuster
Bolt until the truck sits level

 

[999fff]

Oh brother you guys maybe over thinking this. Before you go get torsion keys for lift or swap out t bars try this

Okay take a look at your drivers side torsion bar adjuster bolt. Any threads left?

Measure the height from the ground to fender lip on both sides and record your measurement. In the USA it’s usually around 29-31”
Make sure all 4 tires are at pressure and truck is on level ground

Raise the front so both tires off the ground
With 13mm and ratchet crank your drivers t bar adjuster Bolt all the way in tight.

Lower truck bounce your body weight on the front and back bumpers to cycle the suspension

How far did the fender lip raise on drivers side? Likely about half an inch.
Now adjust the passenger side t bar adjuster
Bolt until the truck sits level

I understand you. First, I'll sort out the things I need to finish. after that I'll get a lift torque wrench and I'll get back to you sometime in the future (maybe next year - I'm short on time and a lot to do .. )

Otherwise, there is about 1 cm of thread on the current torque wrenches, which I can turn up.
Furthermore... on the level, from the ground to the fender, I have 78 cm in front, and the bolts could be tightened even more, but I'd rather do a lift when I have the other torsion keys, I wouldn't like to go all the way with the factory ones right now.

So thanks for now, I won't do the lift yet, when I've bought the keys, I'll get back to the discussion.

Thank you Michal from the Czech Republic

 

[fast_dave]

@999fff

Hey Michal -

In addition to all the good advice that you have already got in this thread, I will add the following.

Check out this attached thread: Torsion Bar Adjusters (kevlar pad replacement?)

REASON: Your 26 year old Kevlar Pads probably need to be replaced!

Within the attached thread, look at the picture of the condition of forum member @donalds Kevlar Pads (Post #14).

Let us know about the condition of your pads (we LOVE pictures)

Hope that helps and good luck!

 

[410Fortune]

Good point! If the pads are worn she won’t sit right and it rides like crap… on the bump stops all day long

 

[fast_dave]

Michal would be definitely feeling those cobblestone city streets in Czech Republic