Attempted TT & shackle lift

[Lone_Wolf]

So tried last night after work to to do a TT lift and shackles...

1st issue:
One side of the torsion bolts was almost all the way screwed in, I maybe got a 1 and half turns before it stopped..

2nd issue:
The shackle bolts just would't come out....


So in the end I measured what lift I got in the front and it went from 5 1/4 inches from the top of the tire, to 6 1/4. And I hosed the shackle bolts down with PB blaster for another try tonight.

Couple of questions,

Should I be concerned that the torsion bolt is all the way screwed down? Does this mean the torsion bar is shot, or did some previous owner try a TT?

Do I need a longer bolt? If so is there anyway of telling what kind of bolt it is without taking it out? (so i can pick one up in the way home today)

Any tips on the shackles bolts?


thanks so much everyone this board has already been such a help!

 

[crankyjew]

longer torsion bar bolts can be found here http://www.zabteck.com/bolts.htm

my shackle bolts gave me a helluva time as well. I ended up basically having to torch them out.

 

[2TimingTom]

You may want to buy a new bushing (or 2) for the leaf spring. Like you, one of my bolts didn't come out. I cut off the ends and then torched the rubber bushing to get it to come out and then used an air chisel to drive the outer metal sleeve out.

 

[Lone_Wolf]

You may want to buy a new bushing (or 2) for the leaf spring. Like you, one of my bolts didn't come out. I cut off the ends and then torched the rubber bushing to get it to come out and then used an air chisel to drive the outer metal sleeve out.

Any idea where to get those?

 

[swshawaii]

Stock torsion bolts are M12 x 1.75 x 63.5 mm. Use Grade 8 or higher hardened steel as these are under immense pressure. Even with the suspension unloaded with the tires off the ground, removal can be difficult due to the overused blue factory Loctite. If so, briefly heat the bolt heads prior to loosening. "Dog pointing" the bolt tips is a good idea to prevent slipping and for them to seat properly in the keys. Here's a great thread that may interest you.

Bolts For Torsion Bar
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1693195&postcount=56

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=153699

 

[2TimingTom]

Any idea where to get those?

Got mine from a shop that does lots of axle and spring work.

 

[Lone_Wolf]

Stock torsion bolts are M12 x 1.75 x 63.5 mm. Use Grade 8 or higher hardened steel as these are under immense pressure. Even with the suspension unloaded with the tires off the ground, removal can be difficult due to the overused blue factory Loctite. If so, briefly heat the bolt heads prior to loosening. "Dog pointing" the bolt tips is a good idea to prevent slipping and for them to seat properly in the keys. Here's a great thread that may interest you.

Bolts For Torsion Bar
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1693195&postcount=56

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=153699

what is dog pointing?

Should I use thread locker on the bolts?

 

[swshawaii]

The torsion keys have a recessed "dimple" the rounded bolt tip sits in to prevent slipping.
https://www.google.com/search?q=for...bm=isch&q=ford+sport+trac+torsion+key&imgrc=_

Modifying the key is NOT necessary for lifting, this was done for a key flip and lowering.
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1293312&postcount=8

 

[Lone_Wolf]

The torsion keys have a recessed "dimple" the rounded bolt tip sits in to prevent slipping.
https://www.google.com/search?q=for...bm=isch&q=ford+sport+trac+torsion+key&imgrc=_

Modifying the key is NOT necessary for lifting, this was done for a key flip and lowering.
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1293312&postcount=8

Gotcha, so dog tip them with a grinder? What the last 1/4 in?

 

[swshawaii]

See first link in post #5 . Better yet, copy your stock bolts. Grinder or hungry file works, and yes DO use Loctite.

 

[Lone_Wolf]

See first link in post #5 . Better yet, copy your stock bolts. Grinder or hungry file works, and yes DO use Loctite.

thanks man...totally missed that lol