Torsion Bar lift for IFS

[bachelor25]

Well after much research and reading and probably too many questions, I finally got the information I was looking for in regards to lift options for my Explorer. So I grabbed my trusty can of penetrating spray and the neighbour's trolley jack and proceeded to try my mechanical luck. Well sure enough the adjuster bolts for the torsion bars are right there for easy access. I soaked them with the bolt freeing junk and laid into them with a socket wrench.

Well I'll be damned!! 2 honest inches of lift for the front end! I measured before and after on the same level surface (wheel lip to highest point of fender well) and improved from 11.25 to 13.25 inches! I took her out for a short jaunt to see how they would settle and at this point it looks like they've only backed down to 13 inches. Now it looks like some stupid pimp vehicle, with the front sitting 2-3 inches higher than the rear (rear leaves are already sagged a bit), but off to T&S Suspension in Langley for re-arched rear leafs and add-a-leaf to level her off. With an alignment I'm told the rear will cost me $300, taxes in ($225 for the leaf work, $35 for alignment + taxes). CDN $$ for all you US readers. ($300CDN = $200US)

Everything said, I feel much better knowing that I've got 2 more inches of clearance, and slightly improved approach and departure angles. Plus the coolness factor is very high. (Not many raised Explorers, especially late models, out there)

Thanks for everyone's input, suggestions, and concerns!! If anyone wants a run-through please email me, I'll explain how it's done. It's really very easy and anyone with limited tools and experience should have no problems.

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Cheers,

Andrew B.
1996 Ford Explorer 4x4 (slightly modified)
BC, Canada

 

[bubba]

Please let us know how the ride quality has changed, once you get the rear springs installed and can you post a photo of the rig, once it's done.

 

[bachelor25]

Well rear leafs were done on Saturday, and the truck looks great! Got 2.5" of lift from the reworked leafs, but they should settle down to between 2" to 2.25" total lift. The front torsion-bars had to be backed down a 1/2" due to cv-joint angles. So finished height is 1.5" front, 2" rear.

The ride is actually much improved. The suspension is firmer and feels more controlled and solid. (No more floaty yacht-like feeling) Not harsh at all, but a bit bouncy sometimes as the stock shocks are working harder now with the firmer suspension. A new set of good shocks will make the ride perfect! Pics maybe in a couple weeks??

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Cheers,

Andrew B.
1996 Ford Explorer 4x4 (slightly modified)
BC, Canada

 

[tiessen]

Hey there. What's the scoop with cranking up torsion bars. What are the implications, if any? Does it alter compression or droop (it must) and what are the longterm affects, ie: CV joints etc? Andrew this is great news for the post 94 Exploders!

 

[JASONESQUIVEL]

Great!!! let me in on the procedure for the front.

Did you get the rear re-packed, or did you add-a-leaf? Is so, What kind?

I have a 1998 4x4 is the suspension the same?

Jason

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1998 4x4 4.0L SHOC

 

[Keith]

Rick I think we should get the people that have done the torsion bar lift and have them write up a little procedure to help eveyone else if they would be willing to. Something that tells the products and tools that are needed.

 

[CSimpson]

I'm sure I'm not the only one stoked on the prospect of getting 1.5" on a '95 or newer Explorer. If you've got a procedure written out, I'd appreciate it if you could email it to me. Thanks alot!!

Craig Simpson
craigsim@ix.netcom.com

 

[thump96@aol.com]

What size tires are you able to run now? I have a 98 awd with 16" wheels, I am going to go along the same route as you. So any help you can offer will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Ryan

 

[bachelor25]

I'll talk to Rick and see if I can submit a procedure run-through for all you late model owners.

And for the rest of you begging for pictures, I'll work on getting those done next week as well! Patience Daniel-san! Dead Link Removed

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Cheers,

Andrew B.
1996 Ford Explorer 4x4 (slightly modified)
BC, Canada

 

[Paul Gagnon]

Don't forget that cranking up the torsion bars may reduce wheel travel.

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Paul Gagnon
Dead Link Removed

 

[ExplorGM]

For more info on the "torsion twist" check out "General Explorations" (this message board) and then go to the thread, "Why no late model lifts?" started by Keith. I've listed prices, part numbers and the Haynes manual that describes the torsion procedure. Its a piece of cake!

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RickG
95 Explorer Sport Expedition

 

[bachelor25]

Here's some answers to earlier posts, I'm playing catch-up.

Tiessen - I don't know about compression or droop until this weekend when I go test the new setup. I hear that wheel travel is limited by cranking the torsion bars up. A shop suggested putting in smaller bump stops to compensate. Will let you know. Suspension shop also said CV joint angle is fine up to 2" of lift. I played it safe at 1.5"

Jason - The rear leafs were re-arched and an add-a-leaf helper was added, plus teflon pads. Suspension shop just did it custom from leafs in stock. ($230 cash for everything - CDN $$)

Ryan - I've run both 30x9.5 and 31x10.5 A/T tires since new, the latter for the past 8 months, with the stock suspension. Now with the added lift the 31's look even better, and have much more room to move! The slight rub in the rear during full compression should be all but eliminated now! I could go with a 32 or even a 33x9.5 now probably, but I would be losing wheel travel to gain clearance. The 31's are still brand new, so I'll wait till they are worn out before I go any taller.

RickG - Your part information is great, but I don't know if it's necessary. My Explorer came stock with the "B" rated torsion bars, and I required nothing but a can of Liquid Wrench, a jack, and a socket wrench. I'm going to ask Rick about submitting the procedure to the "Explorer Tips" section, and would love to include your input. Let me know through direct email, we can co-author a procedure and comments post if you like.


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Cheers,

Andrew B.
1996 Ford Explorer 4x4 (slightly modified)
BC, Canada