There are a variety of upgrades that are well worth making to your 4×4, many of which we stock right here at 4×4 Works.
Torsion bars are one such improvement we’d recommend. With just a decade of history behind their more modern-day design, torsion bars have quickly become upgrade essentials. Here we explain why and how fitting torsion bars in your 4×4 could make a whole lot of difference to the way your vehicle rides and handles.
What are torsion bars?
Let’s begin with the basics; a torsion bar is a suspension system that’s regularly used in many cars, vans and overland trucks. Whilst every suspension system of course has a vital role to play when supporting the weight of the vehicle and absorbing the impact sustained via the motion of the vehicle both on and off-road, the spring-like function of a torsion bar delivers a lift like no other.
Torsion bars are unique in that they offer some level of height adjustment when lifting a vehicle, which leaf springs or coil springs do not.
How long have torsion bars been used?
Despite their space efficient, effective and easily adjustable design, modern-day torsion bars have only been used for the past 10 years or so. Although as torsion bar upgraders will tell you it is a significant step up from the traditionally used IFS front coil over units.
This isn’t the first time torsion bars have become the go-to suspension system however as WikiMotors details:
“Torsion bar suspension systems were once relatively common in passenger vehicles, but today are used primarily for the suspension systems of trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUVs). Some notable automobiles that used this type of suspension were the original Volkswagen Beetle, Porsche 356, Porsche 911 models that utilized an air-cooled engine, and much of the Chrysler lineup of cars from the late 1950s through the late 1980s.”
Why is upgrading to torsion bars beneficial?
When compared with leaf spring and coil spring systems, torsion bars unlock many advantages. Their streamlined design – consisting of a narrow, steel tube fixed to the vehicle’s wishbone – means they are space-saving; great news if you need to access the drive axles and other suspension components.
The use of torsion bars also makes your driving experience customisable, with drivers able to adjust their height to suit their own unique requirements. Your ride can be made firmer or smoother as a result. Thanks to their adjustable nature, your suspension will last much longer too. The ride is able to be heightened – as wear and tear take its toll – to actively extend their service life.
Maintaining the correct ride height for your vehicle will have a positive impact on the lifespan of other vital components, including your 4×4 tyres. Torsion bars are relatively inexpensive 4×4 upgrades that can make a big difference.
How can I install, remove or adjust my torsion bars?
Another plus point of upgrading to torsion bars is their easy adjustment. The system can also be installed and removed just as simply.
Removing your torsion bars is as easy as checking your ride height, raising the vehicle, and loosening and removing the adjusting bolts that hold the torsion bar and actuator in place. With proper alignment, installation can be completed in a few simple steps too. Lubrication is required for both the removal and installation of torsion bars.
To adjust your torsion bars, use the anchor arm to increase or decrease the ride height, trimming the vehicle from side to side if necessary.
For full details and instructions on the removal, installation and adjustment processes, please read our handy guide. You can also shop our torsion bars here.
Image: CHOKCHAI POOMICHAIYA / Shutterstock.com
