Question about replacing torsion bars.

[cooper30]

I've spent the afternoon searching and reading old threads about this, however I'd like some current verification if possible.

The AHC was removed on the LX470 I recently bought and replaced with a Strutmaster kit. The torsion bars are original, and I'd like to replace them.

If I get a set of OME torsion bars, is there anything else I'll need, or will they go right in?

Thank you for your time.

 

[Ok29445]

They should "go right in" if you order the correct part for your year. I found used Land Cruiser TB's and they bolted right in to my LX470. The only difference was thicker diameter on the LC ones. My ride height is stock as a Land Cruiser now. You may get a tad more lift on your OME TB's and a firmer ride.

 

[cooper30]

Thanks for your reply!!!

 

[sonofshin]

If its just T-bars you are looking to replace, you might look at stock lc bars. Im not sure what type of result you will end up with, just putting ome bars in there without the rest of the ome suspension.

 

[cooper30]

I thought about a set of lc bars, and if I can find a used set locally I would get them. So far, I've found that a set of ome ones were the cheapest.

 

[cooper30]

Anyone have thoughts on ARB torsion bars??

 

[Ok29445]

I found a set of used ones on ebay that came off a 2002 LC that was totaled by flood water. I knew the part would be good even though they were used. They fit perfectly in place of the slimmer LX TB's. The splined ends were the same size, just the diameter of the bar was thicker on the LC version. Think I paid about $150 for the set of used LC TB's.

 

[cooper30]

Thanks!!!!

 

[cooper30]

Update: Based on what you guys told me, I decided to look for a set of Land Cruiser torsion bars. I finally found a set tonight.

Thanks for your help.

 

[SALTY METHODS]

I bought OME torsion bars. And without replacing my front bumper with an aftermarket it was a waste of money. Only upgrade to OME if you add weight to your front end.

 

[Joseph Lupp]

I bought OME torsion bars. And without replacing my front bumper with an aftermarket it was a waste of money. Only upgrade to OME if you add weight to your front end.

I am not replacing my front bumper. But, was told that the OME torsion bars would allow me to get 2.5" lift in the front. Same person stated that LC torsion adjustment would only lift it 3/4". Thoughts?

 

[TexasCrane]

I am not replacing my front bumper. But, was told that the OME torsion bars would allow me to get 2.5" lift in the front. Same person stated that LC torsion adjustment would only lift it 3/4". Thoughts?

They don't know what they're talking about. The torsion bars aren't the limiting factor in how much lift you can get up front. The geometry of the front suspension and related component is the limiting factor. You have to maintain sufficient droop. The heavier torsion bars just handle more weight up front (bumpers, winches, etc).

 

[JPCruiser]

I have an 01 LC with about 170,000 miles on it. No aftermarket parts on it anywhere (YET). What is the easiest way to restore my factory front height? I am going to add Airlift bags to the rear coils. I am not looking to really lift the truck, rather restore the sagging suspension, including shocks. It seems like coil-over shocks would be a simple way, but I don't know if they would fit nor where to start the search for some. Thanks.

 

[TexasCrane]

I have an 01 LC with about 170,000 miles on it. No aftermarket parts on it anywhere (YET). What is the easiest way to restore my factory front height? I am going to add Airlift bags to the rear coils. I am not looking to really lift the truck, rather restore the sagging suspension, including shocks. It seems like coil-over shocks would be a simple way, but I don't know if they would fit nor where to start the search for some. Thanks.

Why wouldn't you just replace the coils and replace/adjust the front torsion bars?

 

[JPCruiser]

That is a great question TexasCrane. The best answer is that this is my first TLC and I am not a mechanic. I am willing and trying to learn. I apologize if I asked a stupid question, I have searched and read and cannot find a direct answer to my question. You answered one. I did not know the bars were adjustable in the same manner as my Tahoe was. Will lifting the front about 0.75-1.0 inch cause me to need an alignment or camber/caster adjustment? I will probably still use bags in the rear coils because I love the ones on my 07 Sequoia and on my wifes GL 550 so much. We haul anything from only the driver to our family of four plus a bunch of shooting supplies and pull a trailer with a Kawasaki Mule on it. Squatted rear ends are a real pet peeve of mine. I appreciate any advice, or link to instructions or video on adjusting the torsion bars. Thanks in advance!

 

[cruzerDave]

If you raise the front to level the truck (you mention restoring front height) be prepared to replace at least the clamps on the front boots, or the boots themselves. The change in geometry causes leaks to start where before they were fine... search for my posts and you'll see recetn threads on this with part numbers/procedures/etc.

 

[JPCruiser]

Thank you very much Cruizer Dave. The front axle boots are the originals so they are about 16 years old with 170K miles. They are not leaking now, but they are hard and feel brittle. I examine them carefully at each oil change. Based on your info, I will probably just replace the shocks with OEM equivalents to stop the floating and bouncing from the originals that probably wore out 10 years ago, LOL. I will just focus on preventing further squat under load in the rear with OEM spec replacements. I can't justify to myself spending Bilstein prices to return it to OEM, but that's just me.

 

[TexasCrane]

I appreciate any advice, or link to instructions or video on adjusting the torsion bars. Thanks in advance!

Scroll down to the suspension section:
100 series LC/LX FAQ and Featured Trucks

 

[drjman]

That is a great question TexasCrane. The best answer is that this is my first TLC and I am not a mechanic. I am willing and trying to learn. I apologize if I asked a stupid question, I have searched and read and cannot find a direct answer to my question. You answered one. I did not know the bars were adjustable in the same manner as my Tahoe was. Will lifting the front about 0.75-1.0 inch cause me to need an alignment or camber/caster adjustment? I will probably still use bags in the rear coils because I love the ones on my 07 Sequoia and on my wifes GL 550 so much. We haul anything from only the driver to our family of four plus a bunch of shooting supplies and pull a trailer with a Kawasaki Mule on it. Squatted rear ends are a real pet peeve of mine. I appreciate any advice, or link to instructions or video on adjusting the torsion bars. Thanks in advance!

I replaced my stock LX bars with used LC bars and it was surprisingly easy. I am lifted about an inch in the front and it drives straight as an arrow. I'm watching tread wear though, because just driving straight does not mean it's aligned. I used the FAQ section and also used bits and pieces from the Slee install guide (it goes through TB replacement with OME, but it's the same procedure).

http://www.sleeoffroad.com/installation/ome_100_suspension_v1.2.pdf

 

[JPCruiser]

Great info. Thank you!