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#23861 05/28/2004 7:44 PM
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 920
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'Bolter
'Bolter
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Posts: 920
Has anyone out there done anything to improve handling on 60 -62 task force 1/2 tons w/ torsion bar IFS? Is a bolt -on sway bar a possibility? If so, where can I find one that works? I don't trust what is available from LMC as I've received parts that don't fit from them in the past and they don't seem to have any knowlegable techs. :mad: Can I do anything else with the existing suspension to improve cornering? Any input is appreciated.


1962 Fleetside 4spd 235 w/O.D. posi 3:90
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1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon AWD 2.2 5sp
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#23862 05/28/2004 9:21 PM
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 234
Shop Shark
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Joined: May 2000
Posts: 234
As they say - it will always corner like a pickup truck! What's the goal?

I would bet with a little junkyarding you could find a sway bar from a '60s or '70s chev/gmc that would fit with minor modifications. I'm thinking the '76 - '84 could be a little wide but you never know.

-Boyo


'48 Willys CJ-2A / '55.1 Chevy 3600 / '66 Austin-Healey 3000 / '04 Volvo wagon (parenthood!?)
#23863 05/28/2004 10:03 PM
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 920
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'Bolter
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I'm not building a hot-rod. I just want the tuck to handle better on higher speed corners as on the highway. I really have to crawl thru them as is. I'm thinking new radials, new shocks(any suggestions?) and sway bar while sticking with original IFS will make me happy. I'm still open to suggestions on wheel/tire combos as I haven't heard any good advice on that matter.


1962 Fleetside 4spd 235 w/O.D. posi 3:90
In the Stovebolt Gallery
1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon AWD 2.2 5sp
2013 Ram Tradesman C/V
My Webshot Photos]
#23864 05/28/2004 11:37 PM
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 252
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Shop Shark
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Posts: 252
Docta, I have a '61 with original GM torsion bar IFS. The factory assembly manual does show a sway bar available, for the larger trucks. I have recently located a '62 LCF tow truck in a yard about 75 miles from me, and I suspect it may have the bar, Have'nt had time to go investigate yet. It is a totally different set up than that of the '63-'72 models, which also use the same bar, with a different bracket set up, thru '87. The later bar would work on our trucks, if there were something to bolt the ends to on the lower control arm. I have thought about welding in a plate to fill the empty gap. Not sure how this could effect handling, and don't really see why it would. I'm trying to find an original bar before I go this route. Try to find a one ton, or better yet, LCF type truck, in a yard nearby. You need the bar, the brackets that mount to the FRONT of the lower control arm, and the U shaped brackets that hold the bushings onto the frame. The end links and bushings themselves are common size type items at the local part store. One other advantage us torsion bar guys have over the coil springers, we can lower the front suspension by adjusting those big nuts at the far end of torsion bar just under the transmission. That alone might get you better handling. Good Luck.


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