TORSION BAR SUSPENSION What: There are no coil springs in a torsion bar suspension system. Instead, a torsion bar supports the vehicle weight and absorbs the road shocks. While a coil spring performs these functions by compressing, the torsion bar acts by twisting. How: The torsion bar is connected between the lower control arm and the frame.… Continue reading Torsion Bars

STEERING LINKAGE Suspension system components couple to the steering linkage at the steering knuckles, and the condition of the suspension system affects steering capability. Worn shocks or struts, for example, contribute to front-end wander. Tie rod ends are bolted to the steering knuckles. A ball and socket joint in the tie rod end makes this… Continue reading Steering Linkage

RACK AND PINION An increasingly popular type of steering system is rack and pinion. A pinion gear translates the rotary motion of the steering wheel into the linear motion of the rack. The rack acts like the center link, moving the tie rods back and forth to steer the vehicle. Rack placement varies from one… Continue reading Rack and Pinion

PANHARD BAR What: A bar with pivoting ends that prevents the front or rear axle from moving from side to side during suspension travel. How: A panhard bar connects to the frame at one end and the axle, suspension component or rearend housing at the other. They swing through an arc when the suspension travels up or… Continue reading Panhard Bar

COMMON SHAFT SIZESManual mustang/Pinto, Manual Omni, & Cross Steer 9/16″-26 SplineVega Box 5/8″-36 SplinePwer Mustang/Omni Rack 3/4″-36 SplineLate GM Steering Columns 1″-DD ShaftEarly Late GM Steering Columns 1″-48 SplineGM 525 Steering Box 3/4″-30 SplineGM 600 Steering Box 3/4″-30 SplineAftermarket Steering Columns (Ididit) 1″-DD Shaft/1″-48 Spline These Great Tips brought to you by: Unisteer – Maval Mfg