Aftermarket Trackbar?

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Which is the aftermarket trackbar that people are using to correct the various wandering and pulling problems?

My new 2001. 5 3500 had a very slight pull to the right with the stock wheels/tires. Now that I've put my Rickson 19. 5's on that came off of my '96, the pull is now very pronounced, and I'm not using the same tires up front that I did before.

I know the dealer won't do anything about it without stock tires on it, but first, it's not bad enough for them to fool with with stock wheels, and second, I already have the stockers sold.

I figure I'll just go ahead and get the GOOD trackbar, and have the truck aligned, and go from there.

Rob

 

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<font color=blue>I heard the Lindstatd adjustable track bar is a good one and runs about $68 bucks.

Also heard people using one from Napa as well.

 

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Adjustable would be very good.

And as long as I don't have to buy it from 4WheelParts. #ad


Rob

 

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I don't know how much better you can get than a lifetime warranty,even if you have to replace it every 20k. The replacement is a five minute job unless you fall asleep under your truck(my favorite place for a nap,everybody thinks you're working). I used a lifetime NAPA bar-$160.

Kat,you sure about that Linstat price?Seems too cheap to me.

 

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Rob,

Our selection of aftermarket adjustable track bars is very limited.

You may try to get a drop bracket from Trailmaster, Skyjacker, or Rancho ect. You will have to speak to their techs. Not sure if they are sold seperately.

It appears Linstad`s bar is not adjustable lengthwise like you need. Its adjusable as the ball joint wears, to take up the play. I don`t know that much about it. I could be wrong.

More info on Linstad: http://www.westdakota.com/lindstad/

Probably the best trackbar for our trucks is the DT HEIM Joint track bar. (Pictured below) Its is fully adjustable lengthwise to pull your axle back to center. #ad


A note: I had the DT Heim joint T-bar 1/2 way installed in my truck. It was on a Sat. DT was closed. I had tech questions. One of the 4" bolts that holds the bracket to the trucks frame is supposed to go thru a hole at the bottom of the frame and the top. Well the holes are 1/2" out of line. The bolt will only go in at a 30 degree angle. No way I could get a drill in there to straighten the holes. Second problem was the bolt was too long. It butted up against the steering shaft. Reverse it and it hung to low. probably would interfere with the piman arm. The only problems I had were with the bracket that replaces the factory tapered ball joint mount on the frame.
I got fed up and put everything back in the box and shipped it back. Talked to DT HEIM joint that next Monday. The long bolt is supposed to be tightened at a 30 degree angle (way cocked). It just didn`t look right. DT HEIM joint said they were upgrading the bar to include a "turnbuckle" type lengthway adjustment. BY NO MEANS LET MY EXPERIENCE WITH DT HEIM JOINT PERSWADE YOU IN NOT PURCHASING THE BAR. I just had bad luck. It was one of those days! LOTS of guys love it.

Great info on DT HEIM JOINT T-BAR HERE: http://www.ecpe.vt.edu/~dfritz/technical/STEERING/trackbar/dt_install.html

Good Luck #ad



Bill R
94 2500 SLT 4x4 5 Speed, 3. 54 LS, JRE 4" exhaust, Autometer Pyro, Boost & Water temp gauges, Bosch 215 HP injectors, Timing @ 14. 7 º, JRE Stage III #4 plate 270/675, AFC spring kit, Scotty Air, Bully Dog Propane Injection, Roadmaster Active Suspension, Optima Red Tops, Geno`s Exhaust Blanket,Espar Heater (won it!), Synthetic lubes throughout.



[This message has been edited by HEMI®Dart (edited 10-31-2000). ]

 

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Bill:

Please pardon my ignorance, but what will a drop bracket do for me?

Rob

 

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Rob,
I`m in another world #ad
.

I thought that your had leveling springs in front and your front axle was off center because of the added lift. I figured you needed an adjustable one to push it back to center.


As long as your factory track bar is tight at the ball joint, I wouldn`t replace it. I doubt you can find one better or much stronger that would help your pulling problem. Find a GOOD alignment tech. I did, took me awhile, and he said the Dodge alignment specs are crap. He set the truck up the way he knows best. It tracks as straight as an arrow . #ad


DT`s Heim joint bar is bullet proof. It can be kept to the stock length. Would it help your pulling problem... ... ..... I doubt it.



[This message has been edited by HEMI®Dart (edited 10-31-2000). ]

 

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Hello! If its any help, I did swap out for a Linstadt bar early this summer. My experience with the company (shipping, core charge, etc. ) was great. The tracking and handling is improved as well. Only one thing…Over large bumps I am getting a sharp mechanical rap into the frame and floorpan. On inspection I found (98 12V Ram Quad SB) the rear edge of the spring-loaded bar joint (which bolts to the frame) is contacting the top curve of the front differential cover. As the axle rises the pumpkins cover won't completely clear the profile of the new trackbar, which must stand down from the frame rail farther?? This was happening (but I didn't know the cause) before and after an alignment, so I don't think that's a factor. Its not severe, just annoying. Anyone else encounter this??

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