2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Question/Problem installing 3rd Gen Trackbar bracket from Windecker

[NVR FNSH]

Not a complaint about Windecker Machine - might be an installer problem... .



Here's the email I just sent Marv. Tried calling first but got no answer or answering machine. Not sure if the problem is me or something else. Posting here in hopes that somebody else ran into this and knows what to do.



Marv,

Finally getting around to installing the trackbar conversion brackets and I've got a question/I'm running into a problem on my dad's '96 2500 regarding the 5" long 1/2" dia bolt. I can only locate one hole in the cross member (it's actually a slot) next to/under the steering shaft on top of the crossmember and by using this slot the bolt ends up at an angle opposite to the surface of your conversion bracket. Basically the hex head (top of bolt) is further towards the rear of the truck than the hole in your bracket so the nylock nut has a point contact with the bracket and is digging into the washer and deforming the washer instead of applying a clamping force. Any suggestions?



Brian

 

[Boondocker]

The mounting hole problem on your '96 doesn't compare to my '02, fortunately I didn't have such an issue.



However, I did have a washer fitment problem on the bolt attaches the trackbar to the bracket. After bending and straightening the first washer, I decided to grind one edge down until it cleared (both washers). This worked fine. Notching it might have been better, but I don't have the right tools for that. I don't understand that washer size, there's no way it fits.



Neil

 

[BarryG]

I have the exact same issue. I have an 01. Just have not got around to calling. I have noticed that when it is raining I can hear it move. Only when it is wet. (steering and drivability do not seem to be affected at all but it is annoying as heck to hear it) All else is tight and fits great. That is the only place the movement can be happenning, the bolt sliding in the slot. I can get the 40ft lbs on the nut per the instructions but it is defiintely at an angle and as you said cannot be providing much clamping force at all. My nut is one of those lock type plastic insert nuts and I cannot seem to get it any tighter than it is(I can screw it more but it is like it strips the plastic and doesnt get any tighter). I was thinking of taking off that lock type and using a regular one with a lock washer and cranking the heck out of it. However thought the better of it. Please post what you find out am very interested in correcting this.

 

[fkovalski]

I ran into this on mine. If I read you correctly this is the bolt that comes DOWN through the frame and IS NOT the one that fastens to the steering box bolt nor the one that connects to the old track bar mount (the one with the bushing. )



I had to a little drilling of the frame and added another washer, used the bolt with loc tite and went on my way.



I actually spoke to Marv about this and he stated to the effect that the bolt from the top is not really needed so long as the other fasteners are installed properly. It was added to the kit because provisions to use an added one were there. It could be installed without it, but I made it work.



BTW- I took mine off as I am looking to trade in my truck for a 3G. I have this set up including track bar for sale. It has LESS that 2,000 miles! I will entertain reasonable offers.

 

[nps]

BTW- I took mine off as I am looking to trade in my truck for a 3G. I have this set up including track bar for sale. It has LESS that 2,000 miles! I will entertain reasonable offers.

Sent you a PM.

 

[NVR FNSH]

I ran into this on mine. If I read you correctly this is the bolt that comes DOWN through the frame and IS NOT the one that fastens to the steering box bolt nor the one that connects to the old track bar mount (the one with the bushing. )



I had to a little drilling of the frame and added another washer, used the bolt with loc tite and went on my way.



I actually spoke to Marv about this and he stated to the effect that the bolt from the top is not really needed so long as the other fasteners are installed properly. It was added to the kit because provisions to use an added one were there. It could be installed without it, but I made it work.

Correct, the 5" bolt that comes down from the top. The directions specify 40 ft*lbs so there really isn't much clamping force - I figured it wasn't really necessary but I thought I'd ask.



Brian