The problem: lifting your Ram will cause the axle to shift while using the stock tracbar in the factory location. 2 ways of fixing this are to get a bracket to relocate the stock bar or install an aftermarket bar that is adjustable. This writeup is for the adjustable bar. Note how the tire is located in relation to the fender using a long level, or a small level and a straight edge would also work.
1. jack up the front of the truck so the fornt wheels are off the ground and support the frame with jackstands.
2. disconnect both ends of the swaybar
3. using 2 jacks to support the axle, unbolt both ends of the tracbar and remove it
4. lay both old & new tracbars side by side and adjust the new tracbar so that it is approx 1/4" longer than the stock bar.
5. install the new tracbar but do not torque down the bolts. On a 2nd gen truck, tighten the drivers side enough that it is sung and does not move. the easiest way to install the passenger side is to use the jack to bring the axle up to the bar with the jack.
6. drop the truck on the ground and remeasure the centering of the axle as outlined in "the Problem" section.
7. Now you will have a reference to center the axle with the new measurement. Next all you'll have to do is ajdust the passenger side of the axle to move the axle one way or the other until it is centered.
8. Once it is centered and your happy with it, torque down the tracbar bolts to 150 ft lbs, 2nd gen drivers side should be secified in your kit instructions.
9. reconnect the sway bar ends
10. drop the truck back on the ground and your done.
oh but wait, now you get in the cab and notice the steering wheel is way off center... now it's either off to the alignment shop or the DIY toe alignment proceedure... http://www.dodgeforum.com/m_1040882/tm.htm
This ad is not displayed to registered and logged-in members. Register your free account today and become a member on Dodge Forums!
As expected, great write up. I can't get over how clean that garage floor is. If I even think about doing something to one of my vehicles I leave a grease/oil spot (not to mention the grass and leaves that blow in).
How much did you raise your truck? I will at some point install a 2" leveling kit on mine, do you think that will shift the front axel enough to need an adjustable tracbar?
The clean floor is a thing of the past... after doing the transfer case swap on the dak, it's a mess now.
you will need to recenter your axle if you lift the front. If you planning on the 2" spacer install, I still have the brand new set of edlebrock shocks sitting in the garage that would go nicely with the leveling kit... stock shocks are crap, these offer an improved ride on the road and a smoother ride in off road situations, they really shine on the washboard type of dirt roads.
I raised it 2.5" with the D25 skyjacker springs. the reason for it was to eliminate the tire rubbing I had while close to steering lock. turned out that it didnt quite make it which led me to the tracbar install. if these tires werent 13.5" wide, it wouldnt be a problem (rubbing).
Ive been looking at the Thuren complete steering kit. . .Ty has one and I was quite impressed with it. . .
Steve, whats the signs the stock track bar is getting bad?
__________________
4/28/07 392hp 716tq on the stock clutch
10/20/07 425hp 798 still on the stock clutch
BIG THANKS to David and the guy's at James O'neal Dodge.
YOU GUY'S ROC
thats what I was figureing as well. . .however I do remember him saying that the one on his 2nd gen did go bad.
__________________
4/28/07 392hp 716tq on the stock clutch
10/20/07 425hp 798 still on the stock clutch
BIG THANKS to David and the guy's at James O'neal Dodge.
YOU GUY'S ROC
I don't think his was bad, just that he wanted his axle centered under his truck.
That's the reason I want one. Since I put Moto Metal rims on mine you can really tell it's not centered because the driver side sticks out pass my flares now
__________________
2007 Ram 2500 QC SLT 6.7L Auto 4X4
Kore Recon Suspension & Thuren Tracbar & Control Arms
Defiant Steering Box Support
Ultra Goliath 18X9 with 35" Pro Comp Xtreme A/T's
DIY tracbar install
1998.5 Ram Cummins 24 valve turbo diesel
