TB Torsion Bar Install

[bj2348]

All,

Didn't see a post for this, so I decided to document my install.

First, used some spacers to take some of the wobble out of the bar. I know the clamp force is what drives the coupling, and there is no loading in shear... but the difference in the diameter of the bolt and the tube of the bar is bugging me.

For those that are interested, 1/2" copper PEX crimp rings and 1/2" tube fit perfectly and take the majority of the slop out.

 

[bj2348]

Next up torque values since the bar came with no directions:

Head of bolt tells us that is it Grade 8 (six hashes)

https://www.boltdepot.com/fastener-information/Bolts/US-Recommended-Torque.aspx?nv=res

1/2" Grade 8 fine thread - 90 Ft-Lbs

 

[bj2348]

Bar is installed - BUT I think I see a design flaw. The bar uses pipe on either end and that pipe has 90 degree cuts. The axle is shaped more like an upside down U. Which means that there is not a good tight fit from the either the top of the bar to the torsion bar OR the washer on top. This will lead to long term loosening, I fear. I've included a sketch (NOT to SCALE) to show what I mean. I think you could grind a rounded profile in the top of the bar and maybe make a spacer for the top to reduce the risk for loosening. But that is just my opinion.

 

[LionsTooth]

Bar is installed - BUT I think I see a design flaw. The bar uses pipe on either end and that pipe has 90 degree cuts. The torsion bar in the bar is shaped more like an upside down U. Which means that there is not a good tight fit from the either the top of the bar to the torsion bar OR the washer on top. This will lead to long term loosening, I fear. I've included a sketch (NOT to SCALE) to show what I mean. I think you could grind a rounded profile in the top of the bar and maybe make a spacer for the top to reduce the risk for loosening. But that is just my opinion.

Yeah, that is not right, IMO; should be a tight fit. That and you had a loose fit that you chose to fix with your own bushing. Not a great product.