Torsion Bar Adjustment

This procedure corrects vehicle ride height by adjusting the front torsion bar tension. Note: 2015-2020 Ford F-150 models use coil spring front suspension, not torsion bars.

Warnings

Tools required

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Verify this procedure is appropriate for your vehicle - confirm suspension type by visual inspection under front of vehicle

Procedure

1. 1

   Verify Suspension Type
   Raise the front of the vehicle slightly with a floor jack and inspect the front suspension components. The 2015-2020 F-150 uses MacPherson strut-type independent front suspension with coil springs mounted on the struts. There are no torsion bars present on this vehicle. If torsion bars are visible (cylindrical bars running from lower control arms to crossmember), you may have a different vehicle model or year range.
2. 2

   Measure Current Ride Height
   Lower the vehicle to the ground with full vehicle weight on all four wheels. Measure from the ground to a fixed reference point on the front frame rail or lower control arm pivot point on both sides. Record measurements to establish baseline ride height. Consult Ford service manual for factory ride height specifications for your specific F-150 configuration.
3. 3

   Identify Ride Height Adjustment Method
   Since this vehicle does not have torsion bars, ride height adjustment requires different methods: (1) Install aftermarket leveling kit with strut spacers, (2) Replace coil springs with taller or shorter springs, (3) Replace struts with adjustable-height struts, or (4) Verify current components are not worn or sagging. Torsion bar adjustment bolts do not exist on this suspension design.
4. 4

   Inspect Suspension Components
   If ride height is incorrect, inspect coil springs for sagging or breakage, struts for leakage or damage, and control arm bushings for wear. A sagging coil spring or failed strut will cause reduced ride height and cannot be corrected by adjustment - component replacement is required.
5. 5

   Consult Alternative Procedures
   For ride height correction on this vehicle, refer to the appropriate repair procedure: 'Coil Spring Replacement', 'Front Strut Replacement', or 'Leveling Kit Installation'. These are the correct methods for adjusting front ride height on 2015-2020 Ford F-150 models.

Reassembly

1. This procedure does not apply to the specified vehicle as it has no torsion bars to adjust
2. If suspension work was performed to correct ride height, ensure all fasteners are torqued to specification
3. Install wheels and torque lug nuts to specification after any suspension work

Verification

• Confirm vehicle suspension type matches the repair procedure being performed
• After any suspension component replacement, measure ride height on level ground and compare to factory specifications
• Test drive vehicle and verify proper handling and ride quality
• Have front end alignment checked after any suspension component replacement or ride height modification

More procedures for this vehicle