Torsion Bar

This procedure covers removal and installation of the front torsion bars on a 2007 Ram 3500 4WD, including ride height adjustment and alignment considerations.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Torsion bar (left or right as needed) × 1 — Use OEM specification - bars are side-specific
• Torsion bar adjustment bolt and nut × 1 — Use OEM specification if damaged
• Anti-seize compound × 1 — High-temperature rated

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Measure and record ride height from ground to center of wheel hub on both front wheels for reference
4. Loosen front wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground
5. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack at frame rail
6. Support vehicle with jack stands under frame rails behind lower control arms
7. Remove front wheels
8. Spray torsion bar adjuster bolts, anchor arm bolts, and key retention components with penetrating oil and allow to soak

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark adjustment position
   Before unloading the torsion bar, count and record the number of threads showing on the adjustment bolt above the adjustment nut. Use a paint marker to mark the relationship between the adjustment bolt and the adjuster arm for accurate reinstallation of ride height.
2. 2

   Install torsion bar unloading tool
   Position the torsion bar unloading tool on the adjustment arm and adjustment bolt per the tool manufacturer's instructions. Ensure the tool is properly seated and aligned before applying any tension.
3. 3

   Unload torsion bar tension
   Turn the unloading tool to apply upward pressure on the adjustment arm, relieving tension from the adjustment bolt. Only apply enough pressure to unload the bolt - approximately 1-2 turns of the tool. Verify that tension is removed from the adjustment bolt by attempting to turn it by hand.
   ⚠Do not over-tension the unloading tool. Apply only enough pressure to unload the adjustment bolt.
4. 4

   Remove adjustment bolt
   With the torsion bar unloaded, remove the adjustment bolt nut and turn the adjustment bolt counterclockwise to remove it completely from the adjustment arm. Store the bolt and nut for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Release torsion bar tension
   Slowly and carefully release the torsion bar unloading tool, allowing the adjustment arm to drop. Remove the unloading tool once all tension is released. The lower control arm will drop as tension is released.
   ⚠️Release tension slowly and maintain control of the tool. The adjustment arm will move as tension is released.
6. 6

   Mark torsion bar orientation
   Use a paint marker to mark the orientation of the torsion bar where it enters the anchor arm and where it engages the lower control arm key. Mark both the bar and the mating components to ensure correct reinstallation orientation.
7. 7

   Remove torsion bar anchor
   Remove the bolts securing the torsion bar anchor to the frame crossmember. Slide the anchor and torsion bar rearward to disengage the bar from the lower control arm key. The anchor may require gentle prying or tapping to break it free from the crossmember.
8. 8

   Remove torsion bar
   Slide the torsion bar rearward out of the anchor arm. Note the position of any rubber isolators or sleeves. Clean the anchor arm bore and inspect for wear or damage. Wire brush the torsion bar ends to remove rust and debris.
9. 9

   Inspect components
   Inspect the torsion bar for cracks, twisting, or damage. Check the adjustment arm, anchor, and lower control arm key for wear, cracks, or damage. Verify that the replacement bar matches the removed bar in length and hex configuration. Confirm left/right side designation is correct.
   ⚠Torsion bars are manufactured with specific left and right configurations. Installing the wrong side will cause handling problems and premature wear.
10. 10

    Install torsion bar into anchor
    Apply a light coat of anti-seize compound to the torsion bar ends. Slide the torsion bar into the anchor arm from the rear, aligning the hex ends properly. Ensure the bar is fully seated in the anchor.
11. 11

    Install anchor assembly
    Position the anchor assembly with the torsion bar to the frame crossmember. Align the torsion bar front hex end with the lower control arm key, referencing your orientation marks. Install the anchor bolts and tighten securely. The torsion bar hex must fully engage the lower control arm key.
12. 12

    Install and adjust torsion bar tension
    Reinstall the torsion bar unloading tool on the adjustment arm. Apply upward tension to lift the adjustment arm. Install the adjustment bolt through the adjustment arm, turning it clockwise to the previously marked position. Thread count and position marks should align with your initial measurements. Install and tighten the adjustment nut.
13. 13

    Release unloading tool and verify
    Slowly release the torsion bar unloading tool, allowing the adjustment arm to settle onto the adjustment bolt. Remove the tool. Verify that the adjustment bolt is properly seated and the arm moves freely without binding.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall front wheels and tighten lug nuts in a star pattern
2. Lower vehicle to ground and torque lug nuts to manufacturer specification
3. Bounce the front end of the vehicle several times to settle the suspension
4. Measure ride height and compare to original measurements - adjust torsion bar tension as needed by turning adjustment bolt
5. Road test vehicle and verify normal handling and ride quality

Verification

• Verify ride height matches original measurements on both sides (within 1/4 inch)
• Check that adjustment bolt is properly seated and adjustment nut is tight
• Verify no unusual noises from front suspension during test drive
• Confirm vehicle tracks straight with no pulling to either side
• Schedule front-end alignment to ensure proper camber, caster, and toe settings

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