Torsion Bar

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the torsion bar assembly on the 2024 Rivian EDV 500 commercial delivery van, including proper loading/unloading procedures for the torsion bar.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Torsion bar × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Torsion bar adjustment bolt (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Torsion bar mounting hardware kit × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind wheels opposite of work area
3. Power down vehicle completely using infotainment system shutdown procedure
4. Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal and wait 5 minutes
5. Raise vehicle using floor jack at manufacturer-specified lift points
6. Support vehicle securely on jack stands at frame contact points
7. Remove wheel and tire assembly from side being serviced
8. Apply rust penetrant to all torsion bar mounting hardware and allow to soak for 15 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark adjustment position
   Locate the torsion bar adjustment bolt at the rear crossmember. Using a marker or paint pen, mark the exact position of the adjustment bolt relative to the adjustment arm and crossmember. Count and record the number of threads visible on the adjustment bolt. Take photos for reference during reassembly. This is critical for maintaining proper ride height.
2. 2

   Measure ride height
   Measure and record the current ride height from the ground to the bottom of the rocker panel at the center of the door opening. Also measure from the ground to a fixed point on the lower control arm. Record these measurements for comparison after installation.
3. 3

   Install torsion bar unloading tool
   Position the torsion bar unloading tool onto the adjustment bolt and adjustment arm according to the tool manufacturer's instructions. Ensure the tool is properly seated and aligned to prevent slippage during unloading. The tool must be capable of handling the stored energy in the torsion bar.
4. 4

   Unload torsion bar tension
   Using the torsion bar unloading tool, slowly apply tension to take the load off the adjustment bolt. Turn the tool handle gradually and evenly. Once tension is relieved from the adjustment bolt (you should be able to turn it by hand), remove the adjustment bolt completely. Continue using the unloading tool to slowly and carefully release all tension from the torsion bar. This must be done gradually over several minutes to prevent sudden release.
5. 5

   Disconnect torsion bar from lower control arm
   Locate the torsion bar anchor point at the lower control arm. Remove the retaining hardware securing the torsion bar to the lower control arm hex key receiver. Support the torsion bar as you remove the last fastener to prevent it from dropping. Some models may have a snap ring or retaining clip that must be removed first.
6. 6

   Remove torsion bar from rear anchor
   At the rear crossmember, remove the mounting hardware securing the torsion bar anchor to the frame. The torsion bar should now be free from both mounting points. Carefully slide the torsion bar rearward out of the lower control arm, then remove it from the vehicle. Note the orientation and any alignment marks for installation.
7. 7

   Inspect mounting points
   Thoroughly inspect the torsion bar mounting points at both the lower control arm and rear crossmember for wear, damage, or corrosion. Check the adjustment arm for cracks or deformation. Clean all mounting surfaces with a wire brush. Inspect the adjustment bolt threads for damage. Replace any damaged components before installing the new torsion bar.
8. 8

   Prepare new torsion bar
   Verify the new torsion bar is correct for the side being serviced (left or right). Apply a light coating of anti-seize compound to the splined ends of the torsion bar and the adjustment bolt threads. Ensure all alignment marks are visible and clean.
9. 9

   Install torsion bar into rear anchor
   Position the torsion bar into the rear crossmember anchor, ensuring proper orientation according to manufacturer markings. The adjuster end must be positioned correctly relative to the adjustment arm. Install and hand-tighten the rear mounting hardware but do not fully torque yet.
10. 10

    Connect torsion bar to lower control arm
    Slide the front splined end of the torsion bar into the lower control arm hex receiver. Align the splines carefully and ensure the bar is fully seated. Install the retaining hardware and any clips or snap rings. Hand-tighten fasteners at this stage.
11. 11

    Load torsion bar with unloading tool
    Reinstall the torsion bar unloading tool onto the adjustment arm. Carefully and gradually apply tension to the torsion bar using the tool until you can install the adjustment bolt. Turn the adjustment bolt to the previously marked position, matching the thread count recorded during removal. Once the adjustment bolt is supporting the load, carefully release tension from the unloading tool and remove it.
12. 12

    Torque all mounting hardware
    Working from front to rear, torque all torsion bar mounting hardware to manufacturer specifications. Since specific torque values are not provided in the database, refer to the vehicle service manual or contact Rivian service for proper torque specifications. Verify all fasteners are properly seated and torqued.
13. 13

    Verify adjustment and alignment
    Double-check that the adjustment bolt is in the exact position marked during disassembly. Verify all mounting hardware is tight and the torsion bar is properly seated at both ends. Check that there is no binding or interference with surrounding components throughout the suspension travel range.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall wheel and tire assembly, torquing lug nuts to manufacturer specifications in a star pattern
2. Carefully lower vehicle from jack stands using floor jack
3. Remove jack stands and lower vehicle completely to ground
4. Reconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal
5. Perform final torque check on all lug nuts with vehicle on ground
6. Bounce the vehicle several times to settle the suspension before final measurements

Verification

• Measure ride height at the same points recorded during disassembly and verify it matches within 10mm
• Visually inspect that the vehicle sits level side-to-side when viewed from front and rear
• Test drive vehicle at low speed and verify normal suspension operation with no unusual noises or handling issues
• Perform a full lock-to-lock steering test to ensure no binding or interference
• Check all torsion bar mounting hardware for tightness after test drive
• Schedule a professional alignment check within 50 miles of completion, as ride height changes may have occurred
• Monitor ride height and handling characteristics over the next several days of normal operation

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