Torsion Bar Adjustment

Adjust the torsion bar suspension to correct vehicle ride height and level the chassis on the 2025 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Torsion bar adjustment bolt (if damaged) × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Torsion bar adjustment nut (if damaged) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on a level, flat surface with firm ground capable of supporting jack stands
2. Ensure battery state of charge is above 20% to allow for accurate weight distribution
3. Check tire pressures and adjust all tires to specification (found on driver door jamb placard)
4. Remove any cargo or unnecessary weight from the vehicle to obtain accurate ride height measurements
5. Measure and record the current ride height at all four corners from the ground to the designated measurement points (typically lower control arm pivot bolt or frame reference point)
6. Photograph the current position of torsion bar adjustment bolts for reference
7. Apply penetrating oil to torsion bar adjustment bolt threads if corrosion is present and allow to soak for 15-20 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Secure vehicle and remove wheels
   Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels. Loosen the front wheel lug nuts while the vehicle is on the ground. Lift the front of the vehicle using a floor jack at the designated front jacking point. Support the vehicle with jack stands positioned at the frame rails behind the front wheels, ensuring the suspension hangs freely. Remove the front wheels completely and set aside.
2. 2

   Locate torsion bar adjustment mechanisms
   Position yourself under the front of the vehicle with adequate lighting. Locate the torsion bar adjustment bolts, typically found at the rear anchor point of each torsion bar where it connects to the lower control arm or frame crossmember. The adjustment bolt will be oriented longitudinally with the vehicle. Clean the adjustment bolt, nut, and surrounding area with a wire brush to remove dirt and corrosion.
3. 3

   Measure initial adjustment position
   Before making any adjustments, measure and record the current position of the adjustment bolt. Count and record the number of threads visible above the adjustment nut on both sides. Alternatively, measure the distance from the adjustment nut to a fixed reference point on the adjustment mechanism. Mark the current position with a marking pen on the bolt threads for visual reference.
4. 4

   Relieve tension on adjustment mechanism
   Using the floor jack with a block of wood, position it under the lower control arm near the ball joint to slightly unload the torsion bar. Raise the jack just enough to take minimal pressure off the adjustment bolt (approximately 1/4 inch of suspension compression). This will make the adjustment bolt easier to turn and reduce binding.
5. 5

   Adjust driver side torsion bar
   Using the appropriate socket, turn the torsion bar adjustment bolt clockwise to increase ride height or counterclockwise to decrease ride height. Make adjustments in small increments of 2-3 full turns at a time. For the EDV 500, each full turn of the adjustment bolt typically changes ride height by approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch. Keep track of the total number of turns made from the original position.
6. 6

   Adjust passenger side torsion bar
   Repeat the adjustment process on the passenger side torsion bar, making the same number of turns in the same direction as the driver side to maintain side-to-side balance. For uneven wear or load compensation, adjustments may differ slightly between sides, but aim for symmetry initially.
7. 7

   Lower vehicle and settle suspension
   Remove the floor jack from under the lower control arm. Reinstall both front wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands until it rests fully on the ground with all suspension weight loaded. Torque the wheel lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Bounce each corner of the vehicle several times to settle the suspension and allow components to find their natural resting position.
8. 8

   Measure new ride height
   Using the same measurement points as the initial measurement, measure and record the new ride height at all four corners. Compare measurements to the manufacturer's specification for the EDV 500, which should be found in the service manual. Front ride height should typically be within 0.5 inches side-to-side and meet the specified measurement from ground to reference point.
9. 9

   Make fine adjustments if needed
   If ride height is not within specification, lift the vehicle again, support with jack stands, and repeat the adjustment process. Make smaller incremental adjustments of 1/2 to 1 turn at a time for fine-tuning. Remember that the suspension must be settled each time by bouncing the vehicle after lowering to get accurate measurements.
10. 10

    Check alignment indicators
    With the vehicle at the correct ride height, visually inspect the front wheels for proper camber and toe alignment. Look at the tires from the front of the vehicle to check if they appear to lean in or out excessively. While precise alignment requires professional equipment, obvious misalignment should be apparent and will require a professional four-wheel alignment.
11. 11

    Test drive and final verification
    Perform a test drive on a level road at moderate speeds (25-45 mph). Evaluate vehicle handling, steering response, and verify the vehicle tracks straight without pulling to either side. Listen for any unusual noises from the suspension. Check that the steering wheel is centered when driving straight. Monitor dashboard for any suspension or ADAS warning lights that may indicate sensor calibration is needed.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all torsion bar adjustment bolts are secure and there is no excessive thread exposure that could indicate over-adjustment
2. Verify all wheel lug nuts are torqued to specification
3. Reinstall any splash shields or underbody panels that were removed for access

Verification

• Verify ride height measurements at all four corners meet manufacturer specifications and are within 0.5 inches side-to-side
• Confirm the vehicle sits level when viewed from the front and side on flat ground
• Verify no suspension warning lights are illuminated on the instrument cluster
• Check that steering wheel is centered during straight-line driving and vehicle does not pull to either side
• Confirm headlight aim appears correct and not pointed excessively high or low (professional aim adjustment may be required after ride height changes)
• Schedule a professional four-wheel alignment within 100 miles of this adjustment to ensure proper tire wear and handling characteristics
• If the vehicle is equipped with adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist, verify these systems function properly and schedule ADAS recalibration if any warnings appear

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