Trunk Torsion Bar Installation

[Marccus]

One of the torsion bars in my trunk fell off.

This has happened several times on my '89 SHO. Several years ago I was able to re-install the bar on the correct notch, but it was EXTREMELY difficult.

I first installed the bar on the notch and then bent it parallel to the insertion slot and forced it in. But I almost broke my arms doing it.

Now, several years later and older, I don't seem to have the strength to do it again. I've tried to first slide one end into the slot and then bend the arm to place it on the proper notch, but I found this even more difficult and next to impossible to do while lying in the trunk. I tried for several hours to get this !%#$%* bar on. :burn_out: :headbang: :headbang:

Is there a special tool or technique to get this bar installed or do I just have to call Arrrrrnold Schwarzenpecker to do it for me.

How does the dealership do it?

 

[Gez89SHO]

We put it in by creatively using the tire jack. Put in on top of a box or something as the jack itself might be too short. Then when the spring lines up with the notch, slide it in.

 

[AutoSHO]

I put a socket that fit snug over the end of one bar and then stuck an extension on that to give me more leverage and a better angle to get at it. Then again, I only increased the tension, mine didn't come out completely.

 

[olympic]

You need something to give you extra leverage. The socket and extension tip sounds good, I use a vise grip. Clamp it real tight onto the end, place the bent end into it's slot and then wrestle it into place.

 

[Marccus]

I've tried the vise grip approach and couldn't wrestle the sucker in.

The tire jack idea sounds good.

Which end did you put the jack under?

Did you:

1)) slide in the straight portion into the slot and then use the jack to push the other end up until you could push it into the notch or -

2)) put the notch end on first, then use the jack to push up the straight end until it is at the same elevation as the slot and push (or pull depending on your orientation) the 5" long straight section of the rod into the slot.

Many Thanks.

 

[Gez89SHO]

Option 1- We put the straight portion into the slot in the trunk lid first, then used the jack on the other end. Just be careful as you slide it in, the spring is under tension at that point and you don't want it to slip off the jack until it's seated. Use pliers to move it if it's easier. After that it should be fixed