Help rebuilding RE trackbar joint

scott_m_c · Jul 20, 2007

My RE HD trackbar is too short.
I just installed the RE5.5 lift kit, and when the axle is centered the TB joint is screwed on by only 4 turns. So, I got the longer coupler as discussed here...

http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=55507&highlight=1660+threads

I got the coupler without the joint... I am going to swap the joint over from the short coupler.

I am trying to find out how much torque is required for the threaded insert before putting in the set screw. I've emailed RE 3 times now with no response.

Thanks for any help.

F9K9 · Jul 20, 2007

scott_m_c said:
I've emailed RE 3 times now with no response..........Thanks for any help.

Give them a call, they are very helpful!

cal · Jul 20, 2007

I used to go as tight as I could with hand tools, and had problems with the joints loosening up.

I talked to a few locals that use a lot of SF joints, and now I put the impact on them, probably 165 foot pounds. I've stopped having problems.

scott_m_c · Jul 21, 2007

How can the joint get loose? The set screw keeps the threaded insert from turning. I'm sure after time the races will wear down but, 165 seems a bit much for a new joint. I'm not sure the threads on the insert will handle that, or the little nubs on the tool for that matter.

You really hit them with 165 from an impact?

http://www.rubiconexpress.com/Products.aspx?Cn=169&Pn=1976&XnPath=169&Vid=3C03622835520
http://www.rubiconexpress.com/Products.aspx?Cn=169&Pn=1966&XnPath=169&Vid=3C03622835520

BlueCuda · Jul 21, 2007

First time I did this I hit them with an impact, it was a 3/8 impact and it shredded the tool for the joints LOL. I would NOT recomend that.

scott_m_c · Jul 21, 2007

OK...

So, after you did that :doh: how tight did you torque it by hand?

I swear I've seen this discussed before, but I can't find it.

cal · Jul 21, 2007

scott_m_c said:
How can the joint get loose? The set screw keeps the threaded insert from turning. I'm sure after time the races will wear down but, 165 seems a bit much for a new joint. I'm not sure the threads on the insert will handle that, or the little nubs on the tool for that matter.

You really hit them with 165 from an impact?

The bushings compress when they are new, and compress a lot more under stress. I have to replace them on my trackbar and UCA's about once a year, the 2.5" SF joint bushings on my lowers seem to hold up pretty good.

And yes, I really hit them at about 165 with an impact. I use my electric impact, it is "supposed" to push 200 foot pounds, but seems to nail things down at about 165.

BlueCuda · Jul 21, 2007

I ghetto'd it with a punch to tighten it. Worked well, took it down for a re-adjust about 6 months later. Its been 2 or so years now and its all good.

Help rebuilding RE trackbar joint

scott_m_c

NAXJA Forum User

F9K9

Semper Fi

cal

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scott_m_c

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BlueCuda

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scott_m_c

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cal

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BlueCuda

NAXJA Forum User

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