axle locating device

[gmclowsierra]

im going to build a 2 link for my 85 gmc. i already have the links from the factory hangers to the rear built, im looking for info on a locating device. i really dont want to a panhard bar due to the axle moving side to side when my bags are deflated and inflated. i cant afford to buy the kp components watts link for my truck, so i was wondering if i would run braces to x out my links that i have if that will hold the axle side to side? Thanks for the help. JOE

[texastrendz]

pan hard bar, just make it long.

[ccreddell]

+1

[Shane]

For the safety of everyone else on the road when you are, please add a Panhard bar.

[gmclowsierra]

thats fine if i have to do that but you dont think that the x would work

[bedsled71]

use a trac bar

[bedsled71]

its a rod with heims at both ends. one end mounts at the front of one link and the end at the end of the other link.. it triangulates your bars to eliminate latteral movement

[texastrendz]

most people use a pan hard bar on a two link. i did use a track bar on my triangulated 4 link because of all the flex in the bushings. it tightened it right up. i never have used a track bar on a two link, seems like it would work.

[ccreddell]

A track bar will work in theory, but logistically, seeing as how most two bars use the forward leaf spring hanger, you may run into interference with the frame, the driveshaft, or both.

[gmclowsierra]

thats what my theory was to use a track bar or actually two track bars and cross them like an x. instead of using bars with hiems i was going to use something liike 1 inch box tubing and just weld everything together.

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by gmclowsierra

thats what my theory was to use a track bar or actually two track bars and cross them like an x. instead of using bars with hiems i was going to use something liike 1 inch box tubing and just weld everything together.

Solid mounting of an 'x' brace between the lower links sounds like a recipe for stress failure.

How much travel are you planning to have? A long Panhard bar will suitably locate the axle w/o much issue. Many vehicles on air from this forum & in the real world use them successfully.

[dropd80s]

Originally Posted by SCOTI

Solid mounting of an 'x' brace between the lower links sounds like a recipe for stress failure.

X2 would not suggest welding it in like that.

[ccreddell]

Originally Posted by SCOTI

Solid mounting of an 'x' brace between the lower links sounds like a recipe for stress failure.

If clearances are not an issue, then this would be my next concern. Use heim joints or rubber bushings if you decide to go this way. And keep in mind you really only need one angled brace-two is over complicating things. The other thing to remember is that your rear wheels dont go up and down together like a swing arm on a bike, they move up and down independently, so the stiffer you make the assembly the more things it has to bend to achieve tire contact-which is what Scoti is referring to above. Also, the stiffer it is, the more it acts like a REALLY big sway bar and it will cause the rear end to swap on you without (much) provocation.

[gmclowsierra]

im going to mount my bags apporimatly 8 inches back on the bar. i have 2500# bags on the rear so im guessing 8 maybe 10 inches of travel. im not afraid of using the panhard rod im just looking for other ideas. basically im building the same kit as extensive metalworks just without the giant notch

[bedsled71]

track bar track bar track bar

[bedsled71]

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s....php?p=2640630



post # 47 and 49

[bedsled71]

before i did the back half i had a 2link from the stock hangers so it will work. just do the obvious and check clearance before welding the tabs with the driveshaft in and set at the right pinion angle