Can You Adjust Torsion Axles?
You can adjust the torsion axle if it's misaligned with the car's frame or chassis. This will ensure safety by maintaining the vehicle and better driving performance. However, we'd suggest leaving this job to an experienced mechanic.
When to Adjust the Torsion Axles?
Adjusting the torsion axles is quite a crucial task in vehicle repair. Below, you'll find some of the signs indicating torsion axles need adjusting.
Uneven Tires
The tires should each have similar distances from the fenders, or the wheels' external frames. This is what you'd refer to as tire alignment. You can sometimes feel the tires' unevenness as you drive. However, it's best to measure each tire's distance to identify which side needs an adjustment.
Some car owners often confuse misaligned tires with those that lack air. So, first, ensure that the tires have enough air before you consider torsion axle adjustment. Refer to the steps below:
- Park on a flat surface.
- Check the tires' air pressures with a gauge by inserting the gauge's nozzle into the valve stem.
- Wait for the gauge to display the pressure level. Refer to the tire or your owner's manual to check if the PSI is sufficient.
- Add air if needed based on the tire and/or vehicle manufacturer's recommended PSI.
- Repeat for each tire.
Get a tire pressure gauge on Amazon.
Now, use a leveling tool and a tape measure to see if all tires are aligned with each other. You can also use a camber gauge to identify misalignment. Simply follow the tool's instructions.
If it turns out that the tires are uneven, consult a mechanic to adjust the torsion axles or do it yourself if capable. We'll share a simple breakdown of the torsion adjustment steps below!
Too High on One Spot
If your car is too high on one spot, it's possible that the torsion axles need adjusting. You'll notice the tires look "heavier" or weighted down on one side. But before adjusting, you'll also want to check the frame or chassis for possible misalignment. If your car was in an accident, it might have deformed the chassis. You'll need to bring the car to a mechanic if this is the issue.
How to Adjust Torsion Axles
- Find a good place to park on a level, flat surface.
- Measure the gap between each tire and the fender. This will help you determine which side of the vehicle needs adjustment.
- Take a look beneath the vehicle to identify the control arm running lengthwise from the middle. You should find the torsion bar perpendicular to the control arm.
- Now, get the metal jack to lift the vehicle a bit and access the torsion bar. Lay a drop cloth or cardboard piece to lie on for a cleaner, more comfortable workspace.
- Locate the torsion bar bolt beneath the vehicle. You should loosen the bolts with a wrench.
- Turn the bolt clockwise to raise the vehicle's height, while turning counterclockwise will lower it.
- You should check the gap between the tire and the rim to see if the adjustment is enough for the vehicle.
- Remove the metal jack, then repeat the adjustment steps on the other side of the vehicle. This is to ensure proper alignment of the torsion bar on all sides.
- Once again, measure the gap between the tires and the fender.
- Adjust the tires that still don't meet the proper alignment.
- Test the vehicle by driving it a short distance. This is to ensure that the adjustment is successful.
- Consult a mechanic if the issue isn't fixed.
Torsion Axle Vs. Spring Axle
Not all car models have a torsion axle, as some of such models use a spring axle. It's good to distinguish them from one another. Let's compare.
Appearance
A torsion axle is composed of rubber cords supporting the functions of the shock absorber and suspension by means of compression. While a spring axle uses leaf springs stacked together to hold the vehicle's weight.
In spring axle, there's an equalizer to distribute and balance the weight. On the other hand, a torsion axle makes the vehicle's frame more stable by allowing independent support from the wheels.
Maintenance
A torsion axle is more difficult to replace, as it can wear out faster. So, it's more convenient for some manufacturers to install a spring axle instead. However, the durability of the two will depend on the driving habits and proper vehicle use.
What Is a Shock Absorber?
A shock absorber or "shocks" is a part of the vehicle that minimizes impact to minimize damage to the vehicle's suspension system, such as the torsion axle. The shocks also facilitate keeping the vehicle on the road.
For instance, instead of flipping your car due to a sudden sharp curve or large bump, the shock absorber will retain the motion to keep the tires on the ground.
Torsion axles and shock absorbers often work together depending on the car's model. That's why you might want to check shocks if it has something seems misaligned of the torsion axles. A broken shock absorber can have a direct effect on the nearby car parts.
Can You Drive When the Torsion Axle is Broken?
Technically, it's still possible to drive when the torsion axle breaks. But it's not recommended to do so. Maybe if you're trying to reach a short distance, but driving with a broken axle can cause an accident. You could lose control of the vehicle, because it would now have difficulty turning and balancing.
Can You Lubricate the Torsion Axle?
Yes, you can apply a lubricant to the torsion axle when it feels stiff and hard to turn. You can consider a water-resistant grease or lubricant for the axles. However, you don't want to overapply lubricant to prevent rusting.
How Long Can a Torsion Axle Last?
Most axles can last between 15 and 20 years or longer. You'll want to check the manufacturing date and assess your car's condition.
For instance, you frequently drive on a muddy road. The mud can get hard and get stuck on the components, including the axles. Such an event can shorten the life of the vehicle.
Is the Torsion Axle warranted?
This will strictly depend on the agreement between you and the manufacturer. But most of the time, a torsion axle can be part of a warranty considering that it's a manufacturer defect. However, the warranty is on a case-to-case basis.
You'll want to read the user manual for more accurate coverage of the car's warranty. Also, normal wear and tear of the car are not covered under the warranty of most manufacturers. So, you will want to give specific details in case an accident causes the torsion axle to break.
What Is the Misalignment Detection Technology?
It's a type of system with advanced technology, in which you can identify the car's misalignment faster than the manual one. It uses a laser to figure out which tires, or any part of the car, is in the wrong position.
This technology can tell you the height of each tire without you measuring them, as well as show some suggestions to improve your driving experience. However, this technology is limited to some manufacturers only.
Conclusion
Learning together is just unstoppable! With this article, we learned if we can adjust the torsion axle and what things to consider. We then realized important matters about its purpose, as well as its connection with the car's components. Be mindful of safety when you drive.
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