Torsion Bar questions Options

[Aaron Cox]

Bear with me: (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

• how long do torsion bars last?
• I want stiffer than stock Tbars up front- what size is ~ equal to 140 lb rears?
• I have a 911 front suspension to go in, so i can run used 911 torsion bars?
• Is this a good idea?
• What were the stock sizes for 911/914's?
• thats it for now?

Thanks (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

[Eric_Shea]

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Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm depends on the treatment they get. Others say they lose their zip after a while but I've never done a back-to-back same size comparison to see if that's correct. Usually it's "rust" that kills them. Water and condensation can build up rust 1/4" thick on the inside of the t-bar tube. The bars can rub their protective coating off and "snap". Look for this and use your judgement as you guide as to whether or not you'll want to use that a-arm.

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Teeners have 17mm. 911's have 19mm so you're getting that immediate advantage right out of the gate. They're commonly replaced so you can usually find 19's out there for shipping as there's virtually no demand for them. Your 911 front end should have them in there already but make sure they're not scarred or rusty. This is where it becomes a personal preference; I'm not a huge bar fan. I think there's a place for them but when a 73 RS can handle like it does with a 19mm t-bar... auhhhhhhhhhh, I start thinking that the $200 could go towards driving lessons and get me a shit load better return on investment (could Vic Elford or Brian Redman kick my ass in a stock 914 vs. one with 21mm bars? Smart money would not be on me...) Also, I think that a 17mm bar with a 90lb spring is what was stock. A 19mm bar with a 140lb spring might be a good start. Moreover... make sure you have a decent sway-bar up front. I'm using a factory through body bar from a 76 930 (18mm factory). Someone said the metalergy in these bars is better (I have no idea) and they equal aftermarket bars of larger diameter... (can't prove a single bit of it myself). Others will weigh in on the t-bar thing. I'm sure there's advantages of having bigger bars... in the end that would be your choice for your car.

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Yup... in fact, you'll have to. Splines are different from 914 to 911.

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No... it's a necessity (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

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19mm and 17mm respectively (list, correct me if I be wrong on this)

Hope that helps...