torsion bar adjustment problem - help

[andycook]

Hi

Tried to crank torsion bars, to lift front end slightly.
Unfortunately, when I try and turn the adjustment bolt, the 1/2 moon shaped spacer thing between the end of the bolt and frame trys to turn, it seems to be seized to the bolt. I tried clamping this with a stilson wrench whilst turning the bolt, but things kept slipping. Then things did move slightly, the botl thread was moving OK within the top locknut,

anymore experienced this before and have a solution?
thanks
Andrew

[marky]

Ensure your wheels are off the floor, It makes it easier to turn.

[andycook]

thanks Marky
yes - the front was up on jack-stands,
However
I could turn the bolt, it was just that the spacer gizmo thing (arrowed on attached jpg pic) - was trying to turn with the adjusting bolt. Becuase of its shape, it meant it was trying to twist down and out, from the position it should stay held in - suggesting that the adjusting bolt had seized to this thing - and it was nigh on impossible to keep this thing still whilst turning the adjusting bolt,
so cant adjust crank up the torsion bars

[marky]

Check this out mate http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/tech/torsion_bars/ It should enlighten you

[andycook]

yep - it tells me the 'thing' sticking to adjusting bolt is called a "half moon spacer" - so i know what to swear at now...

[marky]

It doesnt quite show what i expected, as it doesnt really inform you how to raise the front end.

[andycook]

its ok - ive seen another link with good info about the procedure,
but nothing mentions the half-moon spacer turning with the adjusting bolt,
so ive got some hassle with this thing and wondering if anyone else has come across this,
guess it may mean i need to get new bolt and nut

[marky]

STIMPY Darren is doing mine next week so if you can wait i'll tell you.

[laser_jock99]

Suggest you spray soak the entire assembly with penetrating oil (WD40) a few days prior to trying to adjust. A couple of days driving round might get some oil into the stuck parts.

Remember when using WD40 or similar penetrating oils is that they will completely dry out in a week or two and so should NEVER be used as lubricants. Once free you should strip down the parts and apply a proper grease like copper Molyslip or similar antisieze compound. This will make any job much easier next time round. Remember parts on the bottom of 4WD cars receive more mud, drenchings and general abuse than other cars so regular use of correct greases and lubricant is important.

Nevillef