I just installed a new set of JLP traction bars tonight, but I feel that I may have a few problems with the result. My truck has the Belltech 3/4 drop on it, so I figured I may have some clearance issues. However, I have seen a number of people on this board that run the same or similar bars with the same drop.

Upon mounting the bars, I have found that I have VERY LITTLE room between the passenger side bar and my exhaust. The exhaust is stock, and I have moved it as far up as I can get it in the opening. Still, I only have about one inch max clearance for the piping. I have also found that the c-clamps rub on the bar when the axle moves laterally.

I am trying to pull the exhaust tips further out to prevent the clamps from rubbing, but the tips will not budge. Does anyone have suggestions for getting these things loose. The clamps are loose, but the tips are stuck. In addition, has anyone else had clearance problems with these bars with this drop kit. Maybe this will be my excuse to get an aftermarket exhaust, but I don't see that helping the situation all that much more.

Oh yeah, I do believe that I put the front brackets on backwards, but I will fix that later.

 

Believe it or not...try just running the drivers side one. I have run just one for about 20000 miles.

AW

 

NO NO NO NO NO!!! Do NOT run just one.




I have a GF 1" / 3" w/a spintech and mine clears by 3"

WOT

 

Take your clamps and rotate them away from the bar that should stop them from making contact......JL

 

Don't worry, I won't try running just one. I did manage to pull the clamps back away from the bar, and I bent the tabs that hold the clamps in place towards the outside. This should get rid of the lateral rubbing issue, but I am still concerned about the .5 inch travel I have left with the factory exhaust in the way.

Do the aftermarket pipes come down from the top more to provide better clearance? The stock appear to come straight over horizontally, so they are really getting in the way.

Oh, and by the way, this is a beautiful product, and it is a shame it is hidden below the truck.

 

If you notice the stock exhaust pipes kinda step down a bit. My spintechs are just horizontal w/no step down.

WOT

 

the brackets are on correctly in the photo

 

My front brackets are installed like yours........and my Bassani clears with no problem

 

I just assumed that my brackets were backwards, because it would net me another .25-.5 inch clearance to the ground if they were on switched around. Seeing that I hit both of them coming in the driveway, I will probably be doing what ever I can for more clearance.

 

The only thing I hit was the read connection jumping a curb.......LOL not on purpose, but jumped just the same