How effective can the lower traction bars be with a rear axle bolted to the leaf springs? The reason I ask is that I know ladder bars are worthless unless you have a full floating rear end, to allow the axle movement (windup) to apply full force to the bars. So why would the traction bars on our trucks be any different? Won't the leaf springs act against, or at least limit the effectiveness of, the lower traction bars?

 

I think it helps out tremendously!

Reasoning that even slapper bars allow a little axle wrap, however they stop it from winding up and springing and repeating itself (resulting in wheel hop).

Ideally a coil suspension on the rear with 4 link would work best, but most of us won't pay the $$$ to convert so we do the best with what we have.

My Lift bars prevent ALL axle wrap. the energy that would have twisted the rear end is now transfered to the frame... (under the cab) actually lifting (pushing forward) on the frame. I was skeptical thinking they would simply flex. However when I got them i saw how solidly they were built and It would take tremendous pressure to get these to flex

 

It's simple geometry. The long tubes on the Lightning market right now move that instant center (fulcrum point) pretty far forward. And on a pickup truck that's a very good thing to do!

To find the instant center you'd have to layout all the attachment points and swing radii of each part.

Rich

 

Upper, lower, long, short, "traction bars," "lift bars," "slappers," pinion snubber, torque arm, whatever.

If the axle can't rotate and wind up the springs, the job is done. And all of the above will accomplish that job.

 

Thanks, Tim.