Hey everyone, I'm trying to replace the torsion keys on my '03 f150 and I just can't get the torsion bar to slide forward so the key will come out. I removed the adjusting bolt that sets preload and spent an hour prying with a crow bar and trying to hammer it forward. I used PB Blaster too and it won't even budge. I guess with almost 150,000 miles it is pretty well rusted in there. Does anyone have any ideas? Should I just pay someone to do it?

 

Just so you know, you are making a huge mistake.
However, some heat may break them loose.

 

why are you replacing the torsion keys?

 

Just crank your torsion bars, no need to re-index the keys. Not sure that it matters but do you have the front of the truck off the ground?

 

Yes the truck was off the ground when I tried. I realize many people really don't like these kits but I have a friend who was a Ford mechanic for 7 years and said he has never had any problems with these kits. I talked to him about it and he also suggested using heat. Thanks everyone for the suggestions. If it's a bad idea I guess I will learn the hard way...

 

Even if you never have problems, its money you dont have to spend.

 

+1 on that

 

Oh it's just that I'm putting blocks in the back and I need a little more in the front than the stock keys will give me. I don't even need it to be level with the blocks in the back I don't mind the rake