Torsion Bar

[Simon Peck]

Dear All,

For models with torsion bar suspension; how do the ‘O’ rings affect movement of the axles? I have found ‘O’ rings fit so tightly that pushing axles into place past them has dislodged the brass bushings that were Loctited into place. Are they absolutely necessary?

Also, with the adjustable suspension system, am I right in thinking that to adjust the suspension it is necessary to strip off all of the road wheels? Has anyone found this system works satisfactorily without also clamping down on the torsion bar fixed end from inside the hull?

Thanks in advance!

[Adrian Harris]

The o-rings are there to stop water from seeping into the suspension bars and corroding the suspension shaft.

If you can push out the brass bushes, then the Loctite didn't take properly. If it's glued correctly, it takes a fair amount of heat to remove them.

It's my understanding that most of the clamping force is provided by the screw in the fixed end, as that is a high tensile screw going into a steel part. The screws in the suspension bars are only acting on an aluminium thread, so cannot take the same amount of pressure without the risk of tearing out the thread. I doubt you can gain access to the fixed end screws with the wheels in place, unless you can find a very short necked allan key.

Adrian.

[Simon Peck]

Hi Adrian,

Thanks, reference torsion bar fixed end, the earlier type was clamped from inside only, using Helicoil reinforced thread. I assumed the steel screw behind the wheels was insufficient as it still requires clamping from inside the hull.

The ‘O’ rings I find such a tight fit that even if I can fit the suspension shaft through them, they greatly restrict movement. I wonder if possible to get same size but smaller cross sectional thickness ‘O’ rings?

Thanks again,

Simon