Failed to mention heim joints make a lot of noise when they become dry so you have to clean and lubricate often.The Johnny Joint,you just grease every oil change......
Hi, I'd like to get yours and everyone's opinion on a possible rear suspension modification (especially if you have had any experience with 2 to 5 ton trucks, 2wd or 4wd). This question is for a '69 one rear axle 2.5 ton 4x4 truck, leaf sprung. I once saw where someone was using shackles at both ends of the leaf spring and a torque bar connected under the spring pack. The frame end of the torque rod used a pin so the torque bar could move up and down but allow no lateral axle movement. And the axle end of the torque bar used a heim joint. This would allow the axle to rotate/twist if one side was going over a rock and the other side was not going over a rock, for example. The idea was to maintain the full load carrying capacity of the truck but allow for more axle movement on and off road and when loaded or unloaded. In addition to better axle movement, the person claimed it also afforded a much better ride loaded or unloaded both on or off road without putting a stress on anything as compared to when a rear axle is locked in place by leaf springs that only give at the one shackle. I hope I explained it ok. Everyone's comments would be appreciated. I am converting my 2.5 ton truck to 4wd and I'm considering this modification for my truck's rear suspension.
I have a WJ. I have long arms with Heim joints. Work well but I’m developing a little play with only 2500 miles on them. I have greased them each day when wheeling and they never go more than 300 miles without grease.
Wondering if Heim is a good option. Heard it wears out much faster than the urethane bushings, and I'm not sure how it would perform with harsh canadian winters... Also, it is metal on metal, so what do they mean that I would 'feel' it more? Is that bad?
