Torque rod movement, how much?

rbtsmpsn · Post by **rbtsmpsn** » 23 Jan 2012, 10:39

I searched here and found a few posts with "torque rod" in them. But, none of the ones I read really answered my question. Sorry if I simply overlooked a post answering my question.

How much movement should there be when you rock the torque rod whith your hands? I get a lot of movement from the bushings on each end and the one in the center as well. I would assume there should be pretty tight.

Thanks

otis44 · Post by **otis44** » 23 Jan 2012, 11:49

Can't really help you on the end bushings, although I do think they will/should have more play than the upper mount. On the upper mount, I just replaced one on a car that had 45k. The old bushing had all kinds of slop and there was noticeable vibration at the steering wheel. The new mount had no play and eliminated any vibration we were feeling.

rbtsmpsn · Post by **rbtsmpsn** » 23 Jan 2012, 12:19

My mount is like that, "sloppy". I think I'm going to order new torque rod mounts with bushing and a new upper mount.

Thanks for the input.

Post by **JRL** » 23 Jan 2012, 12:51

It should be pretty hard to move when stationary but even with a brand new bushing, if you stand outside the car and someone brake torques the motor, that engine will move "forward" at least two inches!

Post by **fazool** » 23 Jan 2012, 13:20

I presume you mean the upper torque stabilizer? The horizontal bar that connects to the upper engine mount?

My 2001 S60 (142k) had a sloppy torque stabilizer. I replaced the upper engine mount bushing. My 2007S60 (63K) is still pretty snug. So I guess I can compare three vintages of these (0, lightly and heavily worn).

The proper "feel" seems to be:

I am able to firmly grasp the bar with two hands and roll it forward and backward about 15 degrees each way.

Its also helpful to check the "feel" of its play side to side and sliding back and forth. It should roll a little as I described but it should not slide more than 1/4" either way.

This is not an official spec. This is just what "feels" right on the ones I've looked at.

Post by **JRL** » 23 Jan 2012, 13:37

Are you referring to the upper torque bushing or the horizontal X bar?
The X bar has a lot of slop in it
You can buy two small bushings to make that solid if desired (it does help the front end feel)

rbtsmpsn · Post by **rbtsmpsn** » 23 Jan 2012, 15:22

Yes, I'm talking about that bar in the engine compartment. I've seen it called several things. I don't know the correct part name.

I was just cleaning the engine and noticed how loose it was when I was wiping it down.

If there is too much play, what would I feel when driving. Or, better, what noticable improvement would gain by servicing it?

Thanks again. Great site.

Post by **JRL** » 23 Jan 2012, 15:38

Supposed to be pretty loose
There is no "servicing it"
Either you install poly bushings or leave it, but this is the way it comes from the factory for smoothness.

rbtsmpsn · Post by **rbtsmpsn** » 23 Jan 2012, 16:30

New bushings was what I meant when I said " servicing". I might give the poly bushings a shot.

Post by **JRL** » 23 Jan 2012, 17:41

IPD has them for about $50
A 10 minute install