I'm back
I do not want to cause trouble, but I have a problem with the above description. If the torque input does not transfer to the other end of the bar, where did it go? The bar itself does not "use up" some of the torque. That would be saying that when you use a torque wrench with an extension, you are not getting the full torque to the fastener you are tightening. The torque that you input in the driveshaft is not all delivered to the pinion? The torque you input to the steering wheel doesn't all make it's way to the steering box?
If you do what is called a "free body diagram" of the sway bar, there are a total of 4 forces being input into the bar. The 2 links at the ends and your 2 mounting points. Nothing else. Neglecting the weight of the bar, when the car is level, with no preload, these four points are carrying the weight of the bar. At this point there is no bending moment induced in the bar. The moment we move one link up or down, the loading on the other points change. The free body analysis shows the direction and magnitude of each of the mounting points. It will also show that we are now generating a bending moment in the bar.
If one link is moved up, by a given force, either the other link has to resist the force an equal amount (equal length arms) or that end will just move up. no resistance, no moment. Put your torque wrench on a loose nut and turn the wrench. no resistance from the nut, no torque.
Now, there is one caveat in the previous description. The mounting points of the bar on the chassis. As the mounts are a rotating bearing as such, this point can generate friction, which will require a torque to overcome. It is at these 2 points where a percentage of torque can be lost. If this amount is more than a few percent, you have got a bound up bar.As
problemchild stated in post #45:
" but IMO, an external traditional ARB with very good bearing mounts, as used on most VFFs and CFFs may be the best performing ARB option. A bigger ID hollow ARB is best,
and reducing the stiction in the bearing mounts is most important."
My description assumes good bearing mounts.
Please note that I am not trying to "one up", "bash", taut my education, or years of experience. The biggest thing I learned in school eons ago was "I learned how to learn". I am always open to learning, but I prefer it be correct info
. That's my $0.02.
john f (john f boxhorn)