? about torsion keys

GMSea97 · May 28, 2006

I have read alot about people lifting there trucks with just torsion keys. Would some one be so kind to explain the concept and how it works. I want to try this on my 97 z71, it seems like a cost effective lift. What keys should I look for and are there any good sources to get them?

silveradoHO · May 29, 2006

Chevy 4x4's use torsion bars instead of coil springs in the front. These bars attach to torsion bar keys, which have an ajusting screw on them. The more you turn these screws, the more pressure it puts on the bars and the higher your front end goes. You can replace these keys with some from ReadyLift and this will give you more adjustment than the stock ones. All you need is a 7 ton gear puller, wrenches, and about 30 minutes. I just put some on my truck. You can also use some ford keys, but I'm not sure of the part number. Kit cost $220.

GMSea97 · May 29, 2006

What kind of ford keys would I use for this...I remember when I was in high school we cranked the torsion bars up on a chevy I had, as far as they would go, but it rode like crap then. If you went over a piece of paper on the road you felt it. Do the new key have like a nipple or something bulging off to give you lift but not the harshness associated with cranking the bars up.

silveradoHO · May 30, 2006

Here is the Ford key part number:

XL3Z5B328CA

Order them from here:http://www.fordpartsonline.com/

I would have used these except I didn't know about them when I bought mine from readylift. My front end is about 2 1/2 inches taller, but still rides the same. Ford keys should work the same.

mattro · May 30, 2006

Here is the Ford key part number:
XL3Z5B328CA

Order them from here:http://www.fordpartsonline.com/

I would have used these except I didn't know about them when I bought mine from readylift. My front end is about 2 1/2 inches taller, but still rides the same. Ford keys should work the same.

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will this part number work on a '99 silverado nbs? do i just order one? thanks in advance

silveradoHO · May 30, 2006

As far as I know they should. You can order them online or get them at a ford dealerships.

GatorFan · May 31, 2006

I put these Ford keys on my 2000 Sierra and it lifted it about 2". It was very easy to install these. I do recommend you go and get a front end alignment as soon as you finish. I didn't so I had to replace my right front hub bearing assembly (lesson learned). Get an alignment after you bolt everything up! Other than that, you can get your front end lifted pretty cheap by these keys. The ride will be a little stiffer but I think it was worth it.

Good luck.

mattro · June 1, 2006

ok cool thanks for the info im gonna roll up to a ford dealership in my silverado as soon as i get a chance. I dont have the puller so im gonna see how much at a shop. shouldnt be to outrageous if it takes 30 mins

mattro · June 1, 2006

ive asked this question before but no one responded can i put blocks in the back of my '99 nbs 4x4 or do blocks only work on 2x4

Wingnut · June 1, 2006

Should be able to...I'd rather just add-a-leaf myself (to lift the rear)

Just remember, you're going to need longer shocks to restore lost downtravel when you lift it...Even if you only lift it 2".

mattro · June 1, 2006

im going to level it out sometime this month in the front. Then maybe use leafs or blocks or both combined im not sure down the road a month or so. Oh thanks for the idea of the leafs it does seem better than just some blocks. im pretty sure my and my brother in law can do the rear lift

MaXX_8 · June 21, 2006

im going to level it out sometime this month in the front. Then maybe use leafs or blocks or both combined im not sure down the road a month or so. Oh thanks for the idea of the leafs it does seem better than just some blocks. im pretty sure my and my brother in law can do the rear lift

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I bought my kit from www.offroadunlimited.com it comes with 2 or 4 shocks and the keys. Just tell them what year and model of truck you have. I would call them on the phone and talk with someone about. I have some pics if you would like to see them send me a PM.

Jeff

Blue2500CC · July 5, 2006

I have been toying w/ the ford keys idea myself. My ? is what is the better/best brand add a leaf for the rear. I have got a topper & that along w/ towing trailers, my rear is starting to sag. Over 100,000 mi.

Also any shock suggestions would be great to.

Thank you for the info.

Chris