Getting To Know Your Suspension - Torque Rods

The Importance Of Torque Rods

If you've been researching the suspension system on your semi-truck, then it's likely you've come across the system's torque rods. If so, then you've arrived at the perfect place. In order to provide you with a little more knowledge on the topic of torque rods, our experts have put together the following article for you to read through. Read on to learn more about the importance of the torque rod in your suspension system.

What is a Torque Rod?

Not only do torque rods control the wheel movement of your rig, they also serve several additional purposes. The torque rod has a multi-functional role in your commercial vehicle's suspension system. They control the driveline angles of the vehicle and restrain rotation of the axle housing while accelerating and braking. The torque rod is also designed to locate the axle and maintain alignment while absorbing leaning and cornering forces. Without a proper working torque rod, you will experience unstable steering, which can include shaking or swaying during lane changes.

Main Torque Rod Components

While torque rods may be comprised of only a few components, each of them works together to keep your vehicle stable on the road. It is a rod or a shaft with a bushing on each end. There are three types of bushings for you to choose from, hollow, tapered, and straddle. When you're replacing your torque rods, you'll want to check which type of bushing you have on each end and find a torque rod that has the same combination. That way, you can be sure that your semi-truck is running the way it was originally intended.

How to Quickly Measure Your Torque Rods

If you are in need of replacement torque rods for your semi-truck you will want to make sure you measure them properly before ordering any aftermarket parts. Here are a few simple steps you can take to make sure you accurately measure your torque rods.

1. Measure center to center of your bushings
2. Identify bushing type for each end
3. Check mounting angels and how they are aligned to the torque rod shaft
4. Measure the shaft diameter

Inspecting Your Torque Rods

Inspecting your torque rods should be part of your vehicle's regular inspection schedule. According to TMC Recommended Practice 1506 (RP1506), you should inspect the torque rods on your semi-truck at least one time a month.

Make sure to take the following steps when checking your torque rods:

• Look at the torque rod fasteners and torque rod bracket fasteners and be sure they are tight.
• Look for bends, cracks, or other damage to the torque rod.
• Look for worn, torn, cut, or walked out bushings.
• Look at the mounting locations for holes, cracks, or other damage.

Why replace Damaged Torque Rods?

Not only can damaged torque rods result in one of the most severe Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Compliance Safety Accountability (CSA) violations, which will give you a 7-point penalty, they can also create instability when you're driving.

If not taken care of properly, damaged torque rods can lead to costly issues including:

• Thumping when decelerating or going around turns
• Increased road noise and rattling
• Universal joint (U-joint) failure
• Driveline whip
• Loss of traction
• Excessive tire wear
• Cracks in the frame or suspension brackets
• Excessive suspension bushing wear and premature failure
• Axle housing fatigue
• Air spring fatigue and premature failure
• Transmission and differential seal leaks

Like with any of the components in your heavy-duty truck, making sure you replace your torque rods when they are failing is an important step in both assuring you stay on the road and helping to avoid more costly repairs in the future.

Read More About Your Suspension System

Now that you know a little bit more about the torque rods in your semi-truck's suspension system, you can feel free to read more about the rest of the components that keep your vehicle stable when you're on the road. Continue on with our series of articles on suspensions by clicking on any of the links below.

• Getting To Know Your Suspension System
• Getting To Know Your Suspension: Shock Absorbers
• Getting To Know Your Suspension: Shocks vs. Struts
• Getting To Know Your Suspension: Leaf Springs
• Getting To Know Your Suspension: U-Bolts
• Getting To Know Your Suspension: Bushings
• Getting To Know Your Suspension: Stabilizers

Shop Torque Rods Now!

If you are looking for a replacement torque rod for your semi-truck, then we have the right parts for you. Take a look at our massive online inventory for a full offering of torque rods from Hendrickson, Dayton, Meritor, Match Made and all of your favorite manufacturers.