WHAT IS A TORQUE ROD?

A torque rod is a mechanical component used in suspension systems to control the movement of the axle and resist rotational forces, such as torque, that are generated during acceleration or deceleration.

FINDING THE BEST TORQUE RODS

The TRP^® All-Makes Torque Rods are designed to meet industry standards and survive any harsh road conditions. TRP^® Torque Rod assemblies are manufactured in the USA, utilizing advanced materials, forms, construction and fastening methods. They also incorporate multiple technologies to prevent “walk out” of the bushing.

WHY TRP^® TORQUE RODS?

• — Broad range of sizes to cover applications
• — Lighter than conventional construction, maximizing durability and quality
• — Bonded and curled ends available to eliminate bushing walkout.
• — Bonded versions available for maximum savings.
• — Significant cost advantage and 1 year no-hassle aftermarket warranty
• — Three different torque rod ends:
• Straddle-mount bushing
• Taper-mount busing
• Hollow-mount bushing

TRP^® Torque Rods are made with the highest quality materials and are covered by the standard TRP^® one-year no-hassle warranty. Check out this video for more information on TRP^® Torque Rods.

CHECKING MY TORQUE RODS

Torque rod inspection should be part of a vehicle’s routine inspection schedule. According to TMC Recommended Practice 1506 (RP1506), these inspections should happen at least once a month.

When performing these torque rod inspections, check the following:

• Inspect torque rod fasteners and torque rod bracket fasteners to ensure they are tightened to specification
• Visually inspect the torque rods for bends, cracks, or other damage
• Inspect the bushing looking for worn, torn, cut or walked out bushings
• Check the mounting locations for elongated holes, cracks, or other damage:

Damaged torque rods can result in one of the most severe Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Compliance Safety Accountability (CSA) violations, resulting in a 7-point penalty. Damaged torque rods must be replaced immediately.

SHOULD I REPLACE MY TORQUE RODS?

Continued use on damaged torque rods can lead to a variety of issues that can comprise your safety on the road. These issues include:

• Unstable steering, including shaking or swaying during lane changes and wandering when driving in a straight line
• Increased road noise and rattling
• Universal joint (U-joint) failure
• Driveline vibrations, also known as driveline whip:
• Loss of traction
• Excessive tire wear, especially feathering, cupping, and odd tread patterns
• 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

WHEN SHOULD TORQUE RODS BE REPLACED?

While there is not a prescribed mileage or date for replacement, routine visual inspection should tell you when a torque rod should be replaced. Replacement should occur when:

• The torque rod is bent
• There is more than 1/8 inch of movement in the rod end
• A bushing is cracked, has unequal exposure, is ruptured, or is otherwise damaged
• The mounting bolt hole is damaged: