Caltrac install tips

Akdiesel

IFS Hater
Aug 23, 2009
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I may end up pulling my overload not entirely sure yet...guess I'll have the leaf packs out haha it wouldn't hurt to do it while I'm there
 

Akdiesel

IFS Hater
Aug 23, 2009
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Going to start this in a few...should I pull both sides at the same time and work on them or pull/complete one side then work on the other?
 

JD4440

<< Lo-Carb Monster
Feb 27, 2009
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Orlinda, TN
I need to call Calvert tomorrow and see about getting mine shortened. I can't adjust them in far enough to sled pull :mad:
 

TheBac

Why do I keep doing this?
Staff member
Apr 19, 2008
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You guys need to wedge open the spring eye with a screwdriver or chisel so the bushings can be pounded out easier. Also, lightly lube the sides of the aluminum spacer with antisieze before install.

You dont need a press, just patience. It doesnt take long to install them with a sledge and a socket. Maybe an hour or so tops, for both sides.


Chris, I had the same problem with my bars once I took the overload out. It "shortens" the springpack, so the bars are now 1", maybe 1-1/4" too long and they have very little adjustment, if any. Probably have to call Calvert and ask them if they can make shorter bars, and if they would be willing to trade the parts out.
 
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JD4440

<< Lo-Carb Monster
Feb 27, 2009
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Orlinda, TN
About 30"
Tom, I called and talked to Matt @ Calvert. He said to disconnect the bars and measure at ride height and then fully compressed for my deal. There was only an inch difference in length. I still need to call him back but he said at the most it would be an inch too long.
 

TheBac

Why do I keep doing this?
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Apr 19, 2008
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Im thinking the 1/2ton bars themselves will probably be what we should've used. If Matt's open to swapping the bars for a small price, let me know.
 

TheBac

Why do I keep doing this?
Staff member
Apr 19, 2008
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Yes. Its not like Calvert knew we were pulling leaves out. If I put my overloads back on, they'd be perfect.
 

TheBac

Why do I keep doing this?
Staff member
Apr 19, 2008
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Standard 2500HD rear springpack, minus the overload. I think Chris is doing the same thing.

I put about 3/4 turn on the bars after the pivot touched the spring. IIRC, I had the bars set in the middle hole on the pivot, too.
 

TheBac

Why do I keep doing this?
Staff member
Apr 19, 2008
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I just twisted/tightened the bar with my hands. Didnt need a wrench.

I did notice that the jam nuts seem to be interfered with at both ends and you cant rotate them.
 
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JD4440

<< Lo-Carb Monster
Feb 27, 2009
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Orlinda, TN
I was wondering if you could run w/o the jam nuts but the heims are a bit loose in the rod when unloaded. Not sure how the nuts contribute to the rigidity of the setup :confused:
 

TheBac

Why do I keep doing this?
Staff member
Apr 19, 2008
15,599
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Mid Michigan
Id imagine the bars would want to back themselves out under stress and you'd lose adjustment. The jam nuts would stop that from happening.

Chris, if you and I had bars 1" shorter, it would solve all our odd issues.
 
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