Need Advice

[c5fourj]

OK guys really need some advice. I've got about a year and a half ago I got 72in traction bars and they are now knocking like a mother. Heim joint ends. Truck definitely got a very harsh ride when i installed them. I like a stiffer ride but man it is stiff.
I got quoted new ends were $50 and to upgrade to a higher end rod joint required whole new bars because the thread is different. The price began to get close to the price of caltracs, so it got me thinking. I occasionally race my truck, if i tow its never more than 10,000 lbs and its mainly street driving. So I need the experts opinion, are caltracts a better alternative for what I do? Do they kill the ride quality and do they knock if adjusted correctly?
Any good help would be appreciated. Especially if what you say has reasoning behind it.
THANKS

 

[oscyjack]

In for responses

 

[c5fourj]

bump

 

[OregonDMAX]

For a regular traction bar you shouldn't preload them at all. With a good quality heim they should last year's. I've got close to 6 years on mine with no issues. Larger heim or rod end doesn't always mean better are the ones you have now the tractor style?

 

[c5fourj]

They are longhorn fab. If that answers your question.

 

[c5fourj]

Come on.... I know someone has the answers to at least one of my questions.

 

[OregonDMAX]

Caltracs are a little rougher because they use an aluminum bushing in one end, you wouldn't really want to run them loaded up. Raises at the track so they are going to be a little clanky. Yours now might ride rough because of length...

 

[c5fourj]

Ok thats the type of response i was exactly looking for! Thanks

 

[TheBac]

You simply remove the caltrac bars when you aren't racing. 4 bolts, done.
I would not recommend them for DD trucks in salt-in-winter areas, though. The front brackets rust to the eyelet bolt/pin.