Maybe I should post in SCCAForums, but I don't have membership there and I'm too lazy to sign up.

Anyways...I recently acquired a 240SX. MacPherson strut front suspension, with multi-link rear. There's a set of rods, known as the tension rods, that basically connects the lower control arms to the subframe. Here's my question. They make aftermarket replacement rods available that are length adjustable, which will effectively adjust your caster. They also have pillowball mounts, replacing the old bushing with a solid metal mount

Here's a picture of the rod I'm describing:



Its the rod that the bushing #1 fits into.

Quoting moutons.org:

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Suspension bushings may be replaced with bushings of any materials (except metal) as long as they fit in the original location. Offset bushings may be used. In a replacement bushing the amount of metal relative to the amount of non-metallic material may not be increased. This does not authorize a change in type of bushing (for example ball and socket replacing a cylindrical bushing), or use of a bushing with an angled hole whose direction differs from that of the original bushing. If the Stock bushing accommodated multi-axis motion via compliance of the component material(s), the replacement bushing may not be changed to accomodate such motion via a change in bushing type, for example to a spherical bearing or similar component involving internal moving parts. Pins or keys may be used to prevent the rotation of alternate bushings, but may serve no other purpose than that of retaining the bushing in the desired position. </TD></TR></TABLE>

But then it states:

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Addition or replacement of suspension stabilizers (linkage connecting axle or De Dion to the chassis which controls lateral suspension location) is permitted. Traction bars or torque arms may be added or replaced. A Panhard rod may be added or replaced. Methods of attachment and attachment points are unrestricted. </TD></TR></TABLE>

Does such a bar fall under a "traction bar" or "torque arm"? Thanks in advance.

 

If I'm not mistaken, the "tension rod" is equivalent to the radius rods aka traction bars seen on many Hondas, which seems to be OK according to the second paragraph. The pillow mount isn't legal though.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Does such a bar fall under a "traction bar" or "torque arm"? Thanks in advance.
</TD></TR></TABLE>

No, it is not a "traction" bar. You second quote pretty much desribes linkages that are attached to the drive axle.

Everyone I know gets rid of the stock fluid filled bushings and runs polyurethane.

Scott

 

Oh, forgot to mention. Its RWD.

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by GSpeedR &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">The pillow mount isn't legal though. </TD></TR></TABLE>

The rules say I can add or replace any existing arms. And it states, "Methods of attachment and attachment points are unrestricted. " So if they are in fact classified as traction bars, doesn't that statement make anything legal?

 

Moutons is not current with the 2004 rules. The traction bar/stabilizer allowance has been clarified to only apply to live axle cars. Yours does not qualify. The only applicable allowance would be the bushing allowance. Arms must be original and bushings can be any material except metal. So, no replacement arms and no pillowballs.

--Andy