TECHNICAL TIPS

Ford Bronco 4x4 Front End Shaking

Application: 80-88 Ford Broncos with track bar

Background: Some of the older Ford Broncos will develop a heavy front end vibration at speed.

By: Jim Berry, Director of Training

Problem: Some older 4x4 Broncos are equipped with a track bar (or drag bar) running from the frame to the axle housing with an eyehole bushing at each end. Due to age and miles, the rubber in the bushings breaks down losing its strength. (As you know, rubber bushings can break down internally with little visible indication on the outside.) The worn out bushings can move in and out causing a very bad vibration.

Solution: Replace the track bar with a new aftermarket track bar. Some aftermarket suspension companies make available a "hi-performance" type two-piece bushing, which will also fix this condition.

(Caution: Don’t try to use a one-piece bushing as they are extremely difficult to install without damaging the bushing.)

RDTSB/02/004
Issue Date:
October 15, 2002