Posted by Gypsy Jim on January 15, 1999 at 20:48:48:
In Reply to: not stupid at all posted by N8 on January 15, 1999 at 20:16:57:
Besides, as N8 points out, traction bars prevent leaf spring wind up and prevent wheel hop, a "good" set of traction bars (with the J-bolt kits) also move the pivot point of the leaf spring forward. In doing so, traction bars convert more of the twisting action of the rear axle into front end lift of the vehicle. As a result, more weight is transfering to the rear of the car during acceleration. This is good in the fact that the more weight transfered to the back of the car the more traction you get, and the more traction you get, the faster your maverick goes.
when you accelerate you rear diff trys to roll upward (its that action=opposite reaction thing)
: when this happens your leaf springs recoil in the front and stretch in the rear, when there is enough energy stored in the front half of the spring it rebounds HARD causing you to lose traction for a moment and the whole process starts again, thus , wheel hop.
: traction bars transfer the energy of the rear diff rotating backwards to your frame and reduce the possibility of wheel hop. the same effect can be achived by putting clamps on the front half of your leafs (causing them to act like a semi-solid piece of steel) or extending the "snubber" that is located directly abouve the front of your rear gear housing.
: any type of modification done to increase you staight line acceleration is going to affect your "outta the corner" handeling as well.
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: : Im only 17 and I have started entering the world of Hot Rodding and car
: : parts. What do traction bars do?