Looking for a 79 Bronco track bar? Here's what you need to know:
- Purpose: A track bar stabilizes the axle and prevents unnecessary side-to-side movement, crucial for maintaining precise handling and steering.
- Adjustability: Offers the flexibility to fine-tune your vehicle's alignment, accommodating for modifications like lifts or different front-end accessories.
- Material: Upgrade to durable 4130 DOM Chromoly for strength and reliability.
- Components: Essential parts include the track bar, urethane bushings, and adjustable rod ends.
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for the 1978-1979 Ford Bronco and 1976-1979 Ford F150 models.
If you've ever driven a '79 Bronco over rugged terrain, you know how vital a robust and adjustable track bar is to manage the suspension and steering systems effectively. From its ability to refine handling to resolving steering issues, it plays a key role in elevating your ride's performance.
I'm Robert Resz, owner and enthusiast behind Rad Bronco Parts. Having pushed my own Bronco to its limits, I understand just how crucial finding quality track bars specifically crafted for the 79 Bronco can be. Join me as we explore track bars and reinvigorate the spirit of your classic ride.
Understanding the Role of a Track Bar
The track bar is a critical component in your 79 Bronco's suspension system. It acts as both a locating and stabilizing link between the axle housing and the frame. This connection is essential for maintaining proper alignment and stability, especially when driving off-road or on uneven surfaces.
Locating and Stabilizing Link
Think of the track bar as the backbone of your suspension. It keeps the axle housing aligned with the frame, preventing it from moving side to side. This alignment is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's stability and ensuring a smooth ride. Without a properly functioning track bar, your Bronco's axle could drift, leading to a host of steering issues.
Axle Housing and Frame
The axle housing holds the axle and differential, which are key components for transferring power to the wheels. The frame, on the other hand, is the vehicle's main structural support. The track bar connects these two, ensuring they move in harmony. When the vehicle is lifted, the track bar may need to be adjusted or replaced to prevent binding and maintain this connection.
Steering Issues
A poorly functioning track bar can lead to serious steering problems. You might experience "roll and yaw," where the vehicle feels like it's swaying or tilting. This can also cause "steering wheel kick," where the steering wheel jerks unexpectedly. These issues not only make driving uncomfortable but can also be dangerous.
A well-maintained track bar helps prevent these problems by keeping the axle housing and frame in sync. This ensures that your steering is responsive and precise, even in challenging conditions.
By understanding the role of the track bar, you can appreciate its importance in keeping your 79 Bronco running smoothly. Upgrading to a high-quality, adjustable track bar can significantly improve your vehicle's handling and stability, making your off-road trips safer and more enjoyable.
Benefits of Upgrading Your 79 Bronco Track Bar
Upgrading your 79 Bronco track bar can transform your driving experience. Let's explore the key benefits:
Strength
A stronger track bar means better durability and reliability. The 4140 Chromoly Adjustable Track Bar is crafted from 4130 DOM Chromoly, known for its high strength and toughness. This material ensures that the track bar can withstand the rigors of off-road driving and heavy-duty use. With a robust track bar, you won't have to worry about it bending or breaking under pressure.
Adjustability
An adjustable track bar allows you to fine-tune your Bronco's suspension. This feature is crucial for those who have customized their vehicles with different lift kits or accessories like winches and heavy bumpers. The ability to adjust from 36 to 39 inches ensures that you can center your axle perfectly, regardless of the modifications made to your Bronco.
Flexibility
Flexibility in your suspension setup is important for tackling various terrains. An adjustable track bar provides this flexibility, allowing for incremental adjustments. This means you can easily adapt your vehicle for both on-road comfort and off-road trips.
Improved Handling
One of the most significant benefits is improved handling. A high-quality track bar keeps your axle aligned, reducing unwanted movements. This alignment translates to better control and stability, especially when navigating challenging terrains. Drivers have reported that upgrading to a better track bar has markedly improved their Bronco's handling.
Death Wobble
The dreaded "death wobble" is a severe shaking of the front end that can occur at certain speeds. It is often caused by loose or worn-out suspension components. A sturdy, well-adjusted track bar is key to preventing this issue. By maintaining a tight connection between the axle and frame, the upgraded track bar helps eliminate the conditions that lead to the death wobble.
In summary, upgrading your 79 Bronco track bar not only boosts your vehicle's strength and adjustability but also improves its handling and stability. This makes your driving experience safer and more enjoyable, whether you're cruising on highways or conquering rugged trails.
Choosing the Right Adjustable Track Bar for Your 79 Bronco
Selecting the right 79 Bronco track bar is crucial for achieving optimal performance and stability. Here's what to consider:
Adjustability
When it comes to adjustable track bars, adjustability is a key feature. The ability to adjust the length from 36 to 39 inches allows for precise centering of your Bronco's axle. This flexibility is especially important if you've added lift kits, winches, or heavier bumpers, which can alter your vehicle's suspension dynamics.
DOM Chromoly Construction
The material of your track bar matters. The 4140 Chromoly Adjustable Track Bar is made from 4130 DOM (Drawn Over Mandrel) Chromoly, which is renowned for its strength and durability. This type of steel is designed to withstand heavy loads and the stress of off-road trips, ensuring your track bar remains reliable in all conditions.
Urethane Bushings
Urethane bushings are included in high-quality track bars for a reason. They provide a more stable connection between your track bar and the vehicle, reducing noise and vibration. Urethane is also more durable than rubber, offering a longer lifespan and better performance over time.
Fine Thread for Incremental Adjustability
A fine thread design allows for incremental adjustability, providing more precise control over your suspension setup. The 7/8" fine thread used in the 4140 Chromoly Adjustable Track Bar ensures strength and allows for small, precise adjustments. This feature is essential for dialing in the perfect ride quality and handling characteristics.
Incremental Adjustability
Having the ability to make incremental adjustments is vital for customizing your Bronco's performance. Whether you're tweaking your setup for off-road challenges or everyday driving, incremental adjustability ensures that your vehicle's suspension is fine-tuned to your specific needs.
With these features in mind, choosing the right adjustable track bar means investing in a component that improves your Bronco's performance and reliability. This ensures that your vehicle is ready for anything, from daily commutes to rugged off-road trails.
Installation Tips for Your 79 Bronco Track Bar
Installing a 79 Bronco track bar can seem daunting, but with the right approach, it's straightforward. Here are some key tips to ensure a smooth installation:
Identify the Mounting Points
First, locate the mounting points on your Bronco. The track bar connects the axle housing to the frame. It's crucial to ensure these points are clean and free from rust. A wire brush can be helpful for cleaning the surfaces before installation.
Check for Suspension Lift
If your Bronco has a suspension lift, you may need to make additional adjustments. A lifted suspension can alter the angle and alignment of your track bar. Ensure your adjustable track bar is set to accommodate the lift, allowing the axle to remain centered under the frame.
Crossmember Modification
In some cases, you might need to modify the crossmember for a proper fit. This is especially true if other aftermarket parts are installed. Use a grinder carefully to make any necessary modifications. Always measure twice and cut once to avoid mistakes.
Use Quality Hardware
When securing the track bar, use high-grade bolts and locking nuts. This ensures a firm hold and prevents loosening over time. It's a good idea to use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
Align the Track Bar
Once installed, check the alignment. The track bar should be parallel to the axle and frame. Misalignment can lead to handling issues, so make any necessary adjustments. A 79 Bronco track bar should not interfere with other components like the steering linkage.
Test the Setup
After installation, take your Bronco for a test drive. Pay attention to how it handles, especially during turns and over bumps. If you notice any wobble or drift, recheck the track bar's alignment and mounting points.
By following these tips, you ensure your 79 Bronco track bar is installed correctly, providing improved stability and handling. This sets the stage for a smoother, more controlled ride, whether you're off-roading or cruising down the highway.
Frequently Asked Questions about 79 Bronco Track Bars
What will a bad track bar do?
A bad track bar can cause several issues with your 79 Bronco. One of the most common problems is steering wheel wandering. This happens when the track bar fails to keep the axle properly aligned with the frame, leading to a loose feeling in the steering. You might find yourself constantly adjusting the wheel to keep the vehicle straight.
Another issue is loose steering, where the steering feels unstable and less responsive. This can make your Bronco difficult to control, especially at higher speeds or on rough terrain.
Does track bar affect steering?
Yes, the track bar plays a crucial role in your Bronco's steering system. It helps prevent bump steer, which occurs when the suspension moves up and down, causing the steering wheel to move side to side. A misaligned or worn-out track bar can lead to steering wobble, where the steering wheel shakes or vibrates, often referred to as the "death wobble" by off-road enthusiasts.
Ensuring your track bar is in good condition and properly adjusted can significantly improve your Bronco's steering performance and safety.
What does a rear track bar do?
The rear track bar is essential for maintaining side-to-side movement control of the axle. It connects the rear axle to the frame, preventing unwanted lateral shifts. This is crucial for maintaining vehicle stability, especially when cornering or driving on uneven surfaces.
Without a properly functioning rear track bar, your Bronco may feel unstable, with the rear end swaying or shifting unexpectedly. This can lead to an uncomfortable ride and potentially dangerous driving conditions.
By addressing these common track bar issues, you can ensure your 79 Bronco remains stable and handles well, both on and off the road.
Conclusion
At Rad Bronco Parts, we understand the passion Bronco enthusiasts have for their vehicles. That's why we focus on providing high-quality parts that ensure a perfect fit for your Ford Bronco. Our commitment to quality means you can trust our products to improve your Bronco's performance and reliability.
When it comes to upgrading your 79 Bronco track bar, we offer precisely engineered solutions that are crafted to meet the demands of both everyday driving and off-road trips. Our track bars are designed using durable materials like DOM Chromoly and come with features like urethane bushings for improved flexibility and strength.
Choosing the right track bar is crucial for improving your Bronco's handling and stability. With our adjustable track bars, you can fine-tune your vehicle's suspension to suit your specific needs, reducing issues like steering wobble and improving overall ride quality.
Whether you're looking to replace a worn-out part or upgrade for better performance, we have the parts you need to keep your Bronco running smoothly. Explore our 2024 Bronco Parts Catalog to find the perfect fit for your Bronco.
Invest in quality. Choose Rad Bronco Parts for all your Bronco suspension needs.