H3 Alpha Questions

[Steve Sommer]

I want to lift the front of my V8 H3 to approximately level with the rear. (2"-3"?) Can this be done just using the torsion bars without sacrificing driveability? Are the longer shocks recommended by one of the suppliers necessary or am I going to be maxed out on suspension drop anyway? Does anyone have any experience with the "keys" that re-index the torsion bars? Are the torsion bars on the V8 the same as the 5 cyl? I know this seems kind of rapid fire but it is all related and I'm hoping someone jumps in here that's already been through all this and possibly save me some trouble. Thanks

[Bebe]

I want to lift the front of my V8 H3 to approximately level with the rear. (2"-3"?) Can this be done just using the torsion bars without sacrificing driveability?

Yes, typically it require 3-5 turns, the truck should ride fine. There are exceptions.

Are the longer shocks recommended by one of the suppliers necessary or am I going to be maxed out on suspension drop anyway?

No, the travel is sufficient for the stock adventure package shocks.

Does anyone have any experience with the "keys" that re-index the torsion bars?

What is your question RE: The Index Keys?

Are the torsion bars on the V8 the same as the 5 cyl?

No. The V-8 torsion bar spring rate is approximately 17% higher than the I-5.

However, SAW makes a 30% higher rate TB if you are planning on adding a winch.

I know this seems kind of rapid fire but it is all related and I'm hoping someone jumps in here that's already been through all this and possibly save me some trouble. Thanks

Saved...:D

[Steve Sommer]

Thanks for the info. My question regarding the index keys for the torsion bars would be " If I adjust the bars to get the rig level is it necessary or even advisable to re-index the torsion bars using the aftermarket keys." I've talked to 2 different suppliers, one told me it's a must to do this, the other told me the few sets they've sold they recieved negative feedback from the owners, one of them even removed the aftermarket keys after he bought them. It seems the Alpha has a larger diameter bar anyway so it's probably a moot point. I am interested in this SAW outfit though. If this rig pans out I will definitely be putting a winch on it. I'll google them but any info you could provide would be appreciated.

[Bebe]

Thanks for the info. My question regarding the index keys for the torsion bars would be " If I adjust the bars to get the rig level is it necessary or even advisable to re-index the torsion bars using the aftermarket keys." I've talked to 2 different suppliers, one told me it's a must to do this, the other told me the few sets they've sold they recieved negative feedback from the owners, one of them even removed the aftermarket keys after he bought them. It seems the Alpha has a larger diameter bar anyway so it's probably a moot point. I am interested in this SAW outfit though. If this rig pans out I will definitely be putting a winch on it. I'll google them but any info you could provide would be appreciated.

Re-indexed keys and the shock extenders can be purchased by companies like Truxxx, Ready Lift etc. (The shock extenders are unecessary as well)

None of the folks I wheel with use them. All you have to do is turn the bolts that increase the preload on the torsion bars. (Truxxx does have a good instuction sheet on their wesite) There is no known reason to use the re-indexed keys. It's a gimmick more than anything else.

The Sway A Way torsion bars can be purchased through Sam at SamCo Fab in Reno. He also has the Rod Hall Fox Shocks, designed for the H3 as well. I totally recommend them if you are adding weight to the front, like a armoured bumper or a winch....it will make a huge difference in travel comfort and off road performance.

After spending a day in my BF's 4runner yesterday driving about 40 miles on bumpy dirt roads, I missed my H3. :D ( I sacrificed my innards to the Toyota Gods, ugh!)

Don't bother with Rancho, their shocks suck hard in comparison. (not to mention I have a trash can in my garage filled with them).

Keep us up to date on the mods, can't wait to see how you like your Alpha.

[Steve Sommer]

As far as my progress on making any modifications goes, it will be a slow process as I'm getting ready to go out of the country for awhile so I won't spend any time with the Hummer until mid summer. Thanks again for the info.