Bogus on torsion bars ?

Just bought a 911T from 1970. It is my first Porsche after owning several other classics.

The rear ride height has to be adjusted as the cars sits to low at the rear (3 inches according to the Haynes manual).

I am told by a mechanic that with my car it is not possible to raise it any further as the torsion bars bend under pressure and would "jump out of their sockets".

I suspect this all is nonsense as the bars are guided and do not bend under pressure. The splines on both sides of the bars are "endless" and therefore any adjustment can be made provided that the bars are in good shape.

Am I correct and can I proceed adjusting the rear height?
Is there an end to the lifetime of the bars after 30 years of pressure ?

Many thanks from The Netherlands for the advise !


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Frank Imholz
1970 911T

Pull the bars... turn the adjusters and re-insert...

The only thing that would shorten the life of tosion bars is serious corrosion! Go ahead and proceed with disassembly and cleaning of spring plates and control arms. I would strongly recommend removing the torsion bars to inspect for corrosion. If all is well coat or recoat the bars with a heavy axle grease, and proceed with the adjustment.

And, NO, torsion bars don't have a time limit ... unless water and corrosion gets the best of them!

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Warren Hall
1973 911S Targa

Just a Quick tip. When you are checking rear ride height, have the front wheels off the ground and the car supported in front in the exact center. That way left and right will be even. Then drop it down and drive it around to let it settle. Now adjust the front to get things even. The rear suspension will settle Quite a bit after about 100 miles or so. Oh, here's a great tip I almost forgot about. Switch spring plates from left to right to even out the wear. They are interchangeable. This will put the bottom of the spring plate bushing onthe top and vice-versa. This works for all years with torsion bars. Even adjustable ones. This a time consuming job so leave yourself a week-end at least to finish it.
Good luck.