Removing Torsion Bars - Cutting Them

[koenig911]

I need to remove my torsion bars to do a coilover conversion, however my body kit does not have provisions to allow me to remove the bars.

Can the stock torsion bars be cut some how? I realize I will be destroying them.

Another possiblity is to use the coilovers in conjunction with the stock bar like factory did in early race cars to achieve higher spring rates.

The stock 26mm bar is equivalent to 171lb/in and I want to end up with 450lb/in - add spring with about 250lb/in.

However, how do you adjust the rear height with the torsion bar and coilover setup? Do you first lower using the torsion bar splines then use coilovers for fine adjustments?

[mjc76]

Most people go with a 935 suspension when they go to coilovers.
You also know that you will have to weld in a full cage when you go to coilovers. The stock shock towers can not cope with the stress of a coilover suspension. Smart Racing and TRG both sell these setups. They are not cheap.

[dbanazek]

I just cut some pesky ones that were stuck to my spring plates with a torch. I imagine it would take a long time but you could do it with a hacksaw or a sawzall. You would have to cut it in several pieces.

A friend of mine has an article on reinforcing the stock body to accept coilovers. I have not seen it yet. I think it was in something like European Car a few months ago.

[mjc76]

I think I misunderstood your first post on getting the bars out of the car. It would take a long time to cut the bars with a hack saw. I would get a Porta-Band Milwaukee tools makes one. They make quick work of even the toughest metal.

[koenig911]

I think I am going to leave stock bars in and supplement them with the coilovers. I will also reinforce the top of the mount.

[Paul Thomas]

You can cut the bars out very easily with a dremel. they make a larger diameter wheel than comes with the kit. you might go through a few but it worked well for me. feel free to email.

[cds72911]

If you have access to one a heavy duty plasma cutter would work. The one at my father's shop cuts up to 1" steel. An oxy acetylene torch would work too but you would probably warp stuff like crazy with all that heat.

Charlie

[Clark Griswald]

Is the offending body panel a bolt on such that it can be removed to gain access to the Tbar? If no, maybe it would be sensible to cut access holes in the panel like the factory did.