Reusing stock 19mm torsion bars?

[fetus]

I want to switch from 21mm torsion bars back to stock 19mm torsion bars.
I see a lot of them for sale. Some rusted, some pitted. Should I be worried about future breakage?

[bkreigsr]

Should I be worried?
Yes.
Surface rust can be cleaned up and repainted.
Otherwise, deep pits and heavy rust will have compromised the integrity - stay clear.
Bill K

[tonythetarga]

Agree. Plus you need to know which side the t bar came from and install on same side. Torsioning against the grain will shear the bar for sure.

[bkreigsr]

Originally Posted by tonythetarga

Agree. Plus you need to know which side the t bar came from and install on same side. Torsioning against the grain will shear the bar for sure.

All the stock 19's are marked L/R at the factory.

[fetus]

Thanks for the help!!

[fetus]

I already have an offer on a pair of used 19mm torsion bars. My current 21mm torsion bars are for a 914-4, so they won’t fit a 911. I bought a pair of used 911 “A” arms just to support the 19mm torsion bars.
It might be a month before I get around to this project, so the 21mm torsion bars are not currently for sale.
I’m starting to get PM’s on future left over Parts...

[fetus]

Is there a big ride difference between 19mm torsion bars and 21mm torsion bars?

[bkreigsr]

Originally Posted by fetus

Is there a big ride difference between 19mm torsion bars and 21mm torsion bars?

Depends on what you've got going on with the rest of the suspension.
If the rest of your suspension is stock, and has xxx amount of miles on it, you will feel a big difference in ride quality.
If the suspension has been modified with bigger/stiffer goodies, the ride difference will be less noticeable, as it should already be kind of 'sporty'.
YMMV
Bill K