What is a track bar on a Dodge Ram?

Definition of a Track Bar on a Dodge Ram
A track bar, also known as a Panhard bar or a track rod, is a suspension component found on vehicles with solid axles. It is designed to locate the axle laterally and prevent side-to-side movement. In the context of a Dodge Ram, the track bar is a crucial component that helps maintain proper axle alignment and stability, especially during cornering and off-road driving.
Purpose and Function
The track bar on a Dodge Ram serves several important functions:
1. Axle Alignment: The track bar helps keep the axle centered underneath the vehicle, ensuring proper alignment with the frame. This is important for maintaining stability and preventing excessive tire wear.
2. Steering Stability: By limiting lateral movement of the axle, the track bar helps improve steering stability and control. It reduces side-to-side sway and prevents the “death wobble,” a violent shaking of the front end that can occur at high speeds.
3. Off-Road Performance: A track bar is particularly important for off-road driving, as it helps maintain proper axle position and prevents the axle from shifting during uneven terrain or when navigating obstacles.
Aftermarket Track Bars
There are various aftermarket track bars available for Dodge Ram trucks, offering improved strength, adjustability, and performance. These aftermarket options are often used as replacements for the stock track bar or as upgrades for enhanced off-road capabilities.
Some notable aftermarket track bar brands for Dodge Ram trucks include:
– Synergy Manufacturing
– DT (DodgeTalk) track bar
– Carli Suspension
– Thuren Fabrication
– Pure Performance
– Moog
These aftermarket track bars are designed to provide increased strength, improved steering stability, and enhanced off-road performance. They may feature adjustable lengths, heavy-duty construction, and upgraded bushings for durability.
Cost and Installation
The cost of a track bar for a Dodge Ram can vary depending on the brand, quality, and where it is purchased. Aftermarket replacements from places like Napa or Advance Auto can range from $100 to $130, while higher-end aftermarket options like the DT bar can cost around twice that amount.
Installation of a track bar typically requires some mechanical knowledge and tools. It is recommended to consult the vehicle’s service manual or seek professional assistance for proper installation.
Please note that the information provided here is based on the search results available up until Tuesday, April 02, 2024, and may not include the most recent developments or product offerings.
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Where is the track bar located?

A track bar works by two attachment points – one found on the frame/body and the other on the adjacent side of an axle assembly. Those two attachment points are connected by a link which is the track bar. Track bars are designed to prevent unwanted lateral movement of your vehicle’s axle assemblies.

Do I need alignment after track bar?

For a lift with fixed control arms there is no need for an alignment after instal, if you install an adjustable track bar you are just centering the axle that you install it on, no need for an alignment either. You will need to recenter the steering wheel though. That’s done with the adjustment collar on the drag link.

What is a track bar?

A Panhard rod (also called Panhard bar, track bar, or track rod) is a suspension link that provides lateral location of the axle. Originally invented by the Panhard automobile company of France in the early twentieth century, this device has been widely used ever since.

What happens when track bar goes bad?

Wandering Steering
A worn track bar will make your steering wheel feel loose, causing your vehicle to dangerously wander on the road even if you didn’t mean to. This increases your risk of getting into a traffic accident, especially when driving in heavy traffic.

What does a track bar do for a truck?

Important for proper alignment and geometry, the track bar keeps the frame in line with the suspension and enables your vehicle to track straight. Most 4WD vehicles equipped with solid axles and coils come with front and/or rear track bars.

How do I know if my track bar ball joint is bad?

To confirm if this is the case, the track bar must be disconnected from the ball joint stud and the stud movement inspected. The stud should swing smoothly from left to right. If the stud catches, binds or quickly releases tension throughout its range of motion, the ball joint should be replaced.

How much does it cost to fix a track bar?

The average cost for a Track Bar Replacement is between $330 and $353. Labor costs are estimated between $85 and $108 while parts are typically priced around $245.

Does track bar affect steering?

Yes, the track bar controls the axle to frame relationship and when the axle moves it takes all the steering components with it except the pitman arm- that turns and moves the wheel- the centering sleeve is right at it and allows you to recenter the wheel.

What does adjusting the track bar do?

While most vehicles come from the factory with a fixed length track bar, when you lift a vehicle, the axle shifts to one side. An adjustable track bar allows you to recenter your Jeep’s axle. Learn when it is appropriate to replace the track bar.

How much does it cost to replace a track bar?

The average cost for a Track Bar Replacement is between $330 and $353.