Suspension Radius Rods

[gus]

While greasing my 4104 steering linkage and box I was stunned to see that the top radius rod bushing mount was missing one of two bolts on the axle end and the remaining bolt was only finger tight! Greasing this area is a miserable, hot messy job and I almost didn't do it.

This radius rod keeps the front axle in the proper upright position so, needless to say, it would have ruined the whole day if it came loose on the Interstate.

These are Grade 8, 3/4" x 1 5/8" cap screws which are drilled head and supposed to be safety wired.

I think I'll give the complete radius rod system a good inspection before my next trip!

[gmbusguy1]

Gus, If you do not like the safety wire another way to secure the radius rod bolts is with a french lock. Basically a thin metal plate with 2 holes in it and you just bend the corners over the head of the bolts

and I always use anti-seize on these bolts so they will come out later

Chris 

[skolbibp]

If you need them IBP has the radius rod bushings available in polyurethane.  Call me at 1-800-468-5287 x232 or email skolb@ibpindustries.com .  We also have some of the lock plates.

Steve

[gus]

Thanks. The bushings are new which explains why the safety wire was left off.

I found two more without wire which will be wired very soon.

[skolbibp]

Good thing you were doing some PM work!

[gus]

Yeah, as miserably hot as it was, and as dirty and greasy as the job was, it sure paid off this time. It was only a matter of a few more miles before that one remaining short 1 5/8" bolt fell out.

The main reason I did it was because the steering was getting a bit stiff and I am leaving on a 1200 mi trip Sat.

[skolbibp]

I hope you have a safe and pleasant journey!!