The purpose of the front track bar is to locate the axle side to side in the vehicle. The track bar raises and lowers with the suspension movement in an arc that matches the arc of the drag link. In order to allow this movement, the ball joint on the frame end of the track bar fits into a socket and is held in place by a very tight spring. Compressing the spring with a set of pliers or a large pry bar allows the ball stud to move up and down vertically as it moves in and out of its socket. During normal operation of the vehicle there is no vertical pressure on the ball and socket so the ball stud stays firmly seated in the socket but is able to rotate as needed to follow the motion of the suspension. The only time a ball joint end on the drag link needs to be replaced is after many thousands of miles when wear in the socket allows the ball stud to move side-to-side when turning the steering wheel on a stationary vehicle.
May 10th, 2009 at 11:38 pm
Hi,
I am having some up and down play in the ball joint end of my adjustable front
trackbar. I was wondering if you had a part number for it’s replacement and maybe a DIY writeup… It’s on a 2004 TJ.
Thanks,
Dave
July 11th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Hi,
Have a ‘99 Cherokee Sport.Purchased it already lifted.6.5″ Rubicon Express Lift w/Tera Flex Lift.Have Death Wobble beyond belief.Garage said upper n lower ball joints are verrrry bad.Also said I need a new Trac-Bar as it has too much play in it.Finding an adjustable trac-bar that fits around here is like pulling teeth with a tooth pick.Do you carry it?Do I need a trac-bar or can the trac bar bushings & bolt/pin/? be replaced?Bar looks fine.Any help appreciated.I want my XJ back on the trails.Thanks.Joe
July 28th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
XJs are pretty rough on the track bar mounts and can flex the whole factory bracket. We have a new drop bracket and track bar that will work better then single shear drop bolt pin. As far as death wobble goes, the list can go on and on as whats wrong. Start with checking the suspension components any thing that is worn or loose can be a issue, if everything is good there go to a alignment shop that is familiar with lifted vehicles and knows the proper way to align your XJ. Always check tires if the are worn or cupped and the balance is off you will get death wobble.