DIY trac bar, F53, need help!

[chucl66]

I plan to make a rear trac bar, for my 36',2000, 20,500# V10 Chassis,.
I have the brackets, need to buy center link. Do I need cat. 1 or 2, for enough tensile strength.
I have found some at tractor supply.
Any other suggestions where to buy, or how to make the bar?

Thanks, for all info. ready to proceed!!
Chuck,

[MustangGT]

I also made my own. USed ideas from OEMY's site. Just search this forum for that reference.
I went with Cat 1 from Tractor Supply. CAT 1 was the right length for my F53, which I believe is the critical consideration. I don't think the center link itself is having to work very hard. The critical part to me is the differential bolts. Change the short cheapee OE bolts that will secure the bracket to the suspension to longer Grade 8 (gold color). TS also sells those. Do use red Locktite on all the threads. I have about 3 dozen other custom DIY changes to my RV. I value that one improvement the most and it requires just about the least worries in the upkeep department. Indispensable if traveling on the windy plains or in heavy traffic with zooming semi's.

[chucl66]

Thanks to all!
I now have enough info. to proceed.
Chuck

[chucl66]

Thanks, Consumeratlarge, will use Locktite. Nice to know about the bushings.

Chuck

[consumeratlarge]

Be sure to Loctite the jam nut on the center link. I know that they loosen up with regular tractor usage when they have the built in adjusting lever unsecured,(which can be taken off, of course). Kudos for going for it! I wimped out and bought the Blue Ox one because time is tight to install it before next trip.

p.s. TSC has the bushings to bring the bolts down to cat 1 size, too, to give you a few more options.

[chucl66]

OK. It really is a lot less.

Chuck

[2bzy2c]

Sorry. No I really had no idea how expensive they were. I guess you are moving in the right direction.

[koda55]

I too made my own trac bar. Also got the cross member from Tractor Supply. Total price was 75 dollars.

[chucl66]

Thanks. Will Do.

Chuck

[rgatijnet1]

Remember to use the bigger pins/bolts for the Cat 2.

[chucl66]

Thanks, rgatijnet1. Will go with cat2.

chuck

[chucl66]

2bzy2c, the new bar from Henderson, would be $510.00.
I WILL HAVE LESS THAN $200.00.
That is using, Henderson brackets, $124.00, $40.00, for the bar.
Seems, worth it to me!

Chuck

[DUNEBUGGYDOUG]

2bzy2c, apparently you haven't priced one

[rgatijnet1]

The difference in price is only about $25. Go for the Cat 2.

[2bzy2c]

Really? Making your own bar? How much do they cost new? Is it really worth the effort?

I admire your effort, but question the cost effective result.