What is the problem with Astro van torsion bars?

[peppy]

Does anyone know specifically the problems with the torsion bars on early year Astro vans? Im interested in knowing the precise problem that these torsion bars have.

Thank you!!!!

Peppy!

[snapple]

They would rust in the extensions that went from the back of the crossmember and fit over the end of the bars.The bars would crack & break inside of the extenders,at least on mine they did! I couldn't even see the break until I had the bar out.The newer bars are just shorter without the extenders.Mine was sitting in the driveway when we heard a loud crack or snapping noise!The front drivers side was almost sitting on the front tire after the bar broke! Luckily that didn't happen on vacation,which we were set to leave for in 2 more days!

[Moreforles]

similar situation on mine....fine on thursday when I parked it, friday morning, the right front looks like a lowrider...... looking for replacement parts today.... on thread for SAFARI TRIED TO ESCAPE.....

did you pay someone to fix yours during those two days, or do it yourself?

[snapple]

Actually I had to order them from Dan at Overland Vans. He has the best prices for the newer style torsion bars. Took a week to get, then I did the job myself. Hardest part of the job was removing the old rusted in bars! GM don't sell the old style. So to get just one of the older style,you'd need to find it at the junk yard. If you can,go with the newer style and replace both.

[blk lt awd]

question for you guys with older style bars that went to the newer style...been trying to get this answered for a bit.....

did you also have to upgrade to newer torsion keys or did the old one's work?

[Moreforles]

answered on other thread.... but new bars need new keys, got mine from Murray's and for $145 plus tas for each..... and came with new key (heard them called pork chops... because of shape)

if your old style ones are anything like mine, you'll have to burn them off and keys (if they would fit new bars) wouldn't be of much use anyway....

got one side done, and will get to the other soon....

My new ones where made in Mexico, but I've been told the originals were as well.... I hope new ones last as long or longer than the old ones......