Hey All!
My question is: Is it absolutely necessary to use a torsion bar unloading tool when replacing lower control arms?

I downloaded a (23 Page) Step-by-Step instructions PDF for replacing lower control arms for my exact 2000 Silverado LS 1500 4x4 5.3 Vortec DIRECTLY from this forum. NOT ONCE does it mention using a torsion bar removal (unloading) tool. It does say to loosen the torsion key adjusting bolt but do not remove then you use a floor jack to lift up on the lower control arm to loosen the lower shock mount bolt/nut. You need to relieve the pressure of the arms hanging down and shock fully extended. It seems once that pressure is relieved from the jack lifting up on the lower control arm the torsion bar comes out. Obviously, if your trying to remove the torsion bar with all the weight from the front end hanging down (tires and rims off) because the Truck is on jack stands and shocks are fully extended, of course you will fight this process. Does this sound reasonable?

 

Welcome to the forum. You need to post your question in the Silverado section of the forum or you will get more views. This is the Welcome New Members section.

 

I am having trouble finding that. I was lucky to post this.

 

Go to the top of this page and in the upper left corner where it says Chevrolet Forums, hover over the word Forums and you will get a drop down menu. There you can pick Current Trucks and click on that. That will take you to a page with the current Chevrolet trucks.