jsk68

Just found out about this last week (new to Ford 4x4's) and it bugged the hell out of me, wtf was Ford thinking.
after looking at a diagram it finally made sense, the longer beam has the differential housed in it therefore it weighs more, longer beam = more leverage to compensate for weight.

I searched around and read some whacked theories but nobody seemed to know....maybe Ford engineers know what they're doing after all... (more like working within their budget)

I feel better now.

hmmm maybe it's actually so the spring rate would be the same....damn my head hurts now. lol

dan2286

I think you are over thinking things.

The engine is in the way of the diff being able to be centered. The output of the transfer case is also offset, so the diff needs to be also.

I think most trucks use an offset front differential, but I could be wrong.

Just call me Sean

iTrader: (1)

The vans have unequal length I-beams, not the trucks.

jsk68

you sure about that?
http://www.fourwheeler.com/how-to/su.../photo-07.html

pirate4x4offroad has a few fabricators trying to make an equal length set up.


and as far as over thinking I'm definitely guilty of that but you have to account for the extra unsprung weight somehow either heavier springs/shocks or geometry, it makes sense if you think about it.

Just call me Sean

iTrader: (1)

Yep. What is the purpose of that link? It doesn't say anything about the length of the traction beams.

jsk68

you sure you know what I'm talking about? you can clearly see one mount is nearly in the middle of the frame and the other is offset to the passenger side. and thats a bronc not a van the same as 4x4 f150's

dan2286

I may have misunderstood. I was thinking axle lengths. Never paid attention to arm lengths.

You still have the issue of more weight being on one side for most 4x4s. They still use the same shocks/springs on both sides.

jsk68

true but it's different when it's independent suspension, it would slow the rebound rate of the heavy side which wouldn't be good. this whole thread is based on the fact I googled around trying to get info on TTB then landed in a site where they were trying to explain the logic behind the different lengths (which made no damn sense at all)

some good info if you pick through it.

School me on TTB axle set-ups - Pirate4x4.Com : 4x4 and Off-Road Forum

Equal vs. Unequal Length Arms - Pirate4x4.Com : 4x4 and Off-Road Forum

Just call me Sean

iTrader: (1)

Are YOU sure you know what you're talking about?

Looks can be deceiving.

jsk68

rofl....whatever you don't know what TTB is...google is your friend.

prove me wrong smart guy.

just a heads up I've owned fords since the 80's I know wtf twin I beam suspension is, the 2wd versions are equal length.... always have been.