The torsion bars on the front suspension of a Dodge Dakota act as the springs for the suspension. When the lower control arm goes up and down, it twists the torsion bar, which then rebounds like a regular spring. The torsion bars need to be removed when servicing the lower control arm, or when you want to adjust the suspension higher or lower. Removing the torsion bars can be done in a few hours, and is done best with compressed-air tools.
Raise up the Dakota using the jack and set the frame on four jack stands. Remove the two front tires using the tire iron and move them out of the work space.
Locate the torsion-bar cross-member in the middle of the truck, almost directly underneath the doors. Locate the torsion-bar adjusting bolt on the cross-member. Connect the air hose on the air compressor to the air impact wrench. Remove the torsion-bar adjusting bolt using the air impact wrench and impact sockets.
Pull the torsion bar towards the tailgate of the truck to free it from the lower control arm. Then pull the torsion bar towards the lower control arm but underneath it to free the bar from the torsion-bar key in the cross-member.
