Panhard Rod

Hi Truckster

Put in a set of XJS shocks and springs. I needed a little more lift in the rear so it sits better when loaded so I also got some 30mm spacers put it.

Do you think the spacers could have an effect?

Damien,
You didn't really answer Truckster question....the new springs (and shocks)....how much higher does it sit now as opposed to where it sat before you had them fitted? The more you lift it (whether with springs or spacers), the more exaggerated the offset will be. Up to about 3 inches lift should not need an adjustable panhard rod. My Patrol has 5" springs in the back (but it only sits about 3" higher cos of all the weight I've got in my lard-@rse) and it is okay without any change to Panhard.
If you add spacers, the off-set will be futher exaggerated.

Basically if you have lifted say 3-4inches with springs+ the spacers, you will have moved it enough to have moved the diff off center.

also try www.lcool.org

Its weird because I've only received about 50mm lift but that was all I was after anyway.

Maybe the 50mm then 30mm spacer did cause to go off centre.

So roughly 3inches, which shouldnt really affect it that much - wheres Dozer when ya need him... COME ON ANDREW!

Have you looked for any sign of damage or a bend in the current panhard rod?

No. Nil damage Truckster. Do you reckon the local Bob Jane or similar could help me out?

You probably could use a place like Truck Align, where in aussie are you?
or find some sand, thats smooth, and drive across it, see if front and rear wheels track in same marks :) Im cheap sometimes ;)

Cheap is good. I'm being a bit tight myself as we are heading up to the Cape in April.

I'm in Sydney.

Why does a lift put the rear diff off centre?

Rob

Rob,
Rear end of Patrols and Cruisers work on the system known as "5 link"...meaning there are 5 points that connect the axle housing to the rest of the vehicle to locate it in the correct position. 4 of these are the upper and lower trailing arms (2 on either side)....they have the job of holding the axle in position instead of it twisting under the torque applied by the drive train. The 5th link is known as the panhard rod.
This is situated behind the axle and one end is connected to the chassis, whilst the other is on the opposite side's axle. It's job is to stop the axle from moving side to side...it holds it in it's correct transverse position.

Now, if/when you lift the truck, the effective centre of the axle is moved closer to the side where the chassis mount is located. Try to imagine for a moment, what would happen if you disconnected the shockers, brake hoses, drive shaft etc and slowly lifted the whole rear of the vehicle, with the axle only being held in place by the panhard rod......the axle/wheels would stay on the ground, but the distance (perpendicular) between the 2 mounting points would reduce significantly and the wheels would be VERY out of alignment.

the diff is put off centre because the panhard is connected to one side of the diff and the other end is connected to the chasis approx inline with the other end of the diff. So when you lift the chasis.... are easier with a pic

diff

Leroy

AAHH, Now I understand, thanks very much Roachie & Leroy.
So an adjustable panhard rod would bring it back to centre..yes.
How would this then affect the alignment of the rear springs, top to bottom?

Rob
(I've had a 2" lift installed recently and noticed the rear axle out of alignment on the Patrol)

adjustable panhards are threaded so you can adjust them until the diff is centred.
the alignment of the springs would be out. ie the spring mounts on the chasis and diff wouldn't line up, if you put in taller springs. I have OME 2" which is probably closer to 3" but all looks ok from behind.

Leroy

Whiteline adjustable panhards will set you back $250-300 each.

But Im not convinced that a 2inch lift will move it that far. I had 3inch on the GQ with no problems.

Thanks 120scruiser.

I'll drop into Heasman on Saturday.