Torsion bar removal

[pdxrealtor]

I need to remove my keys.

I read I can use a BJ press/c-clamp or a 2 jaw puller. I don't really feel comfortable using the puller. Barely feel comfortable using the c-clamp from a BJ press kit.

However, should I go the C-clamp route what is the procedure?

Lift front of truck up so wheels are off the ground. Jack stands.

Use c-clamp to lift key up just far enough to remove key bolt and keeper?

Then lower key by releasing c-clamp pressure?

I've never worked on anything automotive with such safety hazards so I'm a little shy here.

Any tips and direction would be awesome. I don't want to F myself up doing this ...

[H2ummer]

You have the gist of it. Lift the tires off the ground, jack stands for safety. Take the pressure off the bolt, remove bolt and keeper, remove clamp.

I used the actual tool made for this and was able to use my impact wrench with it. YMMV using a C Clamp as most do allow you to put a wrench on them. The BJ clamp may work.
The hardest part for me was getting the torsion bar out of the key. Lots of penetrating oil and impact chisel to break them apart. I off road mine and they were stuck together pretty well. I think that may be the hardest part for you.

[pdxrealtor]

Thanks for your reply!

Got them out pretty easy and there didn't seem to be much load on them.

Once the keeper was out I took a sludge hammer and tapped the lower half of each key.....knocked them right off. Slid torsion bar forward and done deal.

[H2Much]

PDXrealtor, you swapping out the keys then?

[pdxrealtor]

Yes, possibly. Depends on what it looks like when I'm done. Might go right back to OEM.

[SummitUp]

C-clamp will work, but this will work a hell of a lot better!

OTC 7822A GM torsion Bar Unloading tool