The suspension system in your truck serves various crucial functions. First and foremost, it keeps the wheels safely on the road by maximizing contact between the road's surface and the tires. It also absorbs excess shock and softens the impact caused by dips, bumps, cracks, and more. That said, for a suspension system to work seamlessly, it needs several unique components, torque arms among them. A torque arm is simply a device that facilitates torque transfer and improves your truck's overall performance.

Read on to discover more about torque arms, including must-know signs of a malfunctioning torque arm.  

Trucks have suspension systems designed to hold them up and keep the axles in place. They also facilitate independent movement between a vehicle's axles and its tires. A standard truck suspension system has various unique components, including axles, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, and torque arms.

Each component in a truck's suspension system serves a particular function. For instance, axles connect wheels to the body, and bushings absorb vibrations. Truck suspension systems also rely on torque arms, which are mechanical devices attached between the chassis and rear axle.

A torque arm's primary roles include controlling torque and rotational forces. It acts as a reaction arm and transmits rotation force from the axle to the chassis or frame. The device also allows the truck to maintain optimum load distribution, braking performance, and stability.

Signs of a Malfunctioning Torque Arm

Identifying a malfunctioning torque arm is often easy. Most times, all you need to do is look for the following tell-tale signs:

• Visible Cracks, dents, or bends
• Unusual or excessive tire wear 
• Strange thumping sounds when accelerating, decelerating, or going around curves
• A crabbing or dog-tracking trailer
• Unstable steering, wandering and swaying
• Suspension misalignment and axle hop
• Bushing deformation or extrusion 

Don't ignore any of the issues outlined above because a faulty torque arm can encourage many unsafe behaviors. These include increased body roll, reduced stability, and compromised traction, especially during cornering and acceleration. A damaged component can also undermine ride quality through increased noise and vibrations.

Inspection and Evaluation

The best way to identify a malfunctioning torque arm is through visual inspection. That means doing the following:

Check for Loose or Worn-Out Mounting Points and Bushings

Mounting points in a suspension system ensure the torque arm is securely attached to the chassis or other components. On the other hand, bushings dampen vibrations, reduce noise, and provide cushioning. Since mounting points and bushings serve crucial roles, torque arms may malfunction if these components come loose or wear out. Keep an eye out for such issues.

Examine Alignment

Functional torque arms maintain proper alignment angles and suspension geometry in a vehicle. So, if yours has a faulty or damaged torque arm, you will likely notice a misalignment of the differential or rear axle.

Analyze Your Vehicle's Behavior During Acceleration, Braking, and Cornering

A vehicle with a malfunctioning torque arm may exhibit numerous strange behaviors during acceleration, braking, and cornering. For instance, a faulty device may force your truck to squat as it picks up speed. And, when breaking, you may notice excessive nose-diving and longer stopping distances.

Additionally, while driving around a corner, a vehicle with a faulty torque arm will likely lean excessively to one side.

Maintenance and Care

According to expert advice, you should let mechanics check your truck's suspension components whenever you go for wheel alignment. And depending on how often you use your vehicle and for what purposes, you should seek wheel alignment services every 15,000-30,000 miles.

If a malfunctioning, damaged, or worn-out torque arm is identified during an inspection, seek a replacement. That is the best way to eliminate issues like compromised handling, uncomfortable rides, and excessive nose diving.

Also, note that regular maintenance enhances torque functionality. So, conduct frequent inspections, tighten loose components, and lubricate all moving parts.  

Cush Suspensions Offers High Quality Suspension Maintenance

If your truck has a damaged or faulty torque arm, replace it immediately. Use the tell-tale signs introduced in this article to identify this issue. Most importantly, prioritize regular inspections and maintenance to stave off premature deterioration.

Does your truck need suspension solutions? Contact Cush Suspensions right away. We offer top-quality products like mechanical and air ride suspension systems. And our specialists are always ready to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to hearing from you.