Rear Axle: Traction bar/parts for Twin Traction Rear Differential

[creegster]

I am installing a Dana 44 Twin Traction in my 59 Lark. Someone told me that there are some sort of traction bar-type-things that attach the differential to the frame, to prevent roll in the rear springs when taking off. Does anyone know what those are - and if they exist- where to get them? Part numbers would be greatly appreciated as well. Thank you

[Dwight FitzSimons]

"Someone" was probably referring to the traction bars that were fitted to Avantis, starting in 1963. Their purpose is to prevent (or reduce) axle windup when taking off fast. There is one on each side.

As to sources, you might contact Jon Myer in Ohio. Also, Stephen Allen's in Florida recently acquired a parts '63 Avanti. I suspect that there are other vendors who could provide the parts also.

--Dwight

[JayBird]

https://www.parts123.com/parts123/dyndetail.pta?catalog=0001003a&uKeY=AAHQB

[Dwight FitzSimons]

Oh, yeah, the traction bar requires a stamped-steel bracket welded onto the differential. There are (or were) reproductions made of these brackets. See the pic in response number 3 above.
--Dwight

[StudeRich]

You also have to Weld Brackets on the Frame, by removing the Body or cutting the Floor Open.

[StudeRich]

The Traction Bars have to come from a '63 or '64 Lark Type, they are only actually needed for "Performance Driving", such as Street Racing or Drag Strip Racing.

Of course they will help reduce wear on rear spring bushings and springs if you tend to do quite a few Stop Light "Competitions".

These were optional on Standard Larks and Standard equipment on R1, or R2 Super Larks, optional on Jet Thrust Avanti Powered ones.

Most Studebaker Vendors list them New.

[Mike Van Veghten]

As has sorta, incompletely said -

Two sets of sorta small brackets are welded to each side / top of the rear axle.
I don't recall the brackets on the frame... The frame brackets are attached near the front spring attachment point on the frame.
A bar is attached to each set of brackets on the axle. This bar is then attached to the brackets on the frame.

And yes, these basically aid in traction during hard launches . They keep the front of the leaf spring from "wrapping up" (turning into a big "S"), thus keeping the tire more firmly planted on the ground for more traction.
They will make the ride slightly more stiff, but most don't even notice it.

Mike

[Rafe Hollister]

Actually that big S that the springs do resembles the Studebaker 'S', so it may actually be better as it is.
I'm not signing this.

[Rafe Hollister]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but the aftermarket has several alternatives that do the same thing. They would be much easier to install and maybe cost less. See illustration below.
Rafe Hollister

[yeroldad]

Slapper bars.... I've seen the front of those take a dive to the ground, when slamming on the brakes. Hard lesson to learn to put the "u" bolts on. When they slam the ground, I've seen the frame-less cars get bent up.

[creegster]

Thanks everyone! Since my Lark is far from stock. I dont need to try to do some sort of "authentic" installation. Special thanks to Rafe Hollister for the extra info, I can work with this!