Repro deck lid torque rods
 

I just bought a set of the repro deck lid torque rods from Ames, for my 70 TA. I made sure I ordered the right ones for a rear spoiler (FK386L, and FK386R).
I have them installed on the highest setting, and they will not keep the deck lid open 2 or 3 inches from the closed position, nor do they have enough strength to hold the decklid up in the fully open position if I place it there.

Has anyone successfully used these repro decklid torque rods on a 70 TA?

I will be calling Ames tomorrow.

Thanks for any feedback.

I used two of the heavier (thicker) rods with success.

So you just ordered two the repro thicker rods? do you know which part number is the thicker one?

Steve, were they individually labeled?

I don't know they were shipped directly to my body shop.

They were OER....ill have to check the parts number. I assume the ones you got were two different diameters..yes?

1. They CAN be installed backwards ( right on left side, etc), and trunk will not stay up.
2. Factory only used ONE stronger rod for 'spoiled" cars

I only used one rod. It was the thicker repo. Scary as hell to install but worked fine.

yup, sure is scary.... I would never think of installing one on a painted car... Im not that good, or strong I guess. !

Here's a pic of how they install. I made a tool to make the job easier -- and less dangerous.

I will check when I get back into town. Thanks for the info.

I called Ames and they told me the right hand rod is the thicker one. And he said you can not install two thicker ones as they don't make a thick rod in the left hand configuration.

Re did this a bit, and will add to the restoration thread..
http://forums.maxperformanceinc.com/...5&d=1452612587

This weekend when I get home I will check out which side I have the thick rod installed on. Thanks.

How about a pic of the tool?

I had a pic of one, but can't find it at the moment.

:o

Found the pic of tool!

:)

http://forums.maxperformanceinc.com/...1&d=1452630951


And a pic showing how to use it:
(shows X/A bodies, but would think the Fbirds about the same)

http://forums.maxperformanceinc.com/...1&d=1452630951

Can't be the same because of the configuration.

The one I made is very simple as it's something I'll rarely use. A bolt, a nut and a couple of washers welded together. I then used a socket, long extension and a ratchet to twist it into place.

The thicker rod controls the right hand hinge.

Nice!

So, this pic has the rods backwards?

http://forums.maxperformanceinc.com/...5&d=1452612587

:confused:

That depends on how they're looking at it. The thicker rod torques from the left side, but controls the right side hinge. The long end of the rod has a bend in it which makes sense to be upward when installed in the hook(s). I reinstalled mine this way and they work fine.

On my car, I just used a 3/8 extension and a deep socket as the tool to install the springs. I've used that for years on all cars.

I've used the same method. It works well.

Attachment 418392

Attachment 418393

Attachment 418394

I found out I had my torque rods on the wrong sides. I am going to swap them over. Thanks for the help and pics!

Update:

I had the toque rods installed opposite and backwards!

No wonder the decklid would not stay up! Installing in the correct orientation and position and now all i fine.

PS I used the the repro rod from Ames and had no issues once installed correctly.

455, In your pic#23, is that with the rods in the correct position or incorrect position? Thanks.

Those pics are showing the incorrect position. The ends of each rod should be angled up not down like in my pics.


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That is what I thought! I will flip it over and hopefully that will do the trick. Thanks again 455hota.

This guy is a bit slow, but gets the explanation done right.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLzzsyD-hek

Yes he is slow and thanks again.

I have to swap to the one thicker rod, can the rods be installed with the deck lid still on?



.

You have to remove the rear glass trim and the filler panel between the glass and the deck lid. I remember removing the deck lid too, but can't recall if I did it to protect it or if it was in the way, but by the time you pull the other parts it is only 4 more bolts. Get some shipping blankets to protect the body and the glass when removing and installing the rods. I use a deep socket on a long extension to manipulate the rods, takes some practice.

Excellent, thank you!

I will probably pop the deck lid, no biggie really, was just curious.

If I' going thru the trouble, wonder if I should replace the other rod too?


.

I replaced both rods and it didn't make much difference from my old rods. Trunk stays up only 4-5 inches. Very ****ty design.

Which slot is it in?


:confused:

It should be at rest at 4-5 inches.. should also stay all the way up, but barely..
Do not want springs that slam the lid up

Subscribed as I’m in the same boat. Painter says it won’t stay but I figured he had something incorrect… :-(