Lift a solid-axle Jeep and the front axle wants to shift sideways.
That's because the fixed-length factory track bar now sits at a steeper angle and effectively shortens the distance from frame to axle on one side. The symptoms are a left-or-right shifted axle, an off-center steering wheel, and steering quirks that can snowball into bump steer or even death wobble.
An adjustable track bar lets you re-center the axle at your new ride height so your steering geometry stays happy.
The Featured Part
Synergy Mfg Adjustable Front Track Bar for TJ, LJ, XJ, ZJ, MJ is a factory-style replacement that bolts into the tapered frame bracket and uses a heavy-duty axle-side bolt. The kit includes hardware, a double-adjuster sleeve you can turn on the vehicle, and an axle-side gusset if you want extra reinforcement. It's built for common lift heights and daily abuse on or off road.
How To Adjust It Properly
- Install and prep. Bolt the frame-side end first, then the axle side with the supplied hardware. If you choose to weld the included axle gusset, clean the bracket surface, weld, and paint before final assembly.
- Put the Jeep on its tires. Set the full vehicle weight on the ground and bounce the front a few times to settle bushings.
- Center the axle. Hold the steering wheel straight. Use a 1-1/4 inch wrench on the adjuster sleeve. Turning counter-clockwise extends the bar. Measure tire-to-fender on both sides or use a plumb-bob off the frame to the knuckle center. Adjust until both sides match and the axle is visually centered.
- Lock it down. Tighten the adjuster pinch bolt to 80 ft-lb. Verify the sleeve will not rotate. If it still moves, increase torque slightly but stay below 90 ft-lb.
- Center the steering wheel. Use your drag link adjuster to bring the wheel back to center after the axle is centered.
- Final checks. Cycle the steering lock-to-lock and compress the suspension to check clearance to the diff cover, coil springs, and frame-side bracket. Grease serviceable ends lightly.
Fitment and Install Notes
- The factory frame bracket is tapered for the track bar stud. The axle-side mount uses a straight bolt.
- Some installs require drilling the axle-side bracket to 9/16 inch for the heavy-duty fastener. Use a sharp bit and cutting fluid.
- Torque all suspension hardware with the Jeep at ride height to avoid bushing preload.
When You Absolutely Need One
- After any suspension lift or significant spring change
- If one tire rubs at full stuff but the other does not
- Steering wheel off-center after an alignment
- Skittish steering on broken pavement or after big hits
Shop Track Bars and Related Parts
Related Brands
We also carry adjustable track bars for Jeeps from these brands:
- JKS Manufacturing — JK and JL front bars, JL rear bars, plus TJ/LJ rear options.
- TeraFlex — HD forged adjustable front track bars for JK and related platforms.
- Rock Krawler — JL adjustable rear track bars and more.
- Synergy Mfg — our featured TJ/LJ/XJ/ZJ/MJ front adjustable track bar.
Tools You’ll Want On Hand
- 1-1/4 inch wrench or large adjustable wrench for the sleeve
- Standard metric and SAE socket set with torque wrench to at least 100 ft-lb
- Drill and 9/16 inch metal-cutting bit
- Grease gun and chassis grease
- Tape measure or plumb-bob
- Welder, grinder, and PPE if installing the gusset
- Floor jack and stands rated for the vehicle
Safety Notes
- Wear eye and ear protection when drilling or grinding. Use proper welding PPE if welding the gusset.
- Support the Jeep securely on stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
- Re-check fastener torque after the first 100 miles and after any hard trail day.
- If you're unsure about welding or steering alignment, consult a qualified shop.
