Rear suspension 5th linkage.

[Jt2El46]

I searched for this but came up with nothing, so please forgive if it's a repost.

Question is has anyone removed the 5th link on the rear suspension? What issues have you had if any?

I have been replacing the dampeners on my truck. After replacing the rear shocks I noticed I needed rear springs. So, I'm in there getting ready to pull the springs and I'm like why is the there old rail to rail right to left 5th link on a 4 link rear suspension? All it does is cause a left right sway when you hit a large bump at speed.

 

[csp]

The panhard bar, which is the 5th link you're referring to, is what locates the rear axle from side to side. It does a LOT more than control sway hitting bumps at speed.

 

[turbo8]

Yeah, don't remove the panhard bar.

 

[1985taylor1925]

That is not a 4 link system. Those are just upper and lower control arms. They don't have near the angle to a 4 link. The bar you are referring to is the panhard or trac bar, and is 100% vital for the rear end stability

 

[Tyler James Inc]

That is not a 4 link system. Those are just upper and lower control arms. They don't have near the angle to a 4 link. The bar you are referring to is the panhard or trac bar, and is 100% vital for the rear end stability

Mostly correct, although a 4-link- in itself- doesn't refer to any particular angle.
Triangulated, double triangulated, etc implies the 4 links hold the axle centered.
I still consider our 4Runners having a 4 link with panhard/track bar. Or 5 link. Just my opinion, I suppose.
That said, the panhard bar is absolutely necessary.
Do not remove that "5th link".

 

[csp]

That is not a 4 link system. Those are just upper and lower control arms.

Actually it is. Two uppers and two lowers make it four links. As said, a four link has nothing to do with if it's triangulated or not. It's a four link with a panhard bar.

 

[1985taylor1925]

So it's really not a 4 link. It's a 4 link WITH a trac bar. The whole point of a 4 link is the triangular angle makes it structurally complete. I understand there are 4 links, but you can't take the panhard off and expect it to function like a 4link system. That's all I'm saying