I'm restoring my '68 Barracuda and was wondering if the original torsion bars can be reused or if I should buy new. My car came with a big block and has the .89 size bars. The big block was taken out way back in 1974 and replaced with a 318 and was driven mostly by an old lady so it wasn't hot rodded for at least those years. If the originals could be used I would like to use them but was wondering what everyone's opinion on this is. Thanks...

If they are in good condition, I'd reuse them.

new......come on

I reuse them all the time as long as they are in good contition. Even the ones in my 63 are original and I have never had any break on me. Ron

My thoughts are that if you are going for a stock restoration, only the factory bars would be correct. I went from a 318 to a 440, and I wanted improved handling at the same time. I chose to go with larger T bars. If yours are not bent and the hex ends are still in alignment with each other, then they would be fine to reuse. Lay them on a bench or table. If both ends sit flat on the surface, your golden.

Hey it's your money, why not.

Seriously, I'd reuse them. I've never had a single one break and yours weren't even supporting a big block over most of its life.

That's pretty much exactly what I was thinking. I'll have to check for alignment Like you said, but I think they should be good. I am looking to keep or return everything to stock so I'm hoping they will be good. Thanks for the thoughts...keep 'em comin'.

Yea, beside I am just a working stiff and I don't have a bottomless checkbook.