Correct direction of torsion bars

Me and a guy were hashing out if the part number or date code went to the rear torsion cross member. So what is the correct way?

If the paint splotches are still on the bars then they go towards the rear. If this isn't a numbers matching restoration then put the part numbers to the rear so you can see them. Otherwise it doesn't matter as long as you get them on the correct side.

If you are reinstalling or using torsion bars from another vehicle, I had heard years ago that it was VITAL to re-install them the same way they came out. In other words, if you reverse them & they twist the opposite way, you'd run into possibly the bars breaking. Does it matter?

What you heard was a misunderstanding of how the bars actually work. Close, but not quite correct. The factory bars were given a partial twist against the direction they would be loaded as a preset. That is why the bars need to be installed on the correct side, L or R. It doesn't matter which end goes in first since the direction they are twisted depends on the side of the car they are installed on, not which end is in front.

Ever unrestored car I have ever examined has always had the numbers at the rear. That is how you check to see if they have the correct bars.

the PN toward to rear is just about using an standard for installation but the left right is important. Hence the reason why they got diff L and R PNs.... Front or rear doesn't matter. You tight a bolt or a nut on the same direction... well the same for the T bars.

I had always thought numbers to the rear for identification of bars. I knew they have to be right or left correctly installed. Thanks for your info you have all shared.