Ridetech 11169500 TruTurn Front Suspension System Installation Manual

1. Introduction

The Ridetech TruTurn Front Suspension System (Model 11169500) is an advanced steering and suspension upgrade designed for 1967-1969 Camaro and Firebird F-Body, and 1968-1974 Nova and X-body vehicles. This system addresses common suspension geometry and tire clearance limitations found in these classic models. It aims to improve handling characteristics by correcting camber gain, reducing bumpsteer, and allowing for wider wheel and tire combinations. This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your TruTurn system.

2. Safety Information

Important: Read all instructions thoroughly before beginning installation. Improper installation can lead to vehicle damage, personal injury, or death. If you are not confident in your mechanical abilities, seek professional assistance.

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and gloves.
• Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands or a lift before working underneath it. Never rely solely on a jack.
• Disconnect the vehicle's battery before performing any electrical work.
• Use the correct tools for each step.
• Do not modify any components of the TruTurn system.
• After installation, perform a thorough inspection of all fasteners and connections.
• A professional wheel alignment is mandatory after installing any suspension components.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components listed below are present and undamaged before beginning installation.

Figure 3.1: Overview of the Ridetech TruTurn Front Suspension System components. This image displays the tall dropped spindles, steering arms, forged drag link, and tie rod assemblies.

• Tall Dropped Spindles: Designed for improved camber gain and a 1.75" vehicle drop.
• Steering Arms: Engineered to correct bumpsteer and provide clearance for wide wheels (up to 10" wide with 5.75" backspacing).
• Forged Drag Link: Replaces the OEM drag link to optimize inner tie rod end position and minimize bumpsteer.
• Tie Rod Assemblies: Integrates with new steering arms and centerlink for a direct bolt-on steering solution.
• Associated hardware (nuts, bolts, washers)

4. Setup and Installation

This section outlines the general steps for installing the Ridetech TruTurn Front Suspension System. Specific vehicle disassembly procedures are not covered here and should be performed according to your vehicle's service manual.

4.1. Preparation

1. Safely lift and support the front of the vehicle.
2. Remove the front wheels.
3. Disassemble the existing front suspension components, including spindles, steering arms, drag link, and tie rods. Retain any reusable hardware as necessary.

4.2. Tall Dropped Spindle Installation

The new tall dropped spindles are designed to improve camber gain and lower the vehicle.

1. Install the new tall dropped spindles onto the upper and lower ball joints. Ensure proper seating and torque ball joint nuts to manufacturer specifications.
2. Install the brake caliper and rotor onto the new spindle.

4.3. Steering Arm Installation

These steering arms are crucial for correcting bumpsteer and providing wheel clearance.

1. Attach the new steering arms to the tall dropped spindles using the provided hardware. Torque fasteners to specifications.
2. Ensure the steering arms are oriented correctly for left and right sides.

4.4. Forged Drag Link Installation

The forged drag link relocates the inner tie rod end for optimal bumpsteer reduction.

Figure 4.1: The forged drag link, a key component of the TruTurn system, designed to optimize steering geometry.

1. Install the new forged drag link in place of the OEM drag link.
2. Connect the drag link to the appropriate steering components, ensuring all fasteners are torqued correctly.

4.5. Tie Rod Assembly Installation

The tie rod assemblies connect the steering arms to the drag link, completing the steering system.

1. Attach the new tie rod assemblies to the steering arms and the forged drag link.
2. Ensure all connections are secure and torqued to specifications.
3. Reinstall the front wheels.
4. Lower the vehicle.
5. Mandatory: Immediately after installation, have a professional wheel alignment performed to ensure correct steering geometry and tire wear.

5. Operating Principles

The Ridetech TruTurn system significantly enhances the performance of your vehicle's front suspension through several key design improvements:

• Improved Camber Gain: The taller dropped spindles are engineered to optimize the camber curve, causing the tires to lean into the turn during cornering. This increases the tire's contact patch and improves grip.
• Reduced Bumpsteer: The redesigned steering arms and forged drag link work in conjunction to minimize bumpsteer, which is the undesirable change in toe angle as the suspension moves up and down. This results in more predictable and stable steering, especially over uneven surfaces. Bumpsteer is reduced to under 0.050" through 5" of suspension travel.
• Increased Tire Clearance: The specific design of the steering arms provides additional clearance, allowing for the use of wider wheels (up to 10" wide) and larger tires (up to 275mm) without interference.

6. Maintenance

Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial for the longevity and performance of your TruTurn system.

• Periodic Inspection: Annually, or every 12,000 miles, inspect all suspension components for wear, damage, or loose fasteners. Pay close attention to ball joints, tie rod ends, and spindle connections.
• Lubrication: If components are equipped with grease fittings, lubricate them according to standard automotive practices.
• Alignment Checks: Have your wheel alignment checked periodically, especially after any significant impact or if you notice uneven tire wear or steering issues.
• Cleaning: Keep suspension components free of excessive dirt and debris.

7. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues after installing the TruTurn system, consider the following:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is often an indication of incorrect wheel alignment. Ensure a professional alignment has been performed and is within specifications.
• Poor Steering Response or Instability: Check all fasteners for proper torque. Verify that all components are installed correctly and not binding. Re-check alignment.
• Noise from Suspension: Inspect for loose components, worn bushings, or interference with other vehicle parts.
• Tire Rubbing: Re-verify wheel and tire specifications against the TruTurn system's clearance capabilities. Ensure proper backspacing.

For persistent issues, contact Ridetech technical support or consult a qualified automotive technician.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Ridetech products are manufactured to high standards. For specific warranty information regarding your TruTurn Front Suspension System, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Ridetech website.

For technical assistance, installation questions, or to report missing/damaged parts, please contact Ridetech customer support directly.

• Manufacturer: Ridetech
• Website: www.ridetech.com (Example link, actual link not provided in input)
• Contact Information: Refer to the manufacturer's website for the most current contact details.