Introduction

The Ford Ranger came with two main front suspension styles depending on the year:

  • Twin I-Beam (TIB) and Twin Traction Beam (TTB): 1983–1997
  • SLA (Short Arm Long Arm) / Torsion Bar: 1998–2011

This guide breaks down the differences by year and 2WD vs 4WD configurations.

1983-1997 Ford Ranger 2WD Front Suspension (TIB)

The Twin I-Beam (TIB) front suspension is independent for each side of the axle, using a coil spring, radius arm, and its own beam. Introduced in 1965 on light-duty F-Series pickups, it offers a softer ride and improved handling. Note: TTB only refers to 4WD models, not these 2WD trucks.

Ford Ranger TIB Twin I-Beam 2WD Front Suspension Diagram
Ford Ranger 2WD Twin I-Beam Diagram

1983-1997 Ford Ranger 4WD Front Suspension (TTB)

The Twin Traction Beam (TTB) is similar to the TIB, but with larger axle beams. The driver’s side beam houses the differential (Dana 28 or Dana 35, reverse rotation). More info on these axles is available HERE.

Ford Ranger TTB Twin Traction Beam Front Suspension
TTB Coil Spring Diagram

TIB and TTB Axle Beam Comparisons

Driver side comparison: TTB (with differential) on the left, TIB on the right.

TIB vs TTB axle beams

1998-2010 Ford Ranger 2WD Front Suspension (SLA)

2WD Rangers used a Short Arm Long Arm (SLA) independent coil spring suspension, with upper and lower control arms and coil springs between them. These are not the same as the old TIB springs.

Ford Ranger SLA 2WD Coil Spring Front Suspension

Ford Ranger 2WD Torsion Bar Front Suspension

Some 1998+ 2WD Rangers used torsion bars instead of SLA coil springs, like the 2001-2005 Ranger Edge 2WD. Torsion bars run parallel to the frame and attach to the lower arm.

2005 Ford Ranger Edge 2WD Torsion Bar Suspension

1998-2010 Ford Ranger 4WD Front Suspension

All 1998-2010 4WD Rangers used torsion bar front suspension with a standard rotation Dana 35 differential. Unlike earlier TTB Dana 35s, these are not reverse rotation.

1998-2011 Ford Ranger 4WD Torsion Bar Suspension Diagram
Torsion bar suspension labeled diagram
Ford Ranger 4x4 Torsion Bar Suspension Diagram

2008-2011 vs 1998-2007 Ford Ranger 4×4 Changes

Ford adjusted torsion keys in 2008 to lower the front for better handling and MPG. Using older keys in newer trucks can raise the front 1.75-2 inches. Rear lift blocks also differ between 2008+ and older models.

How the Torsion Bar Works

The torsion bar twists when the lower A-arm moves. Anchored at the frame, it applies counterforce to return the A-arm. Ride height can be adjusted by the torsion key; aftermarket keys prevent over-rotation and premature bumpstop contact.

Torsion bar mechanism Ford Ranger

Thanks To Forum Members

  • hoosier1104 (truck photo)
  • Ranger44 (torsion bar photo)
  • adsm08 (diagramatics)
  • Sasquatch_Ryda (diagramatics)

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About The Author

Founder / Administrator at  | Staff Profile

Jim Oaks is the founder of The Ranger Station, one of the longest-running Ford Ranger enthusiast communities on the web. He has spent over three decades owning, modifying, repairing, and driving Ford Rangers on the street, trail, and cross-country routes.

Since launching TheRangerStation.com in 1999, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road tests contributed by owners worldwide. His work has been referenced by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, experience-based information rather than theoretical advice.

Jim’s hands-on experience includes long-distance overland travel, trail use, drivetrain and axle upgrades, suspension tuning, and platform comparisons across multiple Ranger generations. The content published on The Ranger Station is grounded in first-hand experience and community-verified data, not marketing claims or generic specifications.