The Artec Industries TR1409 APEX Short Truss represents a revolutionary approach to 14 bolt rear axle reinforcement, combining patent-pending design innovation with practical installation benefits. Engineered specifically for GM/Chevy 14 bolt axles, this truss delivers maximum strength while reducing weight and installation complexity.
Patent-Pending APEX Design:
The defining feature of this truss is its unique peaked top profile, which provides superior rigidity compared to traditional flat-top designs. This innovative geometry eliminates long weld seams that can cause axle warping and inconsistent results, allowing you to simply drop the truss into place and weld directly to the axle housing. The result is 70% less welding time, reduced heat distortion, and faster installation.
Precision Manufacturing:
CNC laser cut and precision bent in-house from 3/16" mild steel, the TR1409 weighs just 13 lbs while maintaining exceptional strength. The form-fitting contours match the 14 bolt casting precisely, and strategically placed dimpled holes reduce weight while adding structural rigidity. At 27.29" overall length, this truss is designed to fit between leaf springs or serve as a mounting base for link suspension systems.
Key Features:
- Patent-pending peaked top design maximizes rigidity without added weight
- CNC laser cut from 3/16" mild steel for optimal strength-to-weight ratio
- Precision bent for drop-in fitment with no assembly required
- 70% reduction in welding compared to conventional truss designs
- All long seams are pre-bent, eliminating time-consuming weld joints
- Dimpled hole pattern reduces weight while increasing structural strength
- Low-profile design allows link joints to mount approximately 9" from axle centerline
- Two-piece construction simplifies shipping and installation
- Compatible with leaf spring or link suspension configurations
- Designed for use with PG1404 14 bolt APEX Pinion Guard
- Weldable with standard MIG equipment using proper heating procedures
- Lightweight at only 13 lbs
Application Notes:
This truss fits most GM/Chevy 14 bolt axles from truck applications with 27.29" overall length. Van axles feature different offset and are not compatible. Due to casting variations in 14 bolt axles over different production years, minor trimming of the truss or non-structural casting features may be required for optimal fit. This truss serves as the foundation for Artec's APEX 1-ton swap kits for Jeep JK, JL, and JT platforms, providing critical differential protection and optional upper link mounting capabilities.
Installation Requirements:
Professional welding and fabrication skills are required for installation. Welding must be performed by a qualified welder using appropriate preheat and post-heat procedures when welding to cast steel differential housings. Some grinding and minor fitment adjustments may be necessary due to natural variations in axle castings. Artec Industries provides no warranty for improper installation.