We've discussed this before, I think.. back maybe as long as a few years ago.

My interpretation is/was that the locating links act against axle torque so it can indeed be considered a traction bar.

I have an email somewhere because I wrote the CompBoard for a clarification. the matter was not put before the board, but whoever replied disagreed with my viewpoint. The issue accroding to him was the 'serves no other purpose'.

IMHO However now, that brings us to redefining 'traction bar'. In reality, the only way a traction bar cannot serve another purpose is for it to be disconnected when there is no axle torque. (like an old ladder bar). Even then, I'll be damn sure that I can make an argument that even that serves as 'ballast' as well.

So, my opinion is that still lies in the defensible gray area.