How big a torsion bar nick is ok?

What size are those?
Did Dodge Vans use torsion bars? If so I heard one break under load 20 feet from me off a sidewalk. I was walking and this van drives by and BAM! sounded like a gunshot. I wince and then see the van start to pull over fast. I walked up to it and the driver tire was up in the well.
If it was a 71-90's they are coil spring. probably broke a ball joint.