Front Suspension Systems

Coil Springs Coiled bar of spring type steel Absorbs road shock & carries vehicle weight Linear- rate – equally spaced coils, have constant spring rating Variable-rate – tapered, unequal spacing, act differently under various loads Linear-rate springs have one load carrying value Variable rate spring change properties as more weight is added

Torsion Bars Used in place of coil springs, usually 4WD trucks Bar twists, resisting movement of lower control arm

Ball Joints Pivot points allowing steering knuckle movement Reduced steering effort Improved ride quality

Ball Joint Construction Ball & Socket design Ball seat is cushioned Spring loaded

Load Carrying Ball Joints Support vehicle weight

Tension Loaded Ball Joint Knuckle attached above lower control arm

Compression Loaded Ball Joint Knuckle attached under lower control arm

Non-Load-Carrying Ball Joint

Stabilizer Bar

Strut Rod Connected to frame & lower control arm Controls fore & aft movement of control arm May provide for caster adjustment

I-Beam Suspension Solid axle connecting both front steering knuckles Used on H.D. trucks

Twin I-Beam

Short & Long Arm Suspension Provide for an independent suspension system Camber & caster angles remain fairly constant over bumps Arms connected to frame with rubber bushings

Upper Control Arm Design

Type 1 Design

Type 2 Design

S.A.L.A. Travel

MacPherson Strut Suspension

Modified Strut Design

Modified Strut Design

Double Wish Bone Design

Independent Front 4WD

Independent Front 4WD

Solid Front 4WD