The suspension system of a vehicle is one of the most important components in a vehicle since it provides the comfort, control and security of the vehicle. Knowledge of the different parts of the suspension system enables one to identify problems, maintain, and decide on the appropriate repair. Suspension parts are as follows:
Springs
Shocks are crucial elements of any automobile suspension system as they manage the car’s height and absorb road vibrations. There are three main types of springs used in suspension systems:
Coil Springs: These are the most commonly found ones and look like heavy metal coils. It contracts and dilates to cushion the shocks on the road.
Leaf Springs: These are commonly used in the older models of vehicles and trucks and are made of several metal layers or leaves that are bonded together. They offer a strong and long-lasting suspension solution.
Torsion Bars: These are long metal bars that rotate to help in reducing shocks that are experienced on the road. They are commonly applied in the front suspension of trucks and SUVs.
Shock Absorbers and Struts
Springs and their motion are regulated by shock absorbers and struts that play a crucial role in driving. While they serve similar functions, they are not the same:
Shock Absorbers: These hydraulic devices reduce the effects of road roughness by using the energy of motion to heat and thus dissipate. They assist in the provision of a more forceful grip between the tires and the road surface.
Struts: These are structural parts that combine a shock absorber with a coil spring. Struts take the weight of the vehicle and also offer support to the suspension system of the vehicle.
Control Arms
A-arms or wish bones are bars that link the suspension system to the structure of the car. They permit it to move up and down and at the same time ensure that the wheels remain parallel to the body. Anti-squat arms are usually installed in the front and rear suspensions and are very important in ensuring that the wheels are properly aligned to ensure good handling.
Ball Joints
Control arm is a metal link that connects the wheel to the car’s chassis and it has a ball joint that serves as a pivot point between the control arm and the steering knuckle. They provide for easy movement and flexibility in the suspension system to allow the wheels to move up and down and turn from one direction to another. Ball joints are vital for the steering and suspension system and when the ball joints are worn out, it results in poor handling and uneven wear of tires.
Sway Bars
Sway bars or anti-roll bars are used to prevent the car body from rolling from side to side during cornering. It links the left and right sides of the suspension and they assist in the distribution of weight between the tires. Sway bars enhance stability and control of the car particularly in the occasions where quick turns are made.
Bushings
Bushes are small rubber or polyurethane parts that act as shock absorbers and insulators of metal components of the suspension system. They minimize the shocks and noise while on the other hand allowing for the body to move in a manner that is regulated. Some of the common places where bushings are used are at the control arms, the sway bars, and the shock absorbers. Bushing, with time wears out and could produce loud sounds like clunking or poor handling of the car.
Tie Rods
Tie rods are part of the steering system, they link the steering rack to the steering knuckles. They convey the instructions of the driver to the wheels so that the direction of the car can be well determined. Tie rods are the components that are responsible for proper steering and alignment and therefore must function correctly.
Conclusion
It is important to know the various sub systems that make up the suspension system of a vehicle in order to ensure that it works effectively, safely and comfortably. Coils, dampers, torsion bars, spindles, ball joints, anti roll bars, bushes and wishbones are all essential components for providing a good ride and control. It is recommended to inspect and service these components frequently to avoid problems and to maximize the usage of your automobile’s suspension. For those who like to fix things on your own, or those who always turn to the professionals, it is important to learn about the suspension parts as well as their functions so that you can make the right decisions and keep your car in perfect condition.
