Front Suspension Systems

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

Coil Springs

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

Tension Loaded Ball Joint

Compression Loaded Ball Joint

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

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

Short & Long Arm Suspension

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