Suspension, Springs and Related Components Buying Guide
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In a vehicle, shock absorbers reduce the effect of traveling over rough ground, leading to improved ride quality and vehicle handling. While shock absorbers serve the purpose of limiting excessive suspension movement, their intended sole purpose is to damp spring oscillations.Spring rates are chosen by the manufacturer based on the weight of the vehicle, loaded and unloaded. A suspension system includes springs, shocks, struts, and possibly lifting or lowering kits. |
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How Suspension Systems WorkUnderstanding how suspension systems work helps buyers decide which parts they need for their vehicles. In essence, a suspension system is nothing more than a series of struts and springs between a vehicle's chassis and wheels.Spring-based shock absorbers commonly use coil springs or leaf springs, though torsion bars are used in torsional shocks as well.
Suspension SpringsSprings are at the heart of a suspension system and are crucial for its operation. Stock springs tend to be rather loose, and that makes for a bumpy ride. Aftermarket springs are usually stiffer than stock springs and provide additional stabilization. Each front and rear wheel has its own spring in one of three main types. |
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Torsion Bars |
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| As a helical spring, it is a mechanical device which is typically used to absorb shock. They are made of an elastic material formed into the shape of a helix which returns to its natural length when unloaded.However, large trucks and SUVs require stronger springs.
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Leaf springs are stronger than coil springs and are standard on many SUVs,4wd vehicles,and trucks. A leaf spring can be made from several leaves stacked on top of each other in several layers,and the design is far stiffer than that of a coil spring.
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Also known as a torsion spring suspension.Torsion bars work a bit differently than coil and leaf springs. Instead of compressing and releasing, torsion bars works by torsion or twisting. They are smaller than coil springs and often appear in front-end suspension systems in vehicles ranging from full-size sedans to large SUVs and off-road vehicles. |
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Suspension ShocksShocks reinforce the springs and further dampen the energy caused by the vehicle's wheels traveling over bumpy terrain. Both front shocks andrear shocks exist as either dual tube or monotube shocks, with several subtypes designed for specific uses. |
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Lifting and Lowering KitsChanging the suspension also allows the driver to lift or lower the chassis of the vehicle. The average driver does not need to adjust the chassis of the car, but a driver who enjoys racing or off-roading benefits from adjusting a vehicle's center of balance. Purchasing a kit allows the driver to get all the necessary compatible components at one time. |
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Lifting KitsLifting kits raise the chassis and suspension systems of cars. They are ideal for off-road driving because they raise a vehicle's center of balance and make it easier to travel over difficult terrain. A typical lifting kit includes spring extensions, control arms, blocks, and spacers. |
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Lowering KitsA lowering kit decreases a vehicle's height. It is ideal for racers because the lower center of gravity makes it easier for the driver to handle high acceleration speeds, especially around tight corners. A lowering kit usually includes springs, spindles, and control arms. |
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Superspares is a leading online supplier and distributor of aftermarket auto parts in Australia.We offer the best Replacement Parts, Steering Suspension, Shocks, Suspension Kit, and Car Accessories at the most affordable prices.Our committed, experienced staff are all classic car owners and enthusiasts and have years of specialist knowledge in the automotive industry. |
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