The Suspension System

The suspension system of an automobile refers to the way in which the vehicle body and frame are being supported by linkages, dampers, and springs placed between the road wheels and the chassis frame to absorb road shocks.

Suspension System - Photo Credit: slideshare.net

When a vehicle moves along the road, there is a tendency for the wheels to sway into potholes and bumps producing shocks which are eventually transferred to the vehicle chassis, body, as well as goods and passengers.

Main function of the Suspension System

The main function of the suspension system is to reduce to the barest minimum, the road shocks from being transmitted to the vehicle body work and passengers.

Main Components of the Suspension System

Springs

The suspension springs are fitted between the road wheels and chassis in order to cushion the Motor Vehicle from shocks when the Vehicle is undergoing upward and downward motion as a result of road surface irregularities.

Suspension springs may come in the form of leaf or laminated spring, coil spring, torsion bar, rubber suspension, air or pneumatic springing method.

Dampers or shock absorbers

The shock absorber is a mechanical or hydraulic device used to absorb and damp shock impulses.

Wheels and tyres

These are rotating vehicular wheels that hold to the track and aid the vehicle to move in a continuous pattern. They serve as a support to the suspension springs.

Types of Suspension System

Dependent Suspension

A dependent suspension has a beam that holds wheels in parallel and perpendicular position to the axle. That is, the four wheels are interconnected in that movement of one wheel affects the others.

Independent Suspension

Independent suspension refers to the type whereby each wheel is connected individually. That is, the wheels are independently supported. This type of suspension has some advantages over the dependent suspension system; they include:

1. It gives room for wider arrangement of springs thereby enabling the steering to be firm and not affected by the action of the suspension system. 
2. Absence of axle beam allows the engine to be arranged forward thereby ensuring passengers’ comfort and creating more space for luggage.