| "Smart"
Suspensions
Today, more and more passenger cars are utilizing an active
suspension system, or a "smart" suspension.A smart suspension is similar to a traditional, or passive, suspension system
since many of the same components are found in each. Shock absorbers or struts,
bushings and suspension components all work together to provide good handling
and a comfortable ride in both systems.
However, in a smart suspension system coil springs are replaced by air bags, which support the weight of the vehicle. These air bags, and usually the shocks or struts, are electronically controlled to respond to changing load and driving conditions. Most often the driver can also select a firmer or softer ride control setting to adapt to driving conditions.
In many systems, the suspension is air operated and controlled by a computer. This computer provides automatic front and rear load levelling by means of air springs. An air compressor supplies the air to the system and airflow is controlled by the interaction of the compressor, solenoids, height sensors, and the control module or computer. In addition to air springs, many systems also use dual-stage struts capable of changing their internal valving by means of a stepper motor.
The manufacturer for each individual model recommends specific maintenance and servicing procedures. Typically, diagnosis of these systems involves interpreting trouble codes from the vehicle's computer and electronically measuring the many motors and sensors in the system. Refer to the manufacturer's service manual for specific procedures.
Comfort and Safety
The suspension system allows the vehicle body to ride relatively
undisturbed while travelling over rough roads.
Front Suspensions
There are two major types of conventional front suspensions.
They are dependent and independent.
The dependent front suspension uses a solid axle. This design consists of one steel or aluminium beam extending the width of the vehicle. This beam is held in place by leaf springs.
The independent front suspension was developed in the 1930's to improve vehicle ride control and riding comfort. With the independent design, each wheel is mounted on its own axle. This allows the wheels to respond individually to road conditions. Also, with independent front suspension the sprung weight is reduced, creating a smoother ride.
Rear Suspensions
Just as we discussed with front suspensions, there are two
types or rear suspensions: dependent and independent.
Main Components
At this point it's easy to understand that the main components
of a moving vehicle's suspension system are the struts, shock
absorbers, springs, and tyres.
Why are Coil Springs Replaced
There are three major reasons springs are replaced are height, handling and heavy loading. Kings Performance Replacement Coil Springs will achieve improvements in any or all of these areas.
Why are Shock Absorbers so Important
If your shock absorbers don’t work, neither do your
brakes…..
- You can stop your car 20% faster if you have new shocks (compared to worn ones).
- Worn shock absorbers results in your car's tyres having less contact with the road. So it takes much longer to stop because your tyres virtually hop across the road when you brake.
- When travelling at 50km/h, just one worn shock absorber can add as much as 2 metres to your stopping distance.
Choosing the right
shock absorber for you and your car.
 
  
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