Rear Suspension Systems

Live-Axle

Live-Axle with Leaf Springs (Hotchkiss) Leaf springs control side sway A large amount of un-sprung weight Take up a lot of space

Rear Axle Torque Reaction Axle Wind-up

The axle is mounted off center on the spring Note: The axle is mounted off center on the spring Helps prevent axle wind-up

Also……. Mounting one rear shock in the front of the axle and one behind the axle helps to reduce wind up and axle tramp OFF-SET SHOCK DESIGN

Live-Axle with Coil Springs The upper control arms control lateral movement (side movement) The lower control arms control differential torque (wind up)

Trailing Arm

Used on many sports cars. Handles cornering loads better “A” shaped control arms mounted at an angle, called semi-trailing control arms Used on many sports cars. Handles cornering loads better

Multilink Independent Rear Suspension Note Hydraulic mount Superior noise and vibration dampening

Rear Suspension Systems On FWD Vehicles

Semi-Independent The axle assemble twists, gives semi-independent effect The axle assembly acts as a sway bar Track bar controls side movement

Tracking Bar with Diagonal Brace Both prevent lateral (side) axle movement.

Independent Rear with MacPherson Struts Caster & Toe adjustable Improved ride quality, steering control, tire life, & traction Lighter

Independent Rear with Shocks Toe is adjustable Camber is not

Camber & Toe Adjustments

Transverse Mono Leaf Spring Fiberglass Lightweight Compact High tension

Transverse Mono Leaf Spring Tie Rods Trailing Arm

Torque loads create bushing and control arm deflection during braking, corning, acceleration and deceleration. This causes a toe change to enhance straight line stability Toe change during corning leads to quicker and more responsive steering Double Wishbone