The Arch Street Wheel & Tire team is here to serve your automotive needs and share our knowledge with you, so you can become as excited about everything that goes into your car as we are if you're not already! Today's topic is the suspension system, which contributes to your vehicle's ride quality, handling, safety, and weight capacity. In more practical terms, this means the suspension system absorbs the impact of bumps in the road, shifts the center of gravity so the the vehicle remains upright when taking corners at high speeds, keeps all wheels on the ground, and supports the weight of the vehicle.
The suspension system consists of springs, shock absorbers, anti-roll bars, control arms, and steering knuckles. In simple terms, the suspension system of a car is like its backbone. It is responsible for providing a smooth and comfortable ride, ensuring stability, and maintaining control over the vehicle. It is a complex network of components that work together to absorb bumps, vibrations, and shock while allowing the wheels to maintain contact with the road.
Springs are key components of the suspension system. They are like a set of elastic bands that absorb impact and support the weight of the car. Springs are usually made of steel or other durable materials. When you hit a bump, the springs compress and then release, helping to cushion the jolt and prevent the car from bouncing around excessively.
Shock absorbers (also known as dampers) are another important part of the suspension system. Think of them as brakes for the springs. Shock absorbers control the movement of the spring, preventing excessive bouncing or oscillation. They convert the kinetic energy from spring movement into heat energy, which is dissipated. This helps to keep the car stable and promotes a smoother ride.
The third major component of the suspension system is the anti-roll bar (also known as the sway bar). This is a metal rod that connects the left and right wheels of an axle. Its purpose is to reduce body roll during cornering and manage weight transfer. When the car turns, weight is shifted to the outer wheels, causing the body to roll. The anti-roll bar applies resistance to this movement, helping to keep the car level and stable.
Finally, the control arms and the steering knuckle connect the wheels to the frame of the car and allow them to move up and down. Control arms, along with other linkages, maintain the wheel alignment and control the wheel's vertical movement, providing optimal contact with the road surface. The steering knuckle is responsible for allowing the wheels to turn, allowing the driver to steer the car in different directions.
At Arch Street Wheel & Tire, we are known for our work with tires and wheels, but we are also a go-to provide for suspension work. When you need suspension service in Little Rock, AR, just give us a call or drop by the shop so we can schedule an appointment. We can help with ball joints, tie rods, shocks, struts, sway bar links, and more to keep your suspension system at its best.
And the next time you go for a drive, take a moment to appreciate the suspension system and how it makes your journey a breeze!
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