Different Types Of Suspension Systems: Macpherson Strut, Double Wishbone, Solid Axel

Suspension is used in a car to provide the cushion between the cabin and the road. It helps reduce the disturbing noise and road vibrations due to potholes to offer good riding and handling quality for the driver and comfort to the passengers. Major types of suspension systems include MacPherson Strut, Double Wishbone and Solid Axel systems. You can discover best suspension cars in India with IndiaAuto in one of our previous posts. But in this article, let’s discover each type of suspension systems below.

MacPherson Strut

Working principles

The most popular independent suspension system is the McPherson Strut. Most passenger cars today come with this system in the front and a simpler coil spring in the rear. The system includes a damper/shock absorber and a simple assembly of coil spring. The spring serves the purpose of storing the energy from a sudden road jerk. The damper uses hydraulic fluid to distribute this energy in heat form. The system together limits unnecessary movements of the car due to undulations on the road.

Pros and cons

Double Wishbone

This type is an independent system that has the shape of bird bone and has two A-shaped control arms. These arms connect to the wheels and the vehicle frame at either end. One arm measures less in length in comparison with the other. Therefore, when cornering, the tyre remains in connection with the ground. The damper placement and spring are also flexible, varying according to space availability.

This type of suspension system is usually found in high-end luxury cars. It is also usually found in off-roaders since it can easily deal with potholes. If handling and comfort are your priority, this suspension is surely your ideal option.

Pros and cons

Solid Axel

Solid Axel is one of the most popular dependent types of suspension system in heavy duty vehicles. The setup is a solid bar connecting the two axels and is located in the rear. The entire weight of the vehicle is put on the solid axel so it needs to be tough and rigid. There are three main types of Solid Axel.

Left springs

Left springs are simply constructed, cheap to produce and is quite efficient. They are comprised of many metal plates which are on top of each other. They then connect to the solid axle of the truck which is parallel to the ground to optimize the effectiveness. Nevertheless, spring sideways moves freely, forward and backwards. Since the left springs are heavy, the unsprung mass is also increased.   

Trailing Control Arm

This type of suspension has diminished the cons of left springs since it connects the chassis and solid axel. Therefore, it helps prevent the sideways from moving forward and backwards. The system has a simple construction, consisting of two additional control arms. They are also very durable and strong but still a little bit heavy.

Panhard Rod

This type of suspension system is a rigid bar which stretches across the rear of the vehicle to minimize sideways movements. The solid axle and chassis are connected by the ends on either side. They also have a low manufacturing cost and are easy to install.

Below is a discussion on the types of suspension systems. Hope that after reading the article, you can choose your ideal car with a suitable type of suspension system.

FAQs

1. Do the front and rear suspensions serve the same function?

The two types of suspension perform similar functions; nevertheless, the specific construction is quite different. The ideal suspension for a car depends on its performance requirements and body type.

2. What causes suspension damage?

A sudden shock caused by potholes or other obstacles on the road can damage the suspension system.

3. How long does it take to replace the suspension?

Suspension replacement time can vary, depending on the complexity of the system.