subject: Suspension: Keeping The Rubber On The Road [print this page] Other than the words Im pregnant, few things will send a chill up a guys spine faster than the sound of his suspension bottoming out and the ensuing SCRAAAAAPE of the tires on the undercarriage. But when you routinely haul heavy loads, youre constantly at risk for damaging your wheels and the lower portion of your exterior, often shaving a layer of paint off every time you climb over a speed bump or high curb. Damage aside, underperforming stock suspension components dont make for a very smooth ride. Luckily, aftermarket upgrades are affordable and easy to install. So, keep the paint from chipping and the rubber on the road with some of the following suggestions.
Shock absorbers are always a good place to start. Whether youre looking to upgrade or just replace your shocks, performance-grade shock absorbers are available as custom-fit, universal performance shocks, OEM-style and even factory replacements, ensuring a straightforward installation at a fraction of what the dealer would charge you. Theyre specially-tuned to your make, model and year, with each part robotically welded for accuracy and quality construction, assuring reliability and lasting performance.
Coil springs are shock absorbers that work through the collection and release of energy. Also known as lowering springs, theyre shaped like the spring found on the business end of a pogo stick and constructed from an elastic material that expands to provide suspension, returning to their natural shape when not in use.
Leaf springs are another option. Theyre also one of the oldest and simplest forms of suspension, dating back to medieval times. Leaf springs have an arc-shaped appearance and provide one advantage over a coil spring: the end of the springs can be guided along a definite path. While leaf springs provide some reduction in vibration, they can be difficult to control and create static friction from the motion of the suspension, which is why their use is reserved mainly for farming equipment and rarely appears on modern cars and trucks.
Another way to upgrade those stock components is with an air suspension. Its powered by an engine-driven or electric air compressor and remains wildly popular among auto enthusiasts and those looking to smooth out the bumps in the road while getting away from metal components. The pump pressurizes air and uses it to replace conventional steel springs. Air shocks allow the user to adjust each wheel's air pressure individually and even tilt the vehicle side to side or front to back, providing clearance for obstacles like speed bumps and curbs.
Finally, top off your upgraded suspension system with a sway bar. Manufactured from cold-formed, high-strength steel, a sway bar reduces speed-robbing body roll and increases grip through the corners to provide a performance edge.
