Suspension Trucks Review
The Ford F-150’s latest redesign has everyone talking about its hybrid powertrain, folding shifter and big touchscreen. But it’s the suspension that makes this truck work. The suspension system absorbs the jitters of driving on rough roads, and it also protects the truck’s load from bumps and holes in the road.
Different truck applications and environments require different suspension systems to keep drivers comfortable and equipment protected. For example, a fire department that mostly transports firefighters and their gear to emergencies in cities may not need a suspension system that emphasizes ride quality. However, a fire department that regularly transports to rural areas with rough roads and terrain would benefit from a suspension system that offers a smoother ride.
Rigid axle suspensions are among the oldest and simplest types of suspension. These systems use a set of rigid axles that are tied together by a series of links. They allow for a small amount of movement between the axles, which helps distribute the vehicle’s weight evenly and provide stability.
Another type of suspension uses leaf springs, which are long, arched pieces of steel designed to flex when they hit a bump or other obstacles, but they return to their original shape after the impact. A coil spring suspension, which is found in most modern trucks and trailers, is the most versatile suspension because it has a wide range of adjustment options. These options include shock absorbers, which help the springs adjust after hitting a hole or bump, and rods and linkages that connect the various components of the suspension system.
