Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Recommendations for Shock Absorbers
Shock absorbers are an important element of automotive suspension. They slow or "dampen" the shock effect of bumps and bounces from the road surface. All work on the same principle: they are tubes filled with fluid with a piston. A bump or shock forces the piston against the fluid; a small amount is allowed to seep through minute holes in the piston head. This compression reduces the force of the shock; the piston then returns to its normal position.
Basic Shock Types
There are three broad types of shock absorber: conventional telescopic, strut or spring seat. Within the conventional type are five varieties: standard, heavy duty, automatic level control, adjustable air and overload. Modern cars tend to have MacPherson struts in front. Older cars and most trucks use conventional shock absorbers, with the variety depending on the use. The specific type of shock absorber will vary with the vehicle and its use.
Conventional Telescopic
The conventional telescropic is the most common type of shock absorber. Variations come from the type of oil or hydraulic fluid used. Some -- gas shocks -- use nitrogen gas to reduce the bouncy effect of a shock. These are used mostly on smaller cars, although some manufacturers put them on larger models as a way to extend the life of the hydraulic fluid by expanding to make up for a drop in fluid effectiveness. Conventional shocks bolt to the vehicle suspension.
Similarities of Struts and Spring Seat
MacPherson struts do the same job as conventional shock absorbers, but replace part of the vehicles basic suspension system. These are generally found on the front suspension of newer cars; they are able to better cope with greater loads and forces and thus produce a smoother ride. MacPherson struts use replaceable cartridges but because they are part of the vehicle suspension they are under greater tension and generally require replacement by a professional. Spring seat shocks combine elements of the other styles -- a shock absorber installed within a spring.
Choosing a Shock Absorber
The choice of a shock absorber will depend on the vehicle and its use. Standard shocks are most common -- heavy duty variations are used on heavier vehicles. Automatic level styles can be adjusted to adapt to changing loads. Adjujstable air shocks can be inflated to meet varying conditions. Overload shocks incorporate a spring around the piston for added strength; these differ from spring seat shocks in that the spring is an integral part of the shock.
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