In their simplest form, shock absorbers are devices similar to hydraulic (oil) pumps that help control the shock and rebound of your car’s springs and suspension. In addition to smoothing out bumps and vibrations, the key function of a shock absorber is to ensure that the vehicle’s tires always remain in contact with the road surface, ensuring that vehicle control and braking response are as safe as possible. possible.
This is what we call the Monroe Safety Triangle, which encourages motorists to check tires, brakes, and shocks at every service to ensure optimal braking, handling, and stability.
WHAT DO SHOCK ABSORBERS DO?
Essentially, shock absorbers do two things. In addition to controlling the movement of the springs and suspension, shock absorbers also keep the tires in constant contact with the ground. Whether at rest or in motion, the bottom of the tires is the only part of your vehicle that is in contact with the road. Any time the tires’ contact with the ground is interrupted or reduced, their ability to steer, turn and brake is greatly reduced.
Despite popular belief, shock absorbers cannot support the weight of a vehicle.
SHOCK ABSORBERS LEARN MORE
First, a bit of science. Shock absorbers work by taking the kinetic energy (motion) of your suspension and converting it into thermal energy (heat), which is then dissipated into the atmosphere through a heat exchange mechanism.
But it is not as difficult as it might seem.
As mentioned, shock absorbers are basically oil pumps. The piston is attached to the end of the piston rod and works against the hydraulic fluid in the pressure tube. As the suspension moves up and down, hydraulic fluid is forced through holes (small holes) inside the piston. Because the holes allow only a small amount of fluid to pass through the piston, the piston slows down, which in turn slows down the movement of the spring and suspension.
The shock absorbers automatically adapt to road conditions because the faster the suspension moves, the more resistance they offer.
TYPES OF SHOCK ABSORBERS
While all shock absorbers do the same job, different types of vehicles and suspension designs require different types of shock absorbers, which can vary dramatically.
Regardless of the application, all shocks fall into one of three broadly defined types: conventional telescopic shocks, struts, or coil-over shocks.
SUPPORT TYPE SHOCK ABSORBERS
While they do the same basic job, the struts replace part of the suspension system and need to be stronger to handle higher loads and forces.
Although most commonly seen on the front and rear of small to mid-size vehicles, larger vehicles currently trend toward strut-based suspension designs. The rack category is further divided into sealed and repairable assemblies.
As the name suggests, sealed units are designed to be fully replaceable, while serviceable (McPherson) racks can be fitted with replaceable cartridges.
SEAT SPRING DAMPER
The spring-style saddle exhibits the features of telescopic and strut shock absorbers. Like the struts, the spring shock absorber is a suspension assembly and damping device in one unit.
However, unlike racks, they are not designed for high side loads. Built with similar components to conventional shock absorbers, the shock spring seats are also sealed and require complete replacement.
