Things you need to know about the different types of 4×4 suspension systems

There will come a time when you're faced with the question, "Does a 4 x 4 suspension fit my car?" If you've managed to get your rig up as high as possible, this may come sooner. Because bigger is better, right?

Well, we hate to burst your bubble, but when it comes to 4-by-4 suspension, bigger isn't always better. In fact, if your partner lifts helux by more than 50mm at the French Open, you might struggle with the move.

When it comes to choosing the right 4×4 system for your drill, it all comes down to meeting your chance needs.

If you spend the whole weekend traveling through some of the iconic flower instances in Western Australia, such as Mundaring Powerlines.

Or, we prefer to cast a line and watch the sunset on the beach, we will introduce 4×4 different types of scene systems.

So, before you start the next biggest and worst system, you need everything you know.

How does 4×4 work?

Similar to the highway, the 4×4 highway system is also an important part of determining the operating performance of the four-wheel drive vehicle, the performance on and off the highway, and the driving comfort.

The design of the 4×4 suspension greatly improves the characteristics of off-road driving. By absorbing shock, you can enjoy the low feeling of surface vibration during bumps.

It also helps stabilize, ensuring that all wheels remain in contact with the ground, reducing the chance of rolling.

A good suspension system will increase your tire's contact with any surface you drive on, while increasing load capacity and handling a smoother ride.

What are the main components that make up 4WD suspension? 

The most critical component of the four-wheel drive suspension system is the spring. Springs are what support your vehicle's weight and control the motion applied to under the wheels when you travel on uneven terrain. There are also four types of spring options, each with different functions for different applications.

What are the types of springs?

Leaf springs are ideal for carrying heavy loads. They are made of multiple pieces of spring steel, like a sheet of steel, bolted to the axle.

Helical springs improve handling and smoothness. With the right support, coiling springs can also significantly increase carrying capacity, making them ideal for off-road and long-distance travel.

Torsion bars greatly improve performance on and off the road. They take up less space than coil springs and improve ride quality and handling.

What do shock absorbers do?

Let me guess, your first thought is that the shock absorbers absorb the impact of the bumps. In fact, they don't. They do, however, reduce the spring's motion, which ultimately absorbs the shock.

For example, if you're driving a four-wheel-drive SUV and hit a big bump, you'll notice the car moving up and down -- but only once.

This is because the "vibration" movement of spring has been absorbed, making your ride more comfortable.

What are the different types of 4×4 suspension?

Solid shaft suspension device

These suspension systems are located on either side of the differential and are connected to the single-shaft housing, which gives it a dependency. When one wheel moves up and down, it hits the other wheel directly.

Solid axles, also known as live axle suspension, are more durable than most stand-alone front suspension systems and increase traction to overcome large bumps or hills.

They also provide more power from the differential because there are fewer parts.

Advantages of solid axle suspension

- Improves ride quality (smoother)

- Improves traction on big bumps and hills

- Get more torque from the differential

- More durable than most IFS axles

- Compared to IFS, it can be easily changed, making it easier to fix

Different to the dependent suspension system in which two sides are connected by a single axle, and the major difference of this system is that, the suspension is not connected together.

At the center of this system is a shaft housing, which contains the ring gear and the carrier live.Instead of a shaft tube running to each wheel, a constant speed shaft is used. When one wheel moves up and down, it does not affect the other wheel.

This allows the driver to maneuver easily over difficult tracks, providing improved handling and greater front-end clearance.

Advantages of independent suspension

- A more comfortable ride

- Lighter in weight

- Improved handling

- May improve front end clearance

Ways to Check Car Suspension

- TRE requirements for four wheel drive accessories for general use

- What is a 4 x 4 elevator kit? Do I need one?

- Elevate your off-road experience to all new heights with a Total 4 x 4

- The Australian outback can be a harsh and unforgiving environment. Without the right four-wheel drive suspension, you'll find it almost impossible to tackle some of the best SUVs TRE has to offer.

When customising the lift kit that best suits the customer's needs, we consider whether the vehicle is fitted with a bull pole and the afterload requirements - light, medium or heavy.

Rear load classes can vary greatly depending on what baggage, materials or recovery devices are intended to be carried in the cargo area. 

If you're in doubt, contact the professionals at Tre 4×4, we more than are happy to inspect your 4WD, and we can provide you expert advice and supply high quality 4×4 accessories.