Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Suspension: Description and Operation



General Description
These vehicles use a leaf spring and a solid rear axle suspension system.

The rear axle assembly is attached to multi-leaf springs with U-bolts. The front ends of the springs are attached to the frame at the front hangers with rubber bushings. The rear ends of the springs are attached to the frame with shackles that use rubber bushings. Shackles allow the springs to change position while the vehicle is in motion.

Two direct double-acting shock absorbers provide ride control. The shock absorbers are angle-mounted between the frame. The shock absorbers are attached with brackets. The brackets are attached to the anchor plate.

The rear spring steel stabilizing shaft helps minimize body roll and sway during cornering. The rear stabilizer shaft is connected to the rear axle and the frame with the following components:
^ The rubber insulators
^ The clamps
^ The link assemblies