Automotive
strut or auto sturt or simply Strut is an important and integral part of the
vehicles suspension system. Mounted in a coil spring it acts as shock
absorber. Just like shock absorber it provide a dampening function and forms
structural support for the vehicle suspension. In this sense, the functions
of strut is more than the shock absorber that is, it not only supports the
weight of the vehicle but also control the speed at which weight is
transferred in a car.
Shock absorber along with struts play major role in handling of a vehicle
especially car. If the shock and strut is worn out then it should be
replaced immediately because the tire's ability to grip the road gets
reduced. It also effects the handling and braking performance.
Technically also refereed as McPherson struts, they are mainly installed on
the front end of nearly all front-wheel drive vehicles. Several suspension
parts are incorporated into one compact assembly. The parts include spring
seats, shock absorber, steering knuckle, and coil spring. As various
suspension components are incorporated into strut, it is responsible for
doing multiple tasks.
Strut Suspension with coil Spring
Types of Automotive Struts
On the basis of design and configuration Auto Struts can be divided into
two main categories:
What are the multiple task Auto strut performs?
An automotive strut bear the weight of the vehicle with the spring. The
internal shock absorber on the other hand dampens the movement of the spring
as it compresses and rebounds when the vehicle moves. The strut housing,
links the upper strut bearing to the lower ball joint thereby pivoting whole
assembly, when the steering wheel is turned. In this sense it acts as
structural component of the suspension system.
Shocks vs.
Struts
Often strut is confused with shock absorber. Though just like shock
absorber strut too helps in the dampening of the movement of the
suspension and gives control ride by keeping the tires in contact with
the road yet it is quite different from shocks. For example shock is not
the integral part of the suspension system whereas strut is both the
structural and the integral part of the system. The outside structure of
he strut and the shock absorber is also quite different. But speaking of
the internal hydraulic systems then it is quite similar to twin tube
shocks. |
How to maintain the struts?
Here
is the maintenance tips for your automotive struts. Even when the conditions
are normal it has been observed that the strut cartridge gradually wears
out. This can cause related losses like handling, ride quality and control
that may be not noticeable under first instance. The malfunctioning of the
struts are indicated by swaying, rocking back and forth, bottoming out,
drifting or nose-diving while braking, too much bouncing and cupping wear
observed on tires. Once you notice these indicators you must immediately get
your strut checked by technicians. If the malfunctioning can be corrected by
servicing you can go for it otherwise get it replaced.
