Leaf spring rear suspensions

[GregLocock]

If I were to redesign a light truck's rear suspension I would like to reduce the compliance oversteer.

It seems to me that one thing that would help would be to put the hanger at the front of the leaf spring.

Has anyone tried that? What problems did it cause?

I realise it would tend to cause more driveline plunge, and ground clearance might be an issue, but other than that I can't see a downside.

Alternatively, other than fitting a Panhard rod, has anybody got any neat suggestions to get the same effect?

Cheers

Greg Locock

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.

 

[cibachrome]

If you splay the springs in the plan view such that the instant center is rearward of the axle, lateral force understeer will occur. This means the rear attachments will be more inboard of the front attachments. Only drawback is the load carrying members won't be parallel: i.e you frame won't be straight. This is the same thing a Panhard bar does.

 

[GregLocock]

Really? I've /measured/ the compliance understeer of several leaf springs. The geometry is not the dominant contributor.


Cheers

Greg Locock

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.