Suspension Systems
What force must be contained? What happens if the force is not contained?
Spring force. Big time injuries!
Why should you not hold the steering wheel at lock for more than five seconds?
pump will burn, burst seals/hoses
A vehicle will pull to the side with the least positive _____
Caster
What are 2 benefits of a lower ride height?
Better handling and stability, improved aerodynamics
What is a subframe used for?
Added structural support for a unibody chassis
What is the purpose of a panhard rod?
Restricts side-to-side movement of rear axle
What is the main input for the variable assist power steering? What happens if this input is lost?
Wheel speed sensor, VAPS no worky
List 2 causes of excessive outside tire wear
Excessive positive camber and underinflation
What is the main purpose of a roll cage?
To add strength to the chassis (also to protect the driver)
What 3 Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) ratings are found on the sidewall of a tire?
Treadwear, traction, temperature
Where is a torque arm typically mounted?
From the transmission cross member to the rear axle
What are TWO steps to properly disable the SRS?
Disconnect battery (neg. first), wait manufacturer recommended time for capacitors to discharge
Name 3 things we check during a pre-alignment inspection
Ride height, tire pressure, tire tread depth, worn components, brake drag, wheel runout, etc.
What is the purpose of a spoiler?
To look cool! jk To create down force on the rear axle to help increase traction of the rear wheels
How do we adjust front tow on MOST vehicles?
adjust front tie rods
Is a strut rod another type of control arm?
Yes!
If you're servicing a steering column out of the vehicle, why should you lock the steering column?
To prevent damage to the clock spring
What is dog tracking?
When a vehicle's rear wheels do not follow the same path as the front wheels. This makes the vehicle look like it's moving sideways when driving straight.
What happens to center of gravity when suspension is lifted?
Center of gravity is raised
How long should you keep the gate valve closed on the power steering analyzer? Why?
No more than 5 seconds, otherwise lines could burst or the pump will burn out.
What is the difference between Mcpherson strut and chapman strut?
Macpherson= rotates, for steering axle
Chapman= does not rotate, for rear axle mostly
What are 3 advantages of electronic power steering?
Improved fuel efficiency, enhanced precision, and no leaks!
When using the road force balancer to correct a wheel's runout, you want to place the ____ part of the tire to the ____ spot on the rim
Stiff part of the tire to the low spot on the rim
What is bump steer?
It is the unintended change in a vehicle's toe angle caused by suspension movement, leading to slight steering without driver input.
What components can you find mounted to a subframe?
Engine, transmission, steering rack, and suspension components to name a few!