Each front strut assembly includes a
tubular strut housing with an integrated
shock absorber and a large coil spring.
The upper strut mount includes a coil
spring seat and strut bearing. A rubber
bump stop limits suspension travel. The
steering arm clamps the lower end of the
strut assembly. The strut assembly
pivots between the upper strut mount
bearing and a ball joint on the control
arm.
The front suspension is designed with
minimum positive steering offset. This
geometry contributes to stability when
traction is unequal from side to side.
Front suspension, rear wheel drive
cars
The control arms are constructed of
forged aluminum. This design lowers the
overall weight of the car and reduces the
amount of unsprung mass. By reducing
unsprung mass, softer, more
comfortable springs can be used and
accurate handling is maintained.
The three point mounting of each
L-shaped control arm precisely controls
the front-to-rear and side-to-side position
of the strut, while the flexibility of the
joints and mounts also allows the
movement necessary for suspension
travel. The control arm mounting points
Suspension, Steering and Brakes — General
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