Shock absorber strut in a car - what are its tasks? How is it different from the spacer on the cups? Is this a useful solution in a car? Automotive without secrets!
Content
Not only the cup strut is an element that improves the handling of the car. Tuning details that affect the car's handling also include:
- safety cage;
- thicker stabilizers;
- wheel arch struts;
- chassis farm;
- strut in the front rear and front suspension.
As you can see, the rack comes in many varieties, but in this article we will be dealing with two types. We will describe those mounted on cups and suspension.
What does the spacer cups in the car? How it works?
Let's start from the very beginning - such an element is mounted in the engine compartment on factory-made bolts that secure the shock absorber cups. An appropriate mounting kit is enough, and you can install this piece of iron in your car without any modifications. Such a spacer stabilizes the position of the shock absorbers when cornering. They tend to converge towards each other, which is reflected in the contact of the tire surface with asphalt and in the rigidity of the entire structure. After installing this car suspension element, you will notice that it is more “obedient” and responds better to your commands.
What cup spacers for the car?
Shock absorbers are installed on cars on the front and rear axles. Therefore, it is possible to install stiffeners on both the front and rear suspension. The strut in the engine compartment doesn’t get in the way (except when fiddling with the engine), but when installed in the trunk, you will lose space. Therefore, it is usually not installed in a car for everyday driving. However, it must be admitted that this definitely improves the “sticking” of the tires to the ground.
Suspension strut on transverse levers - why?
In addition to a piece of metal on the cups, you can also install a spacer under the engine. In this way, you connect the control levers, which improves the handling of the car. How does such an element work? When cornering, the leaning wheels cause the wishbones to extend outward. The brace prevents this, resulting in a significant increase in stiffness and improved stability in the arches. Of course, such elements (correctly modified) can also be installed on the rear suspension.
Universal cup pillars - does it make sense?
If you don't need a completely custom solution, then the Adjustable Universal Stand is the solution for you. It is usually slightly less expensive than specialized products and does not provide the same rigidity as non-regulated products. However, it has one important advantage - in older cars, its width can be adjusted to the distance between the cups. Remember that under the influence of operation and a mileage of several hundred thousand kilometers, the shock absorber setting may have changed slightly. Therefore, such adjustable elements may be particularly suitable for older types of vehicles.
Rack installation - how to do it?
Once you buy the right kit, it's pretty easy to install on the glasses. Just unscrew the fasteners on the cups (they may differ depending on the car model) and place the mounting holes of the spacers there. Then all you have to do is tighten the nuts very hard - and that's basically it.
Sometimes you can run into a problem, especially if you already have a fairly old car. You will then notice that the holes are not properly aligned. This is not a manufacturer's fault, but a sign of wear on the suspension. All you have to do is raise the car a little and the spreader will snap into place without too much trouble.
Is it worth installing a spacer on the car?
There are many advantages to this solution. First, you will immediately gain more confidence in driving. The car will behave more predictably, and in corners it will not roll to the sides. When you drive over large potholes or a curb, the body won't work as hard. If your ears suffer from crackling dimpled plastic, then after installing the rack in the car, you will probably breathe a sigh of relief.
Does the rack installation have disadvantages?
However, it must be said that the strut has its drawbacks. If there is little space in the engine bay, adding an extra element can further reduce it. On the other hand, the element that connects the wishbones makes the car "walk" sideways when driving. Of course, it will be stiffer in corners, but the stance will help reduce comfort on bumps, which will be more noticeable. Therefore, putting it in the car every day is not always the best idea.
It is up to you to decide whether the cup spacer fits your car. Undoubtedly, it will provide a lot of comfort and confidence while driving, especially when cornering. However, this is not a perfect solution, so consider if you need it for everyday driving.
