Automobile shock absorbers as an element of a car suspension.

Regardless of what environment is inside the device, shock absorbers are expected to improve driving comfort. Of course, this is not their only task, and the components themselves can be divided into several groups. However, it must be said directly that these elements largely depend on how this car is driven. How are these mechanisms arranged and what is worth knowing about them? What species can be found in the store's offer? Find out why they are so important while driving!

Car shock absorber - how is it arranged?

The shock absorber in a car consists of a single or double tube, valves, a piston and a medium responsible for receiving energy. The design of a component is affected by the substance used inside. The described suspension elements can be divided into:

• middle type;
• performance characteristics;
• construction elements.

How does a shock absorber work in a car?

The effect of driving over bumps is an additional energy, which is expressed in the reciprocating movement of the piston rod. It is placed inside or next to the spring and determines its course. Under the action of the compression force, the shock absorber rod moves down. This forces the oil to pass through valves that allow a certain amount of oil to pass through. In this way, the rebound of the shock absorber and spring can be limited.

Types of shock absorbers used in the suspension

Shock absorbers gas (gas-oil)

The simplest division includes gas and oil shock absorbers. The first of them accumulate oil and nitrogen inside. The latter prevents foaming of the oil during high-speed operation of the shock absorber. The gas shock absorber in the car is a single-tube design. This mechanism includes:

• pipe (as housing and work space);
• piston rod;
• piston;
• valves;
• oil chamber;
• floating piston;
• nitrogen gas chamber.

Oil-filled automotive shock absorbers

Time for the second type of shock absorbers. This is a design that uses two pipes and oil, which is an energy-receiving medium. As for the nozzles, the first of them forms the body, and the second - the cylinder in which the rod and piston move. The main elements that make up oil shock absorbers are:

• working chamber;
• protective sleeve;
• outer cylinder;
• inner cylinder;
• piston rod;
• piston;
• leveling chamber;
• base valve.

Shock absorbers - before. Device specifications

The shock absorber in the car, located on the front axle, usually works inside the suspension spring. It has special cups on which the spring rests. Cups allow you to control the position of the shock absorbers. This design prevents maximum spring deflection, which improves ride comfort. However, the downside, of course, is the assembly of such an element in case of replacement. To place the spring inside the cups, you must use special pullers.

Rear shock absorbers - check how they are arranged

The shock absorbers used on the rear axle are located next to or integrated with the suspension springs. The construction method depends on the manufacturer of the car model. The shock absorber components on the rear axle are not as vulnerable to damage or transmit as much vibration as the front ones. Naturally, more vibration occurs at the front, as this is where the engine is installed.

Sports shock absorbers - what are they?

One of the types of described car parts is their sports type. Why can these suspension elements be called that? Because they are built in such a way as to provide maximum grip of this axle with the ground at the expense of driving comfort. That is why tuned cars use sport shock absorbers, the characteristics of which usually make everyday driving impossible. Such shock-absorbing elements transmit much more vibrations to the car interior, but provide greater body rigidity in corners.

What shock absorber to buy for a car?

If you are not going to change the characteristics of the suspension, then bet on the same type that you had before. It is selected by the manufacturer to the weight of the car and other suspension components. You can also slightly change the character of the car by improving the quality of vibration damping or stiffening the suspension. To do this, choose sports shock absorbers that will be adapted to a specific car model.

Oil or gas shock absorbers - what to choose?

The first of them is cheap shock absorbers, the purchase of which will not hit the wallet. However, they are heavy and it is impossible to adjust the force of their compression. Their main advantage (besides the price) is durability. Gas-powered products are stiffer, resulting in less suspension travel. In addition, they are more expensive than oil dampers and provide less comfort when riding over bumps. Therefore, the price of shock absorbers should not be the main criterion, because it cannot be said that cheaper or more expensive is definitely the best choice. Just fit the element to your vehicle.

How often do you need to change shock absorbers?

First, you should check their condition. Leaking shock absorbers must be replaced immediately. A decrease in the quality of their work or noise caused by bending is also a reason for repair. Also remember that shock absorbers must be replaced in pairs on each axle. You cannot afford to change one element, even if the other is fully functional. These items are best replaced every 100 XNUMX. km.

Shock absorbers are extremely important, because they are responsible not only for driving comfort. They also prevent the wheels from slipping when driving over uneven terrain and when cornering. Thus, these elements have a great impact on the cushioning and safety of all people traveling in a car. Do not underestimate the disadvantages of shock absorbers. Replace them approximately every 100 km to avoid sudden breakdowns while driving.