Fig. 14.1. Front suspension
Through it, the forces acting on the wheels are transmitted to the body. The suspension serves to reduce dynamic loads, reduce body vibrations, soften the impact of the wheels on the unevenness of the road, and ensures stability and smoothness of the car.
The springs and shock absorbers connected together form McPherson shock absorber struts, which are the main element of the suspension, combining the functions of the guide apparatus and the damping element.
The front wheel hub and ball bearing are installed with tension in the steering knuckle. The splines of the drive shaft are inserted into the hub, for which it serves as a support (Fig. 14.2).
Fig. 14.2. Drive shaft and front wheel hub
To reduce noise and vibration, constant velocity joints (CV joints) are used in the drive shaft: RJ type on the hub side and TJ type on the gearbox side.
Warning. It is strictly forbidden to carry out welding and straightening work on suspension elements. Be sure to replace self-locking nuts, as well as bolts with traces of corrosion.