DIY Suspension Development

This unique book takes a completely different approach to do-it-yourself suspension development. First it gives you the theory - in an easy to understand way, non-mathematical way. Then it gives you the practice - the tin-tacks of applying that theory to get excellent results.

The theory includes the natural frequencies of sprung masses, the relationship between static deflection and natural frequency, and how you can use your smart phone to directly measure bounce, pitch and roll frequencies of your car's suspension. Also covered are real and virtual swing-arms, roll centres, and the relationship between roll centre, centre of gravity and body roll. Damping - its function and the two fundamental types - also gets a look-in.

After the theory, it's time for the practice. Three major case studies are used.

The first case study involves designing and building from scratch the air suspension for an ultra-light-weight 3-wheel vehicle... in fact, a vehicle that in total weighed under 20kg. The design decisions were about having sufficient suspension travel, achieving zero bump steer, and having effective roll stiffness.... all with very low weight.

Then covered is a front wheel drive car, with special emphasis on the design selection of custom springs that provided the correct front/rear stiffness and ride height change.

Next is a traditional rear-wheel drive car. In this case, the decision was made to use one company's complete suspension kit for this model - new springs, dampers, anti-roll bars, and revised rear axle location. Step-by-step pictures show the complete fitting sequence.

Finally, one-off suspension changes are covered - adding a front camber kit, fitting a rear anti-roll bar on a front-wheel drive, and - more complexly - altering the front/rear torque split in an electronically-controlled all-wheel drive car.

Whether you're just starting an interest in suspension, or would like to better understand the theory, this book is a must-have for every car enthusiast.