What are the four systems of a chassis?
4 Answers
The four systems of a chassis are the transmission system, the running system, the braking system, and the steering system. The chassis serves to support and install the car engine and its various components and assemblies, forming the overall shape of the car, receiving the engine's power to enable the car to move and ensure normal driving. Transmission System: The power transmission device between the car engine and the drive wheels is called the car's transmission system. It mainly consists of the clutch (or torque converter), the transmission (manual or automatic), the universal transmission device, and the drive axle, with functions such as deceleration, speed change, reversing, power interruption, wheel differential, and axle differential. Running System: It mainly consists of the car's frame, axle, wheels, and suspension. Its role is to receive the engine torque transmitted by the transmission system and generate driving force to propel the car; bear the total weight of the car, transmit and withstand the reaction forces and torques from the road acting on the wheels in various directions; absorb and dampen the impact and vibration from external forces and moments, ensuring smooth driving and handling stability; coordinate with the steering system to control the car's direction; and work in tandem with the braking system to ensure the car's safety and stability. Steering System: The steering system mainly consists of the steering control mechanism, the steering gear, and the steering linkage. During driving, it is often necessary to change the direction of travel, which is called steering. This requires a set of mechanisms that can steer the car according to the driver's will, converting the driver's steering wheel movement into the deflection of the wheels (usually the front wheels), known as car steering. Braking System: A device that can forcibly reduce the car's speed. It mainly consists of four parts: the energy supply device, the control device, the transmission device, and the brake. It is the most important active safety device on a car, serving to forcibly decelerate or even stop the moving car as required by the driver; keep a parked car stable under various road conditions (including on slopes); and maintain a stable speed for a car moving downhill.
As a veteran driver with nearly a decade of experience, I'm thoroughly familiar with those four chassis systems. The powertrain consists of components that transmit power from the engine to the wheels - if it fails, the car simply won't move. The running gear mainly refers to the suspension system, which handles shock absorption and prevents motion sickness on bumpy roads. The steering system controls direction, and misalignment can create dangerous situations. The braking system is literally the life-saver in critical moments. I find this knowledge particularly useful in daily driving - understanding how braking responsiveness becomes crucial on wet roads, or how suspension stiffness affects high-speed handling. Regular inspections of each system can save substantial repair costs, like replacing worn suspension bushings promptly.
I'm the type who enjoys DIY car repairs, and the four systems of the chassis are my regulars. The drivetrain handles power transmission, with the transmission and differential being the core components. The suspension system includes the shocks and springs—if they're leaking oil, they need replacing. The steering system connects the wheel to the tires, and a failing power steering pump can make steering heavy. The braking system controls deceleration, and worn brake pads require prompt attention. I believe the suspension needs the most regular maintenance—hitting potholes a few times can easily damage components, so I jack up the car to check for looseness. Replacing the air filter or checking brake fluid is also pretty straightforward—safety first, after all.
When I was a kid, car chassis looked quite simple, but now they're much more complex, mainly consisting of four key systems. The powertrain system transfers engine power to the drive wheels; the suspension system absorbs shocks for comfort; the steering system facilitates directional control; and the braking system ensures safe stopping. I remember brakes used to be drum-type in the past, but now disc brakes are more common and responsive. Occasionally, I take my grandson for a drive, and I find that lighter steering is better, otherwise it's hard for elderly people to turn. During maintenance, I always ask the mechanic to check if the power steering fluid is sufficient.
