What is the difference between placing the leaf spring above and below the rear axle?
2 Answers
The difference between placing the leaf spring above and below the rear axle is that positioning it below provides better stability, lowers the chassis, and reduces the center of gravity. On the other hand, placing it above improves ground clearance. Below is relevant information about the rear axle: 1. Introduction: The rear axle refers to the component of the rear drive shaft that transmits power in a vehicle. It consists of two half-axles, enabling differential movement. It also serves as a device to support the wheels and connect the rear wheels. In front-wheel-drive vehicles, the rear axle only functions as a load-bearing component. If the front axle is not the drive axle, the rear axle becomes the drive axle, in which case it not only bears the load but also drives, reduces speed, and performs differential functions. 2. Maintenance: During vehicle use, it is essential to regularly clean the mud and dust from the vent plug on the rear axle housing. Every 3,000 km during maintenance, remove, clean, and unclog the vent plug to ensure smooth airflow. Blocked airflow can increase pressure inside the axle housing, leading to oil leaks at the joints and seals. Additionally, check the level and quality of the lubricating oil, and add or replace it if necessary.
The difference in the position of the leaf spring, whether below or above the rear axle, mainly affects the vehicle's center of gravity. Installing the leaf spring below the axle lowers the center of gravity, making the vehicle more stable, especially when carrying heavy loads, as it reduces excessive swaying. However, this setup is more prone to scraping the chassis on bumpy roads. Conversely, moving the leaf spring above the rear axle raises the vehicle's ground clearance, which is better for off-road or rough terrain driving, but it can make the vehicle feel less stable during high-speed turns. Many trucks and buses prefer the lower installation for enhanced safety and stability, while vans or construction vehicles might opt for the higher position to handle more uphill or heavy-duty tasks. If you hear noises from the chassis while driving, promptly check the spring installation to avoid prolonged damage to the bearings. Ultimately, the choice depends on the vehicle's intended use—lower installation is sufficient for frequent city driving, while opting for the higher position for heavier loads may not be worth the trade-offs.
