By svtwrc

This is my 1988 Rally Saab 900 T. The left side boot ripped at a rally -X and a few weeks later it made the crunch noise upon slow steering with the throttle applied. I figured it was time for a boot and repacked the Constant velocity joint.

For B5 VW Passat with automatic transmission – a cheap rebuilt joint on the driveaxle can result in driveline vibration when stopped in drive or reverse gear that goes away in neutral. This is why on the B5 Passat or Audi with auto trans, you don’t want a cheap rebuilt axle from your the local parts store. See http://www.myturbodiesel.com/1000q/b5/CV-boot-broken-replacement.htm for the repair procedure and how to replace the CV boot.

The rubber component of the driveshaft assembly, also known as the CV axle, is called the CV boot, This part is essential for protecting the CV joint’s internal components. It is designed to seal off the joint, keeping vital lubrication inside while preventing dirt, moisture, and debris from entering and causing damage. The CV boot is typically secured at both ends with stainless steel clamps, often referred to as CV boot clamps. These clamps hold the boot firmly in place, ensuring a tight seal that helps prolong the lifespan of the CV joint by preventing contaminants from reaching the ball bearings and other moving parts inside.

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Daihatsu CV Joint / CV Joint for Daihatsu

We specialize in manufacturing high-quality CV joints and CV axles for various Daihatsu models, including the mini SUV Daihatsu Rocky, the compact city cars Daihatsu Cuore and Daihatsu Mira, as well as the popular supermini Daihatsu Charade models (75, G10, G11, G100, and G200). Our products are engineered to meet the unique demands of each vehicle, ensuring reliability and optimal performance.

In addition to these specific models, we also offer CV joint and axle solutions for other Daihatsu vehicles. Whether you’re looking to enhance your vehicle’s drivetrain durability or need a direct replacement for your Daihatsu’s existing components, we are here to assist. Please feel free to reach out for more details on our product offerings, compatibility, and pricing. Our team is ready to provide the support and information you need to keep your Daihatsu running smoothly.

The suspension system in a vehicle is a sophisticated network of components designed to connect the wheels and tires to the main body or chassis. This complex system includes various parts like springs, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, ball joints, and stabilizer bars, all working together to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. Beyond comfort, the suspension also plays a vital role in maintaining the vehicle’s stability, handling, and overall safety by managing the vehicle’s response to road conditions and maintaining consistent tire contact with the road surface.

At its core, the suspension system is responsible for absorbing the shocks and impacts from bumps, potholes, and uneven surfaces. By reducing the effects of these irregularities, the suspension helps to ensure that the tires stay connected to the road, allowing for better traction, handling, and control. Without an effective suspension system, a vehicle would be uncomfortable to drive and would handle poorly, especially on rough or winding roads.

Key components of the suspension system include springs, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, ball joints, and stabilizer bars, each serving a unique function:

1. Springs: Springs absorb shocks from the road and provide a cushioning effect, allowing the vehicle to glide more smoothly over rough terrain. The most common types of springs are coil springs, which are widely used in most modern vehicles; leaf springs, typically found in larger vehicles like trucks; and air springs, which use compressed air for additional flexibility and are often found in luxury and heavy-duty applications.
2. Shock Absorbers (Dampers): Shock absorbers, or dampers, work closely with the springs to control the vehicle’s bouncing. When a spring compresses or rebounds due to a bump, the shock absorber dampens this movement by converting kinetic energy into heat, which is then released into the atmosphere. This prevents excessive bouncing, helping the vehicle maintain stability and providing a controlled, steady ride.
3. Struts: Struts are specialized suspension components that combine the functions of both a shock absorber and a spring into a single unit. Many modern vehicles use struts instead of separate springs and shock absorbers, as they offer advantages like reduced weight and improved handling. Struts help enhance ride comfort and stability, contributing to more precise and responsive handling.
4. Control Arms: Control arms link the suspension system to the vehicle’s chassis and manage the movement of the wheels. These arms are typically crafted from durable yet lightweight materials like aluminum or steel to withstand the forces they encounter while ensuring vehicle agility and stability. Control arms are critical in maintaining proper wheel alignment and ensuring smooth wheel motion.
5. Ball Joints: Ball joints serve as flexible pivot points, allowing the wheels to move in various directions while staying securely connected to the suspension system. Used in conjunction with control arms, ball joints support the weight of the vehicle and allow for a range of wheel motion, essential for steering and stability, especially during turns.
6. Stabilizer Bars (Sway Bars): Stabilizer bars, also known as sway bars, reduce body roll and enhance vehicle handling. By linking the suspension on each side of the vehicle, they transfer forces from one side to the other, helping to keep the body level during cornering and reducing the risk of rollover. Stabilizer bars are especially beneficial when taking sharp turns or driving on winding roads, as they help maintain balance and prevent excessive tilting.

In summary, the suspension system is an intricate and finely tuned assembly of parts that collectively provide a smooth and comfortable driving experience. It not only absorbs shocks and bumps but also plays a critical role in stabilizing the vehicle, improving handling, and ensuring the safety of the driver and passengers. Whether on city streets, highways, or off-road trails, the suspension system is essential for both comfort and control, adapting to various road conditions and keeping the vehicle’s tires firmly planted on the ground.

MacPherson strut Suspension

double-wishbone suspension / A-arm suspension

Double-wishbone suspension on Honda Accord 2005 Coupe

How Suspensions Work