Does the Ford Ranger have leaf springs?
Yes, the Ford Ranger does have leaf springs. The Ford Ranger is a mid-size pickup truck that has been in production since 1983, and it has traditionally used a leaf spring suspension system for its rear axle.
Leaf Spring Suspension in the Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger's rear suspension utilizes a solid rear axle design, which is common in many pickup trucks. This rear axle is connected to the truck's frame using a set of leaf springs. Leaf springs are a type of suspension system that uses a series of curved metal leaves stacked on top of each other to provide support and damping for the rear of the vehicle.
The leaf springs in the Ford Ranger are responsible for several key functions:
- Load Bearing: The leaf springs support the weight of the truck's rear end, including the rear axle, differential, and any cargo or towing loads.
- Ride Comfort: The leaf springs help to absorb and dampen bumps and vibrations from the road, providing a smoother ride for the driver and passengers.
- Stability: The leaf springs help to keep the rear axle firmly planted on the ground, improving the truck's handling and stability, especially when towing or carrying heavy loads.
The use of leaf springs in the Ford Ranger's rear suspension is a tried-and-true design that has been used in many pickup trucks for decades. While more modern suspension systems, such as coil springs or air springs, have become more common in some newer truck models, the leaf spring design continues to be a popular choice for the Ranger due to its durability, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness.
When did Ford stop using front leaf springs?
2005
2005 was the first year that Ford switched from the leaf spring to the coil spring in the front suspension.
When did they stop using leaf springs?
Leaf springs were very common on automobiles until the 1970s when automobile manufacturers shifted primarily to front-wheel drive, and more sophisticated suspension designs were developed using coil springs instead.
Does Ford use leaf springs?
Your leaf springs are not especially prone to failure, but excessive rust can make them more prone to failure. Contact your local Ford service department to have the suspension system in your Ford evaluated and have the leaf springs replaced if necessary.
Do Ford Rangers have shocks or struts?
At the heart of the suspension is the strut assembly, a mechanism that combines a shock absorber and a coil spring into one unit to absorb bumps in the road and to keep the tires in contact with the ground at all times.
What suspension does the Ford Ranger have?
Ford Ranger front suspension is by coil springs and wishbones, while the Ford Ranger rear suspension consists of a live (solid) axle with leaf springs. Both these set-ups are tough and serviceable. The most common upgrade is the Ford Ranger suspension upgrade for towing.
What are the disadvantages of leaf springs?
The disadvantages and main reasons why leaf springs are not used within the majority of Motorsport any more are:
- They weigh much more than alternatives such as coil springs.
- They tend to rust and crack from debris impact and weather easily.
- They take up a lot of space on the chassis.
Do Ford Rangers have leaf springs?
OEM Quality Ford Ranger Leaf Springs for Sale
If you've noticed your reliable Ranger doesn't hold the road the way it used to, or lacks the power to haul and tow heavy loads, it's likely time to replace the springs.
Which is better, leaf spring or coil spring?
Leaf springs are better for heavier vehicles and those who may need to haul more weight. They're also simpler but less adjustable than coil springs. Coil spring suspension systems are better for performance driving as you can fine-tune your suspension. They offer greater comfort and flexibility for improved handling.
Does the 2024 Ranger have leaf springs?
The new Ford Ranger is “all-new” and “redesigned from the ground up,” but that doesn't mean it's literally a clean-sheet design. After all, the new truck shares the old truck's leaf sprung solid rear axle suspension and double-wishbone front suspension — all hanging off a fully boxed ladder frame.
Does Ranger Raptor have leaf springs?
SUSPENSION. One of the most important aspects for a proper off-road vehicle is its suspension. So Ford decided to completely overhaul it for the Raptor compared to the standard Ranger. The leaf springs are replaced by coils and with bespoke aluminium control arms the Raptor has a wider track.
