What kind of suspension does a Dodge Ram have?
The suspension system of a Dodge Ram is a crucial component that significantly impacts the vehicle's performance, handling, and comfort. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I aim to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the types of suspension systems used in Dodge Ram trucks, their functions, and the benefits they offer.
Types of Suspension Systems in Dodge Ram
Dodge Ram trucks are known for their robust build and capability, and their suspension systems are designed to support these attributes. The primary types of suspension systems found in Dodge Ram models include:
- Front Suspension: Most Dodge Ram trucks utilize a short/long arm (SLA) suspension design. This setup features upper and lower control arms that provide excellent handling and ride quality.
- Rear Suspension: The rear suspension typically consists of a leaf spring system, which is ideal for heavy loads and towing. This design allows for better weight distribution and stability.
- Air Suspension: Some newer models offer an optional air suspension system, which provides adjustable ride height and improved comfort. This system can adapt to different driving conditions, enhancing both performance and comfort.
Functions of the Suspension System
The suspension system in a Dodge Ram serves several essential functions:
- Support Vehicle Weight: The suspension supports the weight of the vehicle, ensuring stability and safety.
- Absorb Shocks: It absorbs shocks from the road, providing a smoother ride and protecting the vehicle's components.
- Maintain Tire Contact: The suspension keeps the tires in contact with the road, improving traction and handling.
- Enhance Comfort: A well-designed suspension system enhances passenger comfort by minimizing road noise and vibrations.
Benefits of a Quality Suspension System
Investing in a quality suspension system for your Dodge Ram can lead to numerous benefits:
- Improved Handling: A well-maintained suspension system enhances the vehicle's handling, making it more responsive to driver inputs.
- Increased Load Capacity: The leaf spring design in the rear suspension allows for better load management, making it ideal for towing and hauling.
- Enhanced Safety: A functional suspension system contributes to overall vehicle safety by ensuring better control and stability.
- Longer Tire Life: Proper suspension alignment and maintenance can lead to even tire wear, extending the life of your tires.
In conclusion, understanding the suspension system of your Dodge Ram is vital for maintaining its performance and ensuring a comfortable driving experience. Regular inspections and maintenance can help you enjoy all the benefits that a well-functioning suspension system has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of suspension does a Ram 1500 have?
The RAM 1500 uses an independent front suspension setup, which typically combines coil springs, control arms, and struts or shock absorbers. This design provides a smooth ride by allowing each wheel to move independently. While great for comfort, it may not handle heavy-duty loads or rugged terrains as effectively.
Does a Dodge Ram 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 is better, leaf springs or coil?
Coil spring suspensions provide more range of suspension movement and allow the user a wider turning envelop through the suspension range than the leaf springs. Practically all high-performance applications use coil springs where possible if the budget permits.
What kind of suspension does a Ram 1500 have?
The RAM 1500 uses an independent front suspension setup, which typically combines coil springs, control arms, and struts or shock absorbers. This design provides a smooth ride by allowing each wheel to move independently. While great for comfort, it may not handle heavy-duty loads or rugged terrains as effectively.
Do all Ram trucks have air suspension?
In the world of Ram trucks, you'll find air suspensions on the Ram 1500 and Ram 2500/3500 Heavy Duty models. These suspensions offer a smoother ride and more control for drivers. If you're considering an upgrade or replacement, you might want to improve your car's performance with Vigor Air Ride air suspensions.
What is the most common problem with the Ram 1500?
Let's get to it.
- Electrical Issues. Unfortunately, there is a host of Ram 1500 problems relating to electrical failure.
- Cam/Lifter Failure.
- Leaking Coolant.
- Transmission Difficulties.
- Exhaust Manifold Gaskets And Bolts.
- Rear Axle Pinion Nut Failure.
- Things To Know.
Do Ram 1500 have rear shocks?
Refer to the video on “How to jack your RAM 1500 safely” for guidance. Step 4: Place the vehicle on jack stands. Step 5: In order to change the rear shocks, you will need to take off the wheels to have full access. Step 6: Don't forget to put the wheels under the vehicle.
How do I know if my truck has shocks or struts?
Look Underneath Your Vehicle.
In many cases, shocks will look like a hand pump. Struts, on the other hand, typically look like a coil spring with a shock in the center, but occasionally, the shock is mounted next to the spring.
Can Ram air suspension be turned off?
To disable the air suspension on your Ram 1500, go to the infotainment settings and look for "aero mode." Turn off this feature to deactivate the air suspension system.
When did Ram switch to coil springs?
In 2014, Ram did just that and introduced a rear suspension design that had never before been used in a heavy-duty pickup truck.
