Which is better, leaf spring or coil spring?
When it comes to vehicle suspension systems, the choice between leaf spring and coil spring is a longstanding debate. Both suspension types have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the "better" option ultimately depends on the specific needs and requirements of the vehicle and its intended use.
Leaf Spring Suspension
Leaf spring suspension systems use a series of curved metal leaves, or plates, that are stacked and secured at one end. The leaves are designed to flex and compress when the vehicle encounters bumps or uneven terrain, providing a smooth and controlled ride. Leaf springs are known for their durability, simplicity, and ability to handle heavy loads, making them a popular choice for trucks, SUVs, and other large vehicles. Leaf springs are generally less expensive to manufacture and maintain than coil springs.
Coil Spring Suspension
Coil spring suspension systems use a single, spiral-shaped metal spring that compresses and expands to absorb the impact of road irregularities. Coil springs are often used in smaller, more agile vehicles, such as cars and crossovers, as they provide a more responsive and comfortable ride. Coil springs are generally more compact and can be more easily tuned to the specific needs of the vehicle, allowing for a more customized suspension setup.p>
Comparing Leaf Spring and Coil Spring Suspensions
- Ride Quality: Coil springs typically offer a smoother, more comfortable ride, especially on paved roads, while leaf springs are better suited for off-road and heavy-duty applications.
- Load Capacity: Leaf springs are generally better equipped to handle heavier loads, making them a better choice for trucks, trailers, and other vehicles that need to carry significant weight.
- Maintenance: Leaf springs require less maintenance than coil springs, as they have fewer moving parts and are less susceptible to wear and tear.
- Cost: Leaf springs are generally less expensive to manufacture and install than coil springs.
- Customization: Coil springs offer more flexibility in terms of tuning and customization, allowing for a more personalized suspension setup.
Ultimately, the choice between leaf spring and coil spring suspension comes down to the specific needs and requirements of the vehicle and its intended use. Leaf springs are often the better choice for heavy-duty applications, while coil springs are more suitable for lighter, more agile vehicles. Many modern vehicles also use a combination of both suspension types, taking advantage of the strengths of each system.
What are the disadvantages of leaf spring suspension?
The ride comfort isn't as great because of the inter-leaf friction between each leaf. Over time, the springs tend to lose shape and can sag. When the sag is uneven, it can alter the cross weight of the vehicle which can affect the handling slightly. This can also change the axle-to-mount angle.
Do leaf springs affect ride quality?
Leaf Springs
However, they provide a stiffer and less comfortable ride compared to coil springs. The stiffness of leaf springs can cause the vehicle to bounce more over bumps, resulting in a less refined driving experience.
What is the strongest type of spring?
Belleville Washers: Belleville washers are often considered some of the strongest springs available. Their conical shape and unique design provide high spring loads in limited spaces. These washers are known for their ability to withstand extreme forces and maintain their performance over extended periods.
Why did they stop using leaf springs?
It's mostly for packaging and cost reasons. Coils are cheap and compact, but transfer load to a single point. Leaf springs take up more room, cost more, but transfer load to a wider area. That's why you still see leaf springs in larger vehicles designed to carry big payloads.
Is leaf spring better than coil spring?
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.
How long do leaf springs usually last?
If not exposed to road salt or overloaded, leaf springs can last the lifetime of your vehicle. However, you can expect their lifespan to diminish if frequently abused or driven across salty roadways. On the other hand, rubber bushings typically last 10-15 years if the vehicle is maintained correctly.
Why does Dodge use coil springs?
Most RAM 2500 models have rear coil springs – made from steel surrounded by rubber – to help hold up the weight of the truck, improving stability, support weight, and absorbing impacts while driving over bumps or uneven terrain.
Are coil or leaf springs better for towing?
Load hauling calls for leaf springs, while passengers favor coils.
How long do leaf springs last?
If not exposed to road salt or overloaded, leaf springs can last the lifetime of your vehicle. However, you can expect their lifespan to diminish if frequently abused or driven across salty roadways. On the other hand, rubber bushings typically last 10-15 years if the vehicle is maintained correctly.
Do any cars still use leaf springs?
Today leaf springs are still used in heavy commercial vehicles such as vans and trucks, SUVs, and railway carriages. For heavy vehicles, they have the advantage of spreading the load more widely over the vehicle's chassis, whereas coil springs transfer it to a single point.
