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For heavy vehicle operators who are putting in hour after hour on Australia’s roads, there’s no compromise when it comes to the importance of improving ride comfort experiences wherever possible. This is where suspension springs can dramatically improve everyday ride experiences. A critical component in how each ride feels, suspension systems also serve important purposes in improving control and safety outcomes in each heavy vehicle, with suspension springs taking the starring role. 

Suspension springs are one of those heavy vehicle truck parts that are invisible until they’re not working at their best. Working hard in the background to minimise the impact of shocks and keep weight evenly distributed, it’s only when they begin to wear or tear that the difference is noticeable. By understanding how suspension springs work, truck fleet operators and managers can enjoy the benefits of better ride comfort while avoiding unnecessary repair costs or off-road time due to suspension spring damage. 

What are suspension springs and what’s their impact on ride comfort for heavy vehicles?

Suspension springs are an integral part of suspension systems, working to absorb the force of varying road terrains and textures. Whether they’re absorbing the impact of potholes, bumps, changing and uneven surfaces, or rubble on the road, suspension springs are able to keep the majority of these forces from ever reaching the vehicle frame itself. 

They also serve a dual purpose for heavy-duty vehicles, working to distribute the vehicle’s weight as evenly as possible across its axles. This function is crucial to improving stability and safety for heavy-duty vehicles that are regularly carrying heavy or shifting loads.

Different kinds of suspension springs serve different purposes, with leaf springs, coil springs and air springs all meeting the needs of different loads and operating conditions. 

What to keep an eye out for when it comes to suspension spring maintenance

As with many truck parts, suspension springs can be supported to perform at their best through regular, preventative maintenance that’s paired with a keen eye for signs of any wear and tear. It can be easy to miss these signs since their role is one that can be taken for granted, but by learning how to recognise these symptoms early on, larger problems can be avoided down the track. Signs of potential suspension spring issues include….

• Increased ‘bounce’ during each ride, or a rougher ride experience overall
• A lean to one side or the other 
• New noises when going over bumps
• Uneven tyre wear
• Less steering responsiveness 
• Increased handling issues

These issues can not only reduce the comfort of heavy vehicle rides, but they can also lead to more significant issues overall in the durability and health of the vehicle’s suspension system. By paying close attention to early signs of suspension spring trouble, significant damage can be avoided through preventative maintenance or timely repairs.

Conclusion

Suspension springs are the invisible heavy lifters delivering improved ride comfort, safety, and vehicle performance in every trip. They play a crucial role supporting heavy vehicle operators who are navigating Australia’s rough terrains, but can only do so when they’re receiving the maintenance and repair care they need for their best function. By understanding their role and keeping note of the signs of damage or wear to look out for, fleet managers and operators can keep vehicles performing at their best, fuelled by healthy suspension springs.