WAEC SSCE Auto Mechanics
Study notes for SUSPENSION SYSTEM — part of the WAEC SSCE Auto Mechanics syllabus. 1 learning objectives with explanations and exam tips.
The suspension system connects your car's wheels to the body and absorbs bumps from rough roads. Think of driving a Lagos commercial bus through pothole-filled streets—without suspension, every hole would jolt passengers terribly. The system has two main types: rigid beam suspension, where both wheels move together, and independent suspension, where each wheel moves separately for smoother rides.
Springs are the key components. Semi-elliptic leaf springs, common in Nigerian trucks and buses, are cheap and durable but give a harder ride. Coil springs offer better comfort but cost more. Both types store energy when compressed.
Dampers or shock absorbers control how springs bounce. Without them, your car would bounce endlessly after hitting a bump. Modern cars use coil springs with dampers together for optimal comfort and handling on Nigerian roads.
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