Description and Operation: Notes

The independent front suspension is of the double wishbone type and is mounted on two cross members, the front cross member consisting of a pressed steel fabrication and the rear cross member consisting of an aluminum casting.

The rear cross member provides the mounting points for the power assisted steering gear, the lower arm rear bushings and the engine mounts. The front cross member provides the mounting points for lower arm front bushings and the stabilizer bar.

A vertical swan neck knuckle arm is installed between the lower and upper suspension arms. This wheel knuckle carries the lower arm swivel joint, front hub, ABS rotor, ABS sensor, wheel bearing and brake assembly.

A co-axial strut and spring assembly is installed between the lower arm and vehicle body.

As the road wheel rises, the movement is transmitted to the vertical link, then through the ball joints to the upper and lower arms and the co-axial strut and spring assembly. The spring absorbs the shock and the damper damps any unwanted spring frequencies, which could lead to an unstable vehicle.

A stabilizer bar is mounted via clamps and bushes to the front cross member and is linked via connecting rods to each of the lower arms.

When cornering, weight is naturally transferred to the outer wheel and there is a natural tendency for the inner wheel to lift. The stabilizer bar helps to minimize this by transferring some of the apparent rise of outer wheel to the inner wheel through the links to the lower arms. This helps to provide a smoother ride.