telescopic shock absorber

Types of telescopic shock absorbers

A telescopic shock absorber is a crucial component of a vehicle's suspension system that helps maintain stability and control while driving. It minimizes the impact of bumpy roads on the vehicle's body, ensuring the occupants' comfort. Generally, there are two main types of telescopic shock absorbers, namely, twin-tube shocks and mono-tube shocks. Below is an in-depth look at each type.

• Mono-tube shock absorber

  A mono-tube shock absorber has a single cylindrical steel tube that contains the gas and fluid. It is located under the vehicle, where it experiences a lot of road impacts. This makes it suitable for off-road vehicles. The only downside is that it is more expensive than the twin-tube shock absorber. Key features of the mono-tube shock absorber include:

  • It has a single cylinder or tube that holds both the gas and the hydraulic fluid.
  • The tube acts as a piston, dividing the fluid into two chambers. One chamber is for compression, while the other one is for extension.
  • The mono-tube shock absorber is sensitive to temperature changes. It provides consistent resistance to temperature change.
  • Due to its design, this shock absorber has a quick response to changes in the road's surface. It automatically adjusts its damping rate, making it ideal for high-speed cars.
  • It has a lightweight design, which helps improve the car's handling and stability.
  • The mono-tube shock absorber requires little maintenance.

• Twin-tube shock absorber

  The twin-tube shock absorber has two tubes: the inner and outer tubes. The inner tube holds the gas and hydraulic fluid, while the outer tube acts as a reservoir for the hydraulic fluid. The twin-tube shock absorber is affordable and requires a lot of maintenance. Key features of the twin-tube shock absorber include:

  • It has two tubes: the inner and outer tubes. The first tube holds the gas and hydraulic fluid, while the second tube acts as a reservoir for the hydraulic fluid.
  • The twin-tube shock absorber is affordable and requires a lot of maintenance.
  • The design of the twin-tube shock absorber makes it hard to control temperature. Its performance is affected by temperature changes. For instance, during heavy usage, the damping ability reduces.
  • The response speed of the twin-tube shock absorber is low. It doesn't automatically adjust its damping rate.
  • Due to its design, the twin-tube shock absorber is more common in budget-friendly vehicles. It is also suitable for everyday driving.

Specification & Maintenance of Telescopic Shock Absorber

The specifications of telescopic shocks vary depending on their size and the vehicle they are designed for. However, here are general specifications one can expect to see:

• Type of shock absorber

  Different types of telescopic shock absorbers are available, each designed for a specific purpose. For instance, a gas shock absorber has compressed gas, while a twin-tube shock absorber has two cylinders.

• Size

  Length and diameter are used to measure the size of a telescopic shock absorber. It has to be the right size to fit the mounting points of the suspension system. A telescopic shock absorber that is too big or small will not function properly.

• Stroke length

  Each shock absorber is designed with a specific stroke length. This is the distance the piston moves inside the cylinder when the suspension system goes up and down. A long stroke length provides better control of the vehicle's movement and vice versa.

• Force

  Force is measured in newtons and is an important specification when it comes to shock absorbers. This is because it determines how much resistance the shock absorber provides when the vehicle moves. A shock absorber with high force provides more resistance, making it harder for the vehicle to move. This is ideal for heavy vehicles, while lighter vehicles require shock absorbers with low force.

• Mounting

  The mounting points of a telescopic shock absorber are at both ends of the suspension system. It has to be compatible with the mounting system of the vehicle. The mounting points are either eyelet or stem.

• Compression and rebound

  Compression is the shortening of the shock absorber when the suspension system compresses. On the other hand, rebound is the lengthening of the shock absorber when the suspension system expands. The ratio between compression and rebound should be balanced to ensure the vehicle is stable and rides smoothly.

Proper maintenance of telescopic shock absorbers is important for keeping them in good working condition. Here are some maintenance tips:

• 1. Conduct routine checks to ensure nothing is amiss with the telescopic shock absorbers.
• 2. If there is any leakage, ensure it is fixed immediately.
• 3. Ensure the mounting points are tightened to avoid unnecessary movement when the vehicle is in motion.
• 4. Clean the telescopic shock absorber regularly to remove any dirt or debris that may interfere with its function.
• 5. Do not overload the vehicle, as this will put more strain on the shock absorber and it will wear out quickly.

How to Choose Telescopic Shock Absorber

When buying a telescopic shock absorber for resale, customers' needs should come first. This is because the primary purpose of a shock absorber is to give a vehicle the smooth ride it deserves. Therefore, focus on the make and model of the car. A good rule of thumb is to stock shocks for popular cars. One might need to do some research to find out the best-selling cars in the area.

Consider the driving conditions as users of heavy-duty trucks might opt for off-road shock absorbers. Also, take into account the shock absorber type preferred by customers. Will they want a gas-charged shock absorber or a hydraulic shock absorber? Gas-charged shock absorbers are more suitable for a wider range of applications.

One key aspect that determines the suitability of a telescopic shock absorber for a particular vehicle is its size. Ensure to get the right fit by referring to the manufacturer's guide. While at it, check for the warranty offer from the supplier. A good warranty offer is an indication that the product is of good quality.

How to DIY and Replace telescopic shock absorber

Replacing shock absorbers can be a DIY-friendly task for many car owners. However, before embarking on this task, it is advisable to have some mechanical knowledge and ensure that the right tools for the job are available. In a situation where the telescopic shock absorber replacement is beyond a DIYer's capacity, it is better to consult a professional mechanic. Below are steps to replace a telescopic shock absorber.

Tools Needed:

• Socket set
• Wrench set
• Torque wrench
• Jack and jack stands
• Lug nut wrench
• New shock absorbers

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• 1. Preparation
• Park the car on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and ensure the engine is off. Gather all necessary tools and new shock absorbers.
• 2. Safety First
• Ensure the car is in gear or the automatic transmission is in "Park." Set up wheel chocks to prevent movement, and ensure the jack stands are securely placed.
• 3. Removing the Old Shock Absorbers
• 1. Raise the vehicle with a jack and remove the wheels using a lug nut wrench. 2. Use a socket or wrench to remove the bolts securing the lower and upper mounts of the old shock absorber. 3. Carefully pull out the old shock absorber and discard it.
• 4. Installing the New Shock Absorbers 1. Position the new shock absorber in the mounting area. 2. Hand-tighten the bolts for both the lower and upper mounts. 3. Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. 4. Reattach the wheel and lower the vehicle. 5. Repeat the process for the other side of the vehicle. 6. Take a test drive to ensure everything is working properly after completing the replacement.

Q&A

Q1: Are telescopic shock absorbers good or bad?

A1: Shock absorbers are neither good nor bad. They are simply a part of vehicle maintenance. However, telescopic shocks have their pros and cons. Their main advantage is that they take little space and are easy to install. The downside is that they don't work well with heavy loads. Overall, the goodness or badness of a shock absorber depends on the type of vehicle and its usage.

Q2: What do telescopic shocks do?

A2: Telescopic shocks control vehicle movements, especially those caused by springs. They help the vehicle maintain its balance and stability, allowing drivers to steer and drive smoothly. By controlling the up and down movements of the wheels, shocks help the tires maintain contact with the road.

Q3: What are the different types of telescopic shock absorbers?

A3: There are two main types of telescopic shock absorbers: the twin-tube and the mono-tube. The former has an inner and outer cylinder, while the latter has one larger cylinder that holds the gas and oil.

Q4: How long do telescopic shocks last?

A4: Generally, telescopic shocks can last for 30,000 to 50,000 miles. However, their lifespan can be affected by various factors, such as road conditions and weather.