Abstract: A shock absorber including a cylinder having a first chamber and a second chamber where at least one of the first chamber and the second chamber includes a fluid. A piston is configured for reciprocal movement within the cylinder and defines at least one through-hole for enabling the fluid to move between the first and second chambers. A floating disc and a floating retainer are each movably connected to the piston, the floating disc and the floating retainer defining a space between the floating disc and the floating retainer, the space having a cross-sectional area. A seal element is seated in the space and has a cross-sectional area equal to the cross-sectional area of the space where an entire surface of the seal element engages and forms a seal with an inner wall of the cylinder during the reciprocal movement of the piston.

Abstract: A piston assembly for a monotube shock absorber includes a piston body with a non-symmetrical outer band that provides a bearing surface against a shock tube wall. The outer band defines a first diameter that is a maximum outer diameter of the piston assembly. The piston body also includes an outer surface portion that is defined by a second diameter less than the first diameter, and which comprises a non-contact surface. The outer band extends in a serpentine manner about an outer circumference of the piston body such that recesses are formed between the shock tube wall and the non-contact surface. Side ports are located within these recesses to allow a blow-off area to be increased by incorporating annular lands into the piston assembly.

Abstract: A stabilization system for a motor vehicle includes an independently actuatable airbag assembly disposed at each wheel. A damper assembly disposed at each wheel is lockable to maintain the motor vehicle in the desired level position. The system includes a controller in communication with the airbag and damper assembly and a sensor assembly that senses a relative position of the body of the motor vehicle relative to a level plane and adjusts the airbag assembly in order to attain a level position of the motor vehicle and once that level position is attained, lock the damper assembly in order to provide a foundation-like feel to the motor home in a parked position.