Abstract: A vehicle suspension strut includes a generally cylindrical housing having a first end and a second end. The housing defines a generally longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends, and a housing interior for containing a fluid. A first closure closes the first end of the housing and includes a piston receiving aperture. A second closure is provided for closing the second end of the housing. A piston is extendable through the piston receiving aperture, and is moveable in an axial direction between a fully collapsed position and an extended position. The piston includes a first end disposed adjacent to the first end of the housing and exteriorly of the housing exterior, and a second end disposed adjacent to the second end of the housing and within the housing interior. The piston also includes an insertable portion having a length L.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension system is disclosed, to which can be mounted a vehicle wheel and tire, with the tire having a tread surface defining a cylindrical plane. The suspension system includes a cross frame member having a relatively inboard portion and an outboard portion, the outboard portion includes an upper spring seat portion. A spindle knuckle includes a spindle to which a wheel can be coupled. The spindle is coupled to the spindle knuckle. A suspension strut is coupled between the spindle knuckle and the cross frame member. The suspension strut includes a strut housing having a lower end and an upper end, a piston axially moveable with respect to the strut housing, and a lower spring seat fixedly coupled to the strut housing. A coil spring is disposed concentrically around the strut housing. The coil spring includes an upper end received by the upper spring seat portion, and a lower end received by the lower spring seat.

Abstract: A torque box assembly for mounting between a vehicle frame side rail and a body side sill for supporting a spool type trailing link isolator. The torque box assembly includes two interconnected box members and two mounting flanges, with the spool type trailing link resiliently connected to one of the box members.

Abstract: A torque box assembly for mounting between a vehicle frame side rail and a body side sill for supporting a rear suspension trailing link. The torque box assembly includes two interconnected box members and two mounting flanges, with the trailing link resiliently connected to one of the box members.