Abstract: An upper mount assembly for a suspension strut which incorporates an elastomer bushing operatively connecting the piston rod to support structure that works in shear over initial travel but has compression load buildup at the limit of mount travel. The mount assembly is a unitized multi-element construction having a jounce bumper to provide a load path for suspension spring assist and a load deflection curve to improve suspension characteristics. In this invention, load buildup is achieved in jounce and rebound with the use of a rate washer which is moved upwardly by the strut in jounce movement. Initial travel works the bushing in shear but the elastomer becomes compressed between the washer and an outside metal wall to provide increasing spring rate. When the rod moves vertically downwardly in rebound, the washer controls the load buildup and compresses the upper portion of the jounce bumper for soft entry into rebound.

Abstract: Automotive vehicle wheel and spring suspension of the type including a transversely extending leaf spring is adapted to effect adjustment of the vehicle sprung mass or chassis to a desired height or level attitude by manipulation of a spring connector assembly effective to raise and lower the outboard end of the spring independently of alteration of the wheel guidance apparatus of the suspension.