Abstract: An apparatus, kit, and method for improving a motor vehicle. Embodiments include right and left frame supports, a cross beam, and two mounts for air bump stops, for instance, outboard of the vehicle frame. Damage to the frame can be prevented in severe suspension impacts and vehicle handling and performance can be improved both on and off road surfaces. Certain embodiments include impact pads clamped to the axle of the vehicle, hardware or bolts that attach components together or to the frame of the vehicle, or a combination thereof. Components can be configured to attach to the vehicle frame. Particular embodiments support the frame at the top, bottom, outboard side, or a combination thereof, and some frame supports have a channel portion, a hollow box portion, and two parallel gusset plates, for example. In some embodiments, the cross beam can fit between and attach to the gusset plates.

Abstract: A striker compresses a bumper of a jounce bumper assembly. The striker includes a contact surface configured to face the bumper of the jounce bumper assembly. The striker also includes at least one ridge extending from the contact surface. The at least one ridge is engageable with the bumper for minimizing radial expansion of the bumper at the contact surface as the bumper is compressed.

Abstract: A suspension arm (1) for a vehicle including a bearing (4) and a journal (2). The bearing (4) has at least one elastic sub-element (4c) and the bearing (4) is arranged on the journal (2) of the suspension arm (1) and encloses the journal (2). The journal (2) and the bearing (4) are designed to co-operate with one another in such manner that the bearing (4), relative to the journal (2), has a transition fit. The bearing (4) is fixed on the journal (2) of the suspension arm (1) by a fastening element (3).

Abstract: The present application provides a rubber spring, including a first mounting plate and a second mounting plate, the first mounting plate having a first V-shaped plate with an opening angle larger than 90°, and the second mounting plate having a second V-shaped plate with an opening angle larger than 90°; and a plurality of rubber layers arranged between the first V-shaped plate and the second V-shaped plate, wherein each two adjacent rubber layers are separated by an intermediate plate, the intermediate plate is a V-shaped plate with an opening angle larger than 90°, and openings of the first V-shaped plate, the second mounting plate and the intermediate plate are facing the same direction. The present application further provides a rubber suspension system and a truck.

Abstract: A multipiece cushioning assembly adapted to be arranged in combination with a shock absorbing apparatus. The multipiece cushioning assembly is disposed between a pair of radial shoulders on first and second members telescoping members of the shock absorbing apparatus arranged in operable combination relative to each other. The radial shoulders on the first and second members limit travel of the shock absorbing apparatus, and with the multipiece cushioning assembly including a plurality of elastomeric bumpers arranged in a generally circular array for absorbing over-travel of the first and second members relative to each other and for readily permitting replacement of the multipiece cushioning assembly while maintaining the first and second members in operable combination relative to each other.

Abstract: A load cushion for a suspension system including a first cushion portion, a second cushion portion, a base plate having a flat top side and a bottom side, and a rate plate having a flat top side and a flat bottom side, wherein the top side of the base plate is parallel to the top side of the rate plate, wherein the first cushion portion extends away from the top side of the rate plate and has at least one vertical cross section having two tapering edges that extend towards each other as they extend upwardly from the top side of the rate plate until they end at an exposed upper surface, and wherein the second cushion portion extends between the top side of the base plate and the bottom side of the rate plate.

Abstract: A suspension having a frame attachment portion having an opening with a spring mount positioned therein, and a first shear spring positioned between a wall of the spring mount and a side wall of the opening, and a second shear spring positioned between another wall of the spring mount and another wall of the opening. The first spring mount comprises an inboard part and an outboard part with a first through-hole positioned therein adapted to allow passage of a first connecting rod therethrough, wherein the first connecting rod connects the inboard and outboard parts together, and wherein the first shear spring is compressed between a wall of the spring mount and a wall of the opening, and wherein the second shear spring is compressed between a wall of the spring mount and a wall of the opening.

Abstract: An elastomeric bushing includes an inner component, first, second and third elastomeric or plastic members and an outer component. The first elastomeric or plastic member is disposed over the inner component. The second elastomeric or plastic member is disposed over the first elastomeric or plastic member. The third elastomeric or plastic member is disposed over the second elastomeric or plastic member. The outer component is disposed over the third elastomeric or plastic member.

Abstract: It is an object to obtain excellent suspension performance and effectively enhance steering stability during vehicle turning, with a simple configuration. A vehicle suspension apparatus comprises an upper lateral link (5) and a lower lateral link (6) each having one end (5a, 6a) swingably mounted to a wheel carrying member (1) and the other end (5b, 6b) swingably supported by a vehicle body, while being installed to extend in a vehicle widthwise direction, and a lower link (7) having one end mounted to a lower portion of the wheel carrying member (1) at a position rearward of a rotary shaft of a wheel, and the other end swingably supported by the vehicle body. The one ends (5a, 6a) of the upper and lower lateral links (5, 6) are mounted, respectively, to an upper portion and a lower portion of the wheel carrying member (1) at positions frontward of the rotary shaft of the wheel.

Abstract: An independent suspension with no axle is disclosed which includes a hanger and a control arm having opposite first and second ends pivotally mounted to the hanger between the first and second ends. The suspension unit further includes a spindle arm mounted to the first end of the control arm. The suspension unit also includes a jounce spring on the control arm and a rebound spring mounted between the control arm and the hanger. The control arm and hanger are configured such that when the first end of the control arm pivots towards the frame of the vehicle the jounce spring is compressed and the rebound spring is relaxed and when the first end of the control arm moves away from the frame the jounce spring is relaxed and the rebound spring is compressed.

Abstract: To provide a toe correct bush having excellent durability and a novel structure, the toe correct bush effectively achieving improvement in running stability during steering with a toe correction function and improvement in straight line performance with an intermediate restraining plate. A first intermediate restraining member is provided between opposing surfaces of an inner inclined portion and an outer inclined portion and is fixed to a compression rubber, the first intermediate restraining member spreading and being isolated from the opposing surfaces of the inner inclined portion and the outer inclined portion. A second intermediate restraining member is provided independent from the first intermediate restraining member between opposing surfaces of an inner flange and an outer flange and is fixed to a connecting rubber, the second intermediate restraining member spreading and being isolated from the opposing surfaces of the inner flange and the outer flange.

Abstract: A track rod for laterally locating an axle assembly with respect to a vehicle frame. The disclosed track rod is especially useful for large off highway vehicles. The track rod includes a first end piece pivotally connected to a vehicle structure such as a frame and a second end piece pivotally connected to a vehicle axle, one of the end pieces includes a housing having a fixed, force-receiving member The housing is adapted to receive a first elastomenc member located in a juxtaposed position with respect to one side of the fixed member A floating plate slidably received in the housing is located in a juxtaposed position with respect to the first elastomenc member The other end piece includes a portion receivable by the housing. A second elastomenc member is positioned between the end piece portion and the fixed member.

Abstract: A V-shaped torque rod includes an apex joint assembly that is attached to a component of a vehicle using only a single fastener. The apex joint assembly includes a housing, an inner metal, an elastomeric member disposed between the housing and the inner metal and a post that engages the inner metal. The single fastener extends through the inner metal and through the post to secure the apex joint assembly to the vehicle. The post can be a tapered post or the post can be a non-tapered post.

Abstract: A system for applying a force having variable intensity includes a magneto-rheological (MR) elastomer spring configured to generate the force and characterized by a selectively variable spring rate. The system also includes an electromagnet arranged relative to the MR elastomer spring and configured to generate a magnetic field having selectively variable intensity. The system additionally includes a power supply configured to generate an electric current sufficient to power the electromagnet. The spring rate of the MR elastomer spring is varied in response to the intensity of the magnetic field. A vehicle employing the above described system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A tie-plate comprising a lower mounting flange that is removably attachable to a first frame hanger and to a second frame hanger, wherein the lower mounting flange includes a first set of attachment holes that correspond to a set of attachment holes at the first frame hanger, wherein the lower mounting flange includes a second set of attachment holes that correspond to a set of attachment holes at the second frame hanger, an extending member having a first end that extends at an angle from the lower mounting flange; and an upper mounting flange extending from a second end of the extending member, wherein the upper mounting flange has one or more mounting holes adapted for attachment of the tie-plate to an undercarriage of a vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the use of EPDM (ethylene-propylene diene monomer) polymer compounds used in place of NR (natural rubber), SBR (styrene butadiene rubber), polyisoprene and other polymers in energy absorption elastomeric systems. In one embodiment a method of continuously manufacturing an EPDM based compound cured via a peroxide based cure system and used in an energy absorption elastomeric system is disclosed. The method includes the steps of forming a continuous part from a compound based on ethylene-propylene diene terpolymer and then curing the part via a continuous process and optionally cutting the final part to the appropriate length. Various advantages are achieved via the use of peroxide cured EPDM as replacements for NR, SBR, polyisoprene and other polymers.

Abstract: To provide a toe correct bush having excellent durability and a novel structure, the toe correct bush effectively achieving improvement in running stability during steering with a toe correction function and improvement in straight line performance with an intermediate restraining plate. A first intermediate restraining member is provided between opposing surfaces of an inner inclined portion and an outer inclined portion and is fixed to a compression rubber, the first intermediate restraining member spreading and being isolated from the opposing surfaces of the inner inclined portion and the outer inclined portion. A second intermediate restraining member is provided independent from the first intermediate restraining member between opposing surfaces of an inner flange and an outer flange and is fixed to a connecting rubber, the second intermediate restraining member spreading and being isolated from the opposing surfaces of the inner flange and the outer flange.

Abstract: A shear spring comprising a base and a V-shaped surface opposite the base adapted to mate with a corresponding V-shaped surface positioned on a side wall of a spring mount, and an elastomeric material positioned between the base and the V-shaped surface, wherein the base includes a first flange extending away from the V-shaped surface and adapted to be positioned outwardly from a first edge of a side wall of a spring module, and wherein the base includes a second flange extending away from the V-shaped surface and adapted to be positioned outwardly from a second edge of the side wall of the spring module, where the first flange and the second flange are positioned in parallel planes.

Abstract: A rubber spring device is formed by alternately laminating a plurality of layers of hard plates whose linear dimension W in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of each equalizer bar is shorter in plan view than a linear dimension H in a direction parallel to an axle direction, and rubber layers. The rubber spring device is disposed between an end portion of each equalizer bar and a center axle in an articulated dump truck, and is allowed to function as a suspension. Thus, even when the rubber spring device is deformed into an accordion shape, peak positions of an internal stress within each rubber layer can be dispersed and reduced, thereby preventing generation of cracks within each rubber layer.

Abstract: A bump stopper for a suspension system that has at least a parting line along a longitudinal direction of the bumper stopper, may include at least two convex portions coaxially connected each other in the longitudinal direction of the bump stopper and contacting each other in a compressed state, a first array including first reinforcing blocks integrally formed on the respective convex portions along the parting line, each abutting first reinforcing block having a first contact angle therebetween in the longitudinal direction of the bumper stopper, and a second array including second reinforcing blocks integrally formed on the respective convex portions, each abutting second reinforcing block having a second contact angle therebetween in the longitudinal direction of the bumper stopper, wherein the first array is disposed with a predetermined angle from the first array along a circumferential direction of the bumper stopper.

Abstract: A rubber spring device is formed by alternately laminating a plurality of layers of hard plates whose linear dimension W in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of each equalizer bar is shorter in plan view than a linear dimension H in a direction parallel to an axle direction, and rubber layers. The rubber spring device is disposed between an end portion of each equalizer bar and a center axle in an articulated dump truck, and is allowed to function as a suspension. Thus, even when the rubber spring device is deformed into an accordion shape, peak positions of an internal stress within each rubber layer can be dispersed and reduced, thereby preventing generation of cracks within each rubber layer.

Abstract: A suspension link assembly is provided. The link assembly includes a link member having a head portion and a shank. The head portion has a concave surface. The head portion further includes a convex surface. At least one bushing is provided. The bushing has convex and concave surfaces for respectively engaging the concave and convex surfaces of the head portion. A tapered aperture extends through the head portion from the convex surface to the concave surface.

Abstract: A lightweight heavy duty bushing assembly for use in a vehicle suspension system and being low cost and having a high assembly tolerance is disclosed. A metal bar pin is press fit into a bushing formed from a metal sleeve bonded to an elastomeric housing. The metal sleeve is deformable such that exact tolerances of the metal sleeve and the bar pin are not required. The metal bar pin has extended ends with a hole in each end for attachment of the metal bar pin to vehicle suspension components, mounting brackets, or to the vehicle frame.

Abstract: The invention relates to a wheel suspension having a shock absorber (1) with a piston rod (2) and a spring element (7), the spring element (7) being mounted between a lower spring retaining plate (4) and an upper spring retaining plate (6) and the head of the shock absorber (1) being fastened to a vehicle body (8). An intermediate element system (9, 11, 12; 9, 26) is arranged and embodied between the upper spring retaining plate (6) and the vehicle body (8) in such a manner that a compensating moment (23) is generated during final installation of the shock absorber (1) on the vehicle body (8).

Abstract: An elastomeric spring suspension is described for supporting a longitudinally extending vehicle frame rail above first and second axles forming a tandem axle configuration. The suspension includes a frame hanger assembly mounted to the vehicle frame rail. The frame hanger assembly has two full spring modules, each of which includes two elastomeric shear springs, an elastomeric progressive spring rate load cushion having a pyramidal shape with a flattened top surface and a spring mount for mounting the springs. A saddle assembly is connected to the spring mount, and an equalizing beam is connected to the saddle assembly and further connected to the axles. The spring rate for the suspension increases almost linearly as a function of sprung load, resembling a pneumatic suspension. Accordingly, the suspension exhibits excellent ride quality, without sacrificing roll stability.

Abstract: This invention relates to a traction assembly for a vehicle which uses an endless traction band and a plurality of wheels for propulsion. More particularly, the traction assembly comprises a sprocket wheel which has a different size and number of sprocket teeth depending on whether the traction kit replaces the front wheels or the rear wheels of the vehicle. The sprocket wheel of the traction kit can also be configured such that its sprocket teeth are laterally offset. The traction kit can also comprise an anti-torque system that prevent physical contact between the traction kit and the vehicle and that can bias the position of the traction kit in order to improve the steering performance. Finally, the traction assembly can comprise a pivotable extension which lengthens the traction assembly and improves its traction capabilities.

Abstract: A bound stopper provided with a drainage path for draining water that has passed through drainage holes formed in a bottom portion of a bracket. The drainage path is constituted by a recessed portion formed on at least one of a plurality of corresponding portions of a fixing metal fitting and the recessed portion opens outward in a direction perpendicular to an axial direction of the fitting. The corresponding portions are positioned so as to correspond to each of the plurality of the drainage holes, upon the fitting being in contact with the bracket. A locating projection is provided on an outer surface of the corresponding portion different from the corresponding portion having the recessed portion. Insertion of a locating projection into the drainage hole corresponding to the different corresponding portion allows the fitting to be circumferentially positioned such that the corresponding portions correspond to the drainage holes.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension system includes a pair of suspension assemblies mounted on a pair of spaced vehicle frame members for supporting a vehicle body on the vehicle wheels. A torsion axle extends between the pair of suspension assemblies and terminates in a pair of stub shafts. The axle is mounted on a pair of spaced frame bars attached to the vehicle frame. An air spring extends between the vehicle frame and an outer end of a support arm mounted on the torsion axle. The stub shafts are supported within an outer tube of the torsion axle by a plurality of elastomeric members. One end of each stub shaft is connected to a spindle arm which has a spindle extending from an opposite end of the arm. The outer tube of the torsion axle pivotally supports the air spring support arm and the axis of the torsion axle is coaxial with the pivot axis of the air spring support arm to provide a more compact and sturdy suspension assembly.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension system includes a pair of suspension assemblies mounted on a pair of spaced vehicle frame members for supporting a vehicle body on the vehicle wheels. A torsion axle extends between the pair of suspension assemblies and terminates in a pair of stub shafts. The axle is mounted on a pair of spaced frame brackets attached to the vehicle frame. An air spring extends between the vehicle frame and an outer end of a support arm pivotally mounted on each end of the torsion axle. The stub shafts are supported within an outer tube of the torsion axle by a plurality of elastomeric members. One end of each stub shaft is connected to a spindle arm which has a spindle extending from an opposite end of the arm.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the use of EPDM (ethylene-propylene diene monomer) polymer compounds used in place of NR (natural rubber), SBR (styrene butadiene rubber), polyisoprene and other polymers in energy absorption elastomeric systems. In one embodiment a method of continuously manufacturing an EPDM based compound cured via a peroxide based cure system and used in an energy absorption elastomeric system is disclosed. The method includes the steps of forming a continuous part from a compound based on ethylene-propylene diene terpolymer and then curing the part via a continuous process and optionally cutting the final part to the appropriate length. Various advantages are achieved via the use of peroxide cured EPDM as replacements for NR, SBR, polyisoprene and other polymers.

Abstract: A suspension deflection system is provided that includes first and second spaced apart supports, an elastomeric body positioned at least partially in the region between the first and second supports, and a suspension engaging projection extending from the second support in a direction away from the first support. The elastomeric body includes first and second opposed body end surfaces coupled respectively to the first and second supports, and first and second body side surfaces extending between the body end surfaces. The body side surfaces are closer to one another at a location intermediate to the body end surfaces than at the first and second supports. The system conveniently and securely couples a suspension member of a vehicle engaged by the projection to a frame of the vehicle.

Abstract: The invention relates to a wheel suspension system for a motor vehicle, having a lower link for the fastening of a wheel which is coupled to a chassis underframe and is supported on the body via a spring. The chassis underframe is mounted on the body via elastic bearings and has an annular mounting on which the spring plate of the spring is supported before the wheel suspension system is installed. In the fitted state, the spring plate is pressed out of the mounting by the body and is therefore decoupled from the chassis underframe.

Abstract: A suspension system having a stabilizer bar assembly with a stabilizer bar structure, an intermediate bushing and a resilient bushing. The stabilizer bar structure includes a center section to which the intermediate bushing is coupled. The resilient bushing is mounted on the intermediate bushing. The intermediate bushing limits relative axial movement of the resilient bushing in along the center section in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction. A method for forming a stabilizer bar assembly is also provided.

Abstract: A stabilizer bar system for an automotive vehicle includes a stabilizer bar having a circular cross section and a rigid sleeve applied to a section of the outer circumference of the stabilizer bar. The sleeve has a number of circumferentially extending grooves and lands which mate with corresponding grooves and lands formed in an inner cylindrical surface of an elastomeric bushing which is overlaid upon the sleeve. The elastomeric bushing and sleeve may be mated such that relative rotation is allowed at the interface of the bushing and sleeve. Alternatively, the bushing and sleeve may be locked so that no relative rotation may occur at the interface of the bushing and sleeve.

Abstract: A jounce bumper assembly is provided including a cup-shaped member adapted to be mounted to a vehicle. A spacer formed of an appropriate engineered material is mounted within the cup-shaped member and a jounce bumper is mounted to the spacer. The cup-shaped member includes retaining tabs which engage a shoulder of the jounce bumper for retaining the jounce bumper in the cup-shaped member.

Abstract: A non-rotary case to which the motor stator of an inwheel motor is fixed is connected to a knuckle which is a part around the wheel of a vehicle by a first elastic member, a rotary case to which the rotor of the motor is fixed and rotatably connected to the non-rotary case through a bearing is connected to the wheel by a second elastic member so as to float-mount the inwheel motor to parts around the wheel.

Abstract: A suspension and method applies the unsprung weight of the wheels and axles to reduce the motion of the sprung weight of chassis. The suspension has a load bolster supporting the sprung weight at a ride height and a rebound member between the wheel axle support and the chassis. The rebound member is to exert increasing force with motion of the sprung weight away from the axle but the member reduces its force on the load bolster during jounce.

Abstract: A torsion beam type suspension device comprises a pair of trailing arms (1) spaced from each other axially of an axle and connected at front ends thereof to a car body and at rear ends thereof rotatably supporting wheels through brackets, and a torsion beam (2) extending axially of the axle and interconnecting the pair of trailing arms (1) by connecting portions (6) at both ends, the rear ends of the pair of trailing arms (1) being connected to the brackets (8) through rubber cushions, whereby the steering stability can be improved without raising problems about cost, weight and space or without impairing NVH performance associated with road noise, trembling feeling and harshness.

Abstract: A wheel suspension system including a wheel support pivotally attached to a vehicle frame at two, laterally-spaced locations, the wheel support being pivotal between an uppermost and a lowermost position. The wheel support is biased to a position intermediate of the uppermost and lowermost positions by a spring. The spring urges apart a spring support of the wheel support from the vehicle frame, the spring support being below the rotational axis of the wheel. The pivotal axes of the pivotal attachments are located below the rotational axis of the wheel.

Abstract: A bearing for a control arm of a wheel suspension of a vehicle has at least one sensor (18, 28, 38, 48, 58) arranged in or at the bearing (11, 21, 31, 41). The sensor determines the relative movement of the vehicle parts connected to each other by the bearing (11, 21, 31, 31, 41).

Abstract: A suspension and method applies the unsprung weight of the wheels and axles to reduce the motion of the sprung weight of chassis. The suspension has a load bolster supporting the sprung weight at a ride height and a rebound member between the wheel axle support and the chassis. The rebound member is to exert increasing force with motion of the sprung weight away from the axle but the member reduces its force on the load bolster during jounce.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension comprising a frame and a pair of levers carried by the frame on opposite sides thereof. Each lever is pivotally mounted on the frame for swinging movement on an axis intermediate opposite ends of the lever transverse to the frame. The suspension includes a pair of beams, one extending forward from one of the levers and the other extending forward from the other lever, each of the forwardly-extending beams having a pivotal connection with the respective lever forward of the lever axis and having a support for a forward axle. The suspension also includes a pair of beams, one extending rearward from one of the levers and the other extending rearward from the other lever, each of said rearwardly-extending beams having a pivotal connection with the respective lever rearward of the lever axis and having a support for a rearward axle.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension system couples an axle to a vehicle frame so that the axle pivots about a first location with respect to the frame when the axle has a first range of articulation. The axle pivots about a second location with respect to the frame extending laterally out from the first location when the axle has a second range of articulation greater than the first range of articulation. When the axle exceeds the second range of articulation, the suspension system retains the axle in a substantially rigid contact with the vehicle frame.

Abstract: The present invention provides a shock absorber loaded in the inner cavity of a tire enclosed by a tire for a two-wheeler and a rim, which exhibits suitable hardness when starting running and is excellent in cushioning property, both when starting running and during running, due to decrease in hardness as the temperature increases while running. Specifically, the present invention relates to a shock absorber which is loaded in the inner cavity of a tire enclosed by a tire for a two-wheeler and a rim and contacts substantially with the entire inner surface of a tire to be compressed, is circular in the tire circumferential direction and has closed cells; the shock absorber comprising an expanded rubber composition containing at least 5 parts by weight of an organic polymer having a softening point of at least 40° C., based on 100 parts by weight of a rubber component.

Abstract: The invention relates to a holding element for connecting a rod (1) to the body or the chassis of a vehicle using an elastic bearing (2). Said bearing consists of at least one outer sleeve and one inner sleeve (3, 4) provided with an elastic material (5), especially a rubber material, in the annular region (6) between the two sleeves. The outer sleeve (3) is fixed to the body or the chassis, and the inner sleeve (4) is connected to the rod (1) by means of a pin (7). Said pin extends through the inner sleeve (4) and carries a securing disk (9) on its free end, which secures the elastic bearing (2) against damaging offset in the event of defective adhesion of its individual parts in the axial direction. Furthermore, the securing disk extends in the radial direction at least to the outer sleeve (3) and at least part of its outer circumference is embodied in such a way that it is oriented in an essentially concave manner away from the elastic bearing (2).

Abstract: An isolation assembly for use with a vehicle. The isolation assembly includes a collar having a continuous wall. A carriage is disposed within a cavity of the wall and is displaceable relative to the collar. A fastener supports the carriage relative to a frame portion of the vehicle. An insulator is disposed between the carriage and the wall of the collar for coupling the carriage to the collar and for isolating the carriage and the fastener from the collar. The insulator has a first portion and a plurality of second portions. The first portion encapsulates one of the second end surface and the peripheral surface of the carriage. The second portions are movable relative to the first portion about a living hinge to encapsulate the other of the peripheral surface and second end surface of the carriage such that the carriage is adequately isolated from the collar.

Abstract: A suspension bar assembly for an automotive vehicle includes a suspension bar having a bushing, a bushing retainer that exerts radially and axially compressive forces onto the bushing such that the bushing is in frictional engagement with the suspension bar, thereby preventing relative movement of the bushing and the suspension bar, and a mounting bracket that is adapted to connect the suspension bar to the automotive vehicle. A method of inducing a pre-load onto a bushing that supports a bar includes: providing a bar, placing a bushing onto the bar, placing a bushing retainer onto the bushing, and compressing the bushing axially and radially within the bushing retainer.

Abstract: A suspension structure for front wheel assembly of a wheelchair generally includes struts of front wheel assemblies disposed at corresponding mounting brackets of frame of the wheelchair. Such that the struts may rotate upward about the corresponding jockey wheels when the jockey wheels are passing a curb or other obstacle of the like, and meanwhile effects an uplift of the front end of the frame of wheelchair, as a result, the gravity center of the user move backward so as to reduce the load on the jockey wheels, by this way, the jockey wheels may traverse a curb or the like without difficulties. Furthermore, the suspension for front wheel assembly of a wheelchair is simple structured relative to conventional wheelchair so as to facilitate the assembly and reduce the production cost as well.

Abstract: A suspension and method applies the unsprung weight of the wheels and axles to reduce the motion of the sprung weight of chassis. The suspension has a load bolster supporting the sprung weight at a ride height and a rebound member between the sheel axle support and the chassis. The rebound member is to exert increasing force with motion of the sprung weight away from the axle but the member reduces its force on the load bolster during jounce.

Abstract: A joint case includes a flange, a joint shaft extending from the flange, and a case main body fitted to the joint shaft. The flange is fitted to a rear portion of a front vehicle body, whereas the side of the case main body of the joint case is fitted to a rear vehicle body. With the above construction of the joint case, the distance between the front vehicle body and the rear vehicle body can be reduced, and a reduction in the overall length of the tricycle can be obtained.