Cate&Rob TucsonJim Again not being an engineer I am uncertain of many aspects of suspensions. Two things come to my mind regarding springs and bushings. These bushings are subject to an increased debris load due to their proximity to each other and being behind the tow vehicle as well, no fenders to speak of and no slash guards. It would seem that in these conditions the addition of grease without seals to protect from grit etc. that the grease may attract, hold grit and form a fine grade abrasive that works into the bushings during movement, thus causing abnormal/accelerated wear. I know that on heavy equipment we greased the fittings at least once a week to expel dust and grit regardless of need for lubrication, due to no seals. I don't know. As for the springs being multiple vs. single leaf, the multiple springs in varying lengths might actually create hard spots that are detrimental to the life of the springs as well as creating an increased harshness of ride as each different leaf takes load. Again I do not know about this stuff, just spinning it around. A single spring that is varied in thickness and tapered from the center to the tip with a welded on, alignment bored fitting on the ends would be far superior to a multi leaf arrangement, probably more costly but longterm cheaper due to reduced maintenance and repair. Many aircraft have a single leaf spring landing gear, they are great for rough conditions where the softer portion works well for uneven conditions with a fast response and the progression in strength farther up (think axel position) soaks harsh sudden impacts. Does any of this make sense? I am the curious sort so am trying to think this through.
Dave
Dave
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