Ride control Archives - Page 2 of 2 - Tomorrows Technician
Ford Expedition Tech Tip: Stiff Ride And Suspension Warning Messages

On 2014-2017 Ford Expedition models with the Vehicle Dynamic Suspension, the system looks at a lot more than just the height of the vehicle to control the pressure in the air springs and the valving of the shocks.

Active Ride Control: Diagnostics And Replacement Options

So, what makes a shock or strut “active?”

Ride Control And Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

For all 2012 model year vehicles and newer, stability control is mandatory.

VIDEO: Spring Design And Technology

Andrew Markel explores the design of progressive springs and how they distribute shifts in weight and promote ride comfort.

Matching The Components To The Application: Ride Control System Protocol

A shock absorber is designed to dampen oscillations in leaf or coil springs by enclosing a piston and rod assembly inside a cylinder filled with oil. The shell or casing generally mounts on the axle or control arm while the piston rod assembly mounts to the frame.

VIDEO: Upper Strut Mount Replacement

Andrew Markel discusses the upper strut mount and its importance to a strut replacement job, including the prevention of the strut binding and memory steer.

Ride Control: 15 Tips To Sell The Job And Do It Right

The customer will not be happy if he brought the car in for a knocking noise, was sold a couple hundred dollars worth of struts and/or ball joints, etc., and the noise is still there. If he then takes the car elsewhere and the knocking noise is fixed with a couple of $20 sway bar bushings, that guy is going to think he got beat. This underscores the importance of addressing the customer’s complaint before that vehicle leaves your shop.

VIDEO: Inspecting Ride Control Components The Correct Way

In this video, Andrew Markel covers why the old-fashioned knee test is not valid for late-model cars and trucks when inspecting shocks and struts. Modern shocks and strut have valving that can sense low- and high-frequency movements that can create problems for technicians who test these components with their knees.

Active Ride Control Diagnostics

In the 1990s, adjustable valve shocks and struts were all the rage. These systems had two or three comfort and sport settings that could be changed with buttons on the dash. These systems played the role of firming up the suspension if the driver wanted a sporty feel while driving. These systems have evolved to the point where they can actively change dampening characteristics in milliseconds.