Suspension & Chassis » Shock Absorbers and Struts
Shock Absorbers and Struts
What is a shock absorber?
Shock absorbers dampen the movement of the springs by converting the spring's kinetic energy into thermal energy, heating the shock’s oil to create compression and rebound resistance levels.
What is a strut?
For all intensive purposes, shocks and struts serve the same purpose, yet mount in different ways and provide additional functionality. Struts take the place of the upper control arm and upper ball joint used in conventional suspensions with shock absorbers. Unlike shock absorbers, struts provide structural support for the springs, and maintain the wheel and tire in alignment.