Purpose, device and types of car suspensions

6.1.18 Torsion bar

Torsion bar is a type of springing element, which is often used for saving space. It is a rod, one end of which is connected to the suspension arm, and the other is clamped with a bracket on the car body. When the suspension arm is moved, this rod twists, acting as a springing element. The main advantage of torsion bar is the simplicity of its design. The disadvantages include the fact that the torsion bar must be long enough for normal operation. But because of this, problems arise with its placement. In case if the torsion bar is located longitudinally, it “eats up” space under the car body or inside it. In case if it is transverse, it reduces the parameters of the geometric cross-country ability of the vehicle.

Figure 6.16 Example of suspension with longitudinal torsion bar (long rod, which is fixed on the lever in front and on the car body cross-arm in rear).