Episode #0210
"Active Suspension System"

As Seen On Dream Car Garage

In this episode of Dream Car Garage, host Tom Hnatiw talks about an important safety issue with today's big trucks and looks at a suspension system he calls "the coolest looking track bar in the entire world!" He is also quick to add, "It's more than just about improving traction... it's a story about stability and vehicle dynamics."

Talking about how important it is to reduce the roll of the back end of an SUV or pickup truck, Tom points out that "when you turn right, the vehicle wants to lean left and that means you are actually picking up a wheel. With these loose sprung deals, we can actually lose control that way". Don Hubick of Roadmaster Active Suspension agrees noting that the load absorbing coil tension springs of the Roadmaster Active Suspension system work in perfect synergy with a rear leaf spring suspension system, capturing the arch and holding them like a powerful muscle. Leaf springs no longer flatten out from the force of cornering and the vehicle remains more level on the turn or curve... without the unsafe dip and sway.

Impressed with the easy installation and detailed fitting instructions, "with digital pictures", Tom directs our attention to the next segment of the show: an installation in progress. After the axle plate has been installed utilizing whenever possible the vehicles existing u-bolts, the axle stand can be removed. The vehicle remains supported off the ground by the frame so that there is no load on the leaf springs to allow for full arch. At this point the pre-assembled Roadmaster Active Suspension unit can be slipped up over the rear eye of the leaf spring and connected to the cap screw of the axle mount plate (shown
above) to capture the arch and complete the installation. Pre-load tension is then set by turning the cap screw until the desired gap between the spring coils is achieved. It is also noted that there are applications for a full range of vehicles with rear leaf springs. Roadmaster Active Suspension kits feature coil tension springs designed for vehicles from a 1/3 ton capacity up to a full 1 ton capacity.