Re: Tie Rod Protector Sprung vs unsprung

[Steve Stegmann <stegmann@domain.elided>]

Sprung vs Unsprung is really not an issue for a 4x4.  Especially for 
offroad.  This comes into play when discussing handling of regular cars.  
Actaully only really applicable (except in extremis) for sports cars 
actually driven fast.

The name of the game is to control body motion, not wheel motion.  To do 
this you have to start with controlling the wheel motion.  

If the wheel needs to ride up over a bump you need to be able to stop its
upward motion at the top of the bump without imparting upward motion (any
significant amount) to the body.  Likewise when it drops into a hole.  If
you think about it a moment this will all work better if the ratio of
sprung to unsprung is as high as possible.  

This ratio can be changed by adding weight to the bodywork or reducing the
weight of the wheels and the parts which move with the wheels.  Adding
weight is a dumb idea in a sports car so you reduce the wheel weight
(unsprung weight). Hence aluminum wheels, independant suspension vs solid 
axles.

On a Scout I wouldn't worry about it at all.

Steve

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Steven A. Stegmann
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