WHAT DO SHOCK ABSORBERS DO?

Shock absorbers are critical safety components that can affect tire wear, stability, braking, vibration, driver comfort, and the life of other steering and suspension parts.

The Vital Functions that Shocks Perform

Control spring movement
Shocks work with a commercial truck’s suspension system to maintain tire-to-road contact by controlling spring movement.

Protects springs and air bags
Shocks work with a commercial truck’s springs – if one is weak, it will wear the other out quickly.

Help keep tires in contact with the road surface
Maintaining firm tire-to-road contact is critical for safe steering, handling and load control.

Provides extension stop for air suspensions
If extension limits are exceeded, damage to the air spring – and the truck – may result.

Transform movement to heat
These velocity-sensitive dampers transform the kinetic energy produced by suspension movement into thermal energy, which is dissipated via hydraulic fluid.

Reduced cost per mile
Properly functioning shocks can help reduce operating expenses by extending tire life, reducing wear and tear to other components and protecting your truck investment. When replacing worn air springs, remember to replace worn shocks.

WHY SHOCK ABSORBERS WEAR OUT?

Commercial vehicle operators may be unaware of gradual shock wear over time. Shocks should be routinely inspected and tested by a service provider as part of scheduled truck maintenance.

Reasons For Commercial Vehicle Shock Wear:

Deterioration Through Normal Operation

Each mile of operation averages 1,750 stabilizing actions.

 22 million cycles occur – on average – at 12,425 miles / 20,000 km

 88 million cycles occur – on average – at 49,700 miles / 80,000 km

 132 million cycles occur – on average – at 74,550 miles / 120,000 km

Hydraulic Fluid Deterioration

Over time, the internal hydraulic fluid loses viscosity, impairing the unit’s ability to dissipate road impacts.

Deterioration of Shock Components

The components within a shock absorber are made of metal, rubber and plastic, all of which eventually degrade through extended use, extreme heat, and adverse road and weather conditions.

Determination of a Qualified Service Provider

Not all symptoms of shock deterioration are readily discernable; after a thorough inspection, a qualified service provider may determine your truck’s shocks have worn to the extent that those units require replacement.

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