Sorry, I have searched for this...

What does the front track bar, front lower and upper control arms, etc. do/control? Really, what is unique about each component?

Thanks

 

I wouldn't mind seeing some answers to this myself. I know very little about how the suspention works and what each component does. I'd like to learn more about it though.

 

me too. Noob here

 

this is a good read and explains much of what you need to know

http://project-jk.com/jeep-jk-write-...-end-alignment

 

Thanks for the response Greenamphibious. Yeah, I've read that before and I understand the basic purpose of each....I think. Is that all there is, though? Track bar keeps your axle centered and upper/lower control arms hold it in place (front to back) and control caster?

 

Ya I am not versed in suspension and drivetrain speak but That is the "nutshell" summary I know how to identify the parts and have a basic knowledge of what they do.... many jeeps later I have been A otay! and I do know the hell you have been through, sorry I can't be more help

 

Thanks bro! I'm keeping a positive mind that my new JKS lower control arms will do the trick. Putting 'em on this weekend. I just want to understand as much about the problem as I can. I appreciate your input.

 

1. Stabilizer Links
Connects the stabilizer bar to the axle (see 4). Often disconnected using quick disconnects for greater axle articulation in offroad applications. The JK Rubicon model has an electronic disconnect that splits this bar in to selectably for the same purpose.

2. Shock Absorber
Keeps the axle and wheels from bouncing when hitting bumps. Also limits downward travel of the axle in come applications.

3. Upper Suspension (Control) Arm
Limits front to back movement along with the lower suspension arm, keeps the axle in place under the vehicle and does not allow them to rotate under torque. Allows the axle to move up and down.

4. Stabilizer Bar
This keeps the axle from allowing one wheel to drop more than another. Often disconnected using disconnecting links (see 1).

5. Coil spring

6. Jounce Bumper / Bump Stop
Limits the upper travel of the axle and keeps the axle from hitting the frame.

7. Lower Suspension (Control) Arm
Limits front to back movement along with the upper suspension arm, keeps the axle in place under the vehicle and does not allow them to rotate under torque. Allows the axle to move up and down.

8. Track Bar
Limits left to right movement of the axle and keeps the axle in place under the vehicle.

9. Axle and Differential
Axles connect the two wheels together to the drive shaft and body of the Jeep. The differential applies torque to both wheels simultaneously. However the simple design can allow spinning of one wheel unless lockers are used. Lockers mechanically lock the left and right wheels together.

10. Steering Stabilizer
A shock absorber designed to absorb bumps and keep all of the bumps on one wheel from turning the steering wheel.

11. Drag Link
Connects the steering to one wheel.

12. Tie Rod
Connects the two wheels together and allows steering forces from the drag link side to apply also to the other wheel.

13. Cross Member
A brace between the left and right sides of the frame. Usually used to mount drive train components (transmission, transfer case etc.).

 

I know this is the STOCK JK Tech forum, but bear with me for a small exercise...

Especially with tall lift kits, most of the parts described above are often replaced.

The JK shares most of its base suspension technology with a TJ.
This lift kit is from a TJ - they were more difficult to fit large tires, and required more dramatic lift. They were smaller and had much smaller wheel wells.

 

You also often hear of long-arm suspension. Well this is an aftermarket suspension system with long upper and lower control arms as shown.