2006-08-22 03:15:07 · 9 answers · asked by turbo 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shock_absorber
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McPherson_strut
Shocks provide resistance by forcing hydraulic fluid (oil) through valves in the piston as it moves up and down. Because the oil cannot be compressed, only a certain amount of fluid can be forced through these valves, which creates resistance to vehicle movement.
Struts integrate numerous suspension parts into one compact assembly, including the coil spring, spring seats, shock absorber, strut bearing, and steering knuckle. Its spring can support the weight of the vehicle, while moving to adapt to road irregularities. The internal shock absorber dampens movement of the spring as it compresses and rebounds during vehicle travel. The strut housing serves as a structural part of the suspension system and connects the upper strut bearing to the lower ball joint so that the entire assembly can pivot when the steering wheel is turned.
2006-08-22 03:26:44 · answer #1 · answered by grande alacrán 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A shock absorber has a pivot at both ends. A strut will have a pivot at the top but bolts solidly to the spindle at the bottom. This is the real difference. While struts almost always have coil springs attached to them and many shock absorbers do not, there are exceptions in both cases. For example, '80s Mustangs have struts with the springs mounted separately, and many Hondas use spring / shock absorber combinations.
2006-08-22 12:12:09 · answer #2 · answered by Mad Scientist Matt 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A shock absorber is a separate component from the vehicle's leaf or coil spring. A strut is a combination unit made up of a shock absorber within a coil spring and is removed/installed as a unit.
2006-08-22 10:33:11 · answer #3 · answered by not_gullible 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A strut is a complete unit.Some refer to them as legs,because thats what they look like.
A shock absorber is part of the strut.This is the piece that runs through the centre of the spring.
Although on different types of suspension a shock can be fitted on its own.
The correct name for a shock absorber is a damper,because they do not absorb shock.They dampern it.
2006-08-26 09:43:42 · answer #4 · answered by Mark ABC 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
a shock absorber acts independently,,and a strut has the spring with it,,they are more stable,,as far as the ride goes,,also a strut will drive better,,and out handle a vehicle with just shocks,,also with the use of struts ,,you can have independent suspension,,because each unit supports and will handle the weight that is put on it,,all of the newer cars have switched to them,,because in most cases they out last shocks,,and deliver a better ride,,and perform better,,i hope this help,s.
2006-08-22 10:27:36 · answer #5 · answered by dodge man 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am not a mechanic but my understanding is that the shocks absorb bumps and compresses upward to allow you to go over uneven and rocky surfaces. The struts are a downward force to push the tires down to the road. Again, I am not a mechanic so you may want to check some other answers.
2006-08-22 10:26:40 · answer #6 · answered by don1joker 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
a shock absorber is the piston that absorbs shocks, a strut is the shock absorber plus a coil spring.
2006-08-22 10:50:19 · answer #7 · answered by john 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A strut is an integral part of your suspension and incorporates a shock and coil spring.A shock absorber is an external component to supplement your spring suspension.
2006-08-22 10:32:23 · answer #8 · answered by maddmaxx472000 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
shock absorber is a part of the assembly. The assembly's name is Strut.
Ok
2006-08-22 10:59:13 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋