Suspension
Before we go deeper into checking the suspension, it is important that you can name the different parts of the suspension. In the photo below you see the suspension of a front wheel driven car. The numbers 1, 2 and 3 are representing the parts we will discuss in the next paragraphs.
- Ball joint. This part is the one that is sealed in a rubber ring and sits between the track rod and the steering arm.
- Track rod. This part transfers the steering motion form the steering gear to the steering arm.
- CV joint. This part is covered by the ribbed dust cover and makes sure that the wheel can both be driven and steered.
CV Joint
The Constant Velocity joint (or homokinetic joint) is a flexible ball joint between the drive shaft and the wheel. The CV joint makes sure that the drive shaft can tilt freely while the wheel is driven. This way of driving and steering is applied on front wheel driven cars. It is important that the CV joint is well protected against moist and dirt. The ribbed sleeve you see spanned over the CV joint takes care of this.
To get a good look at these sleeves, you will have to turn the wheels in their most outward position. Check for the correct fitting and the condition of both covers. If the covers are ripped or loose, sand and moist can get to the CV joint, which causes extra wear. A worn out CV joint gives excessive play between the drive shaft and wheel.
