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INDEPENDENT FRONT SUSPENSIONS
There are three basic types of front suspension systems: coil spring, torsion bar, and strut. Coil springs and torsion bars were the traditional suspension used on American cars until the recent popularity of strut systems. Strut suspensions are lighter weight, which helps save gas; and they take up less space in the engine compartment, which is very important with the transverse-mounted engines used in most front-wheel drive cars. Most street rods and trucks are traditional front engine/rear drive and, with the exception of a few very light duty models, don't utilize the strut suspension. All three types are independent front suspensions. When one wheel rolls over a bump or into a hole, the road shock is absorbed by that wheel's suspension. The other wheel is only minimally affected. This provides much greater stability and directional control than the old solid axle designs.
In all three suspension systems, each front wheel is connected to a steering knuckle and wheel spindle assembly.
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