Car Double Wishbone Suspension Design

A double-wishbone is an independent suspension design that can be

found at the front, rear, or all four wheels. In this context, “independent”

means that a single wheel’s movement is not affected by the other three

wheels. In other words, it’s free to move (somewhat) independently of the

chassis.

This design offers several advantages, specifically in high performance

on- and off-road environments. The key benefit is that, unlike a similar

MacPherson strut setup, a double wishbone design doesn’t significantly

affect wheel camber with suspension travel.

That means a consistent tire contact patch with the road, regardless of

body roll or road bumps.

• The wishbone type is the most popular independent suspension system.

• It consists of two (occasionally parallel) wishbone-shaped arms to locate the

wheel. Each wishbone or arm has two mounting points on the chassis and one

joint at the knuckle.

• The shock absorber and coil spring mount to the wishbones to control vertical

movement.

• The vehicle weight is transmitted from the body and the cross member to the

coil spring through which it goes to the lower wishbone member.

• The wishbones not only position the wheels and transmit the vehicle load but

also rest acceleration, braking and cornering forces.