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Old 06-02-2009, 07:34 PM
mfain mfain is online now
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Default Technical sources

To answer your question (above), probably the most concise and informative material regarding front suspension geometry can be found in the technical section of Tony Woodward's Precision Power Steering catalog. I think it can be found on line at woodwardsteering.com. His discussions of Ackermann, toe, and bump steer geometry are on the mark and a must for those considering building their own front suspension. The front suspension geometry (and its ability to perform effectively) are heavily based on the relationship of the end of the rack (or drag link) and the tie rod end of the steering arm. The tie rod needs to swing in an arc that is complimentary to the arcs of the control arms; therefore tie rod length and angle (up or down at one end or the other) dramatically effective bump steer. I have seen a couple of aftermarket suspensions that have the wheels straight ahead at rest, but toe in or out as much as 2 inches with full bump or droop. Problems like this can become severe when the track width is changed and the rack length is not -- the result is a tie rod that is too long or short which causes bump steer. Mr. Woodward's technical information gives a great explanation of these and other suspension geometry considerations.
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