4X4 Suspension Guide for Beginners

Red Jeep Offroading

When it comes to the suspension system for your 4X4 or Jeep, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing the right one. It’s important to understand your vehicle’s needs and how a quality 4×4 suspension system can protect it from significant damage.

What Does the Suspension Do?

All cars have a suspension system. It protects the vehicle as it travels over uneven driving surfaces by keeping it stable and absorbing impact. The suspension system is on the underside of a vehicle and comprises several parts, including the coil springs, shock absorbers, and struts.

Different Types of 4X4 Suspension Systems

Because 4X4s and Jeeps travel on rough off-road trails, their suspension systems must be top-quality and pretty robust. Solid axle and independent suspension systems are among the most common setups for offroading.

Solid Axle 4X4 Suspension

Ultimately, the solid axle (also called a live axle or beam axle) suspension setup is the most classic approach for 4X4 vehicles or Jeeps. It refers to an axle that runs straight from one side of the vehicle to the other and adjusts on uneven surfaces to maximize the contact the wheels make with the road. Springs are located in the front and rear parallel to the frame. They attach to the axle and work to keep the vehicle suspended enough to avoid damage as it drives – on-road or off. 

Solid axle suspension is exceptionally durable and easy to repair. There are fewer parts needed when installed, and it’s an excellent choice for those who offroad in areas with very rocky and uneven terrain, like the mountains. However, ground clearance is lower on vehicles with solid axle suspension systems, and overall vehicle weight is higher after installation.

White Jeep On Cliff Edge

Independent Suspension 

This type of suspension system allows each wheel on the same axle to move independently from the other wheel on the axle. This means that one wheel or tire of your 4X4 can go over uneven terrain and absorb the shock without disturbing the other wheels. Many modern vehicles have either an independent rear suspension or independent front suspension systems, with either an axle in the rear or the front.

Independent suspension systems will provide a smoother ride than solid axle suspension, especially traveling offroad. It also offers much better cornering, meaning you’ll worry less about taking those turns. However, these suspension types have many moving parts and can be costly and complicated to install and repair. You’ll need to keep up with regular maintenance for your Jeep or 4X4 to keep everything running smoothly.

Choosing Suspension Systems

The mods on your vehicle, your tire size, and a number of other factors will determine which type of suspension system you need. The bottom line is that suspension systems and kits can be as complex (or streamlined) as you’d like them to be. The best way to know which is suitable for your 4X4 or Jeep is by choosing a team of experts that can guide you through the decision-making process. 

Our experienced team at Axleboy is always ready to welcome you and your vehicle. We value your business and want to share our passion for 4X4s with you. Also, we promise to provide you with courteous and helpful service. That’s why we provide our clients with trusted custom consulting.

We know from our years in business that every client is different. How you choose to drive your vehicle is different from the next person. And there’s nothing wrong with that! We feel that’s one reason it’s so special to own a 4X4. Contact our team today if you’d like to discuss suspension systems or if you have any other questions!