Suspension Geometry Quiz

What are the three steering characteristics of a vehicle when cornering?

• Oversteer, understeer, neutral

• Oversteer, drift, neutral

• Understeer, drift, balance

• Balance, drift, neutral

Answer explanation

The three steering characteristics of a vehicle when cornering are oversteer, understeer, and neutral. Oversteer occurs when the rear tires lose grip, understeer is when the front tires lose grip, and neutral is a balanced state.

What happens during oversteer?

• The rear of the vehicle swings outward more than the front.

• The front of the vehicle swings outward more than the rear.

• The vehicle travels in a straight line.

• The vehicle stops immediately.

Answer explanation

During oversteer, the rear of the vehicle loses traction and swings outward more than the front, causing the vehicle to turn more sharply than intended. This is why the correct answer is that the rear swings outward more than the front.

What is the effect of smaller scrub radius due to positive camber?

• Reduces the effect of wheel forces on the steering

• Increases the effect of wheel forces on the steering

• No effect on wheel forces

• Increases stress on main components

Answer explanation

A smaller scrub radius due to positive camber means that the wheel forces have less leverage on the steering system, leading to reduced feedback and sensitivity in steering response.

What is the effect of positive camber on the steering linkages?

• Less wear on the steering linkages

• More wear on the steering linkages

• No effect on the steering linkages

• Increases stress on main components

Answer explanation

Positive camber reduces the angle at which the tires contact the road, leading to less friction and strain on the steering linkages. This results in less wear on the steering components, making it the correct choice.

What is the effect of positive camber on main components?

• Less stress on main components

• More stress on main components

• No effect on main components

• Increases stress on steering linkages

Answer explanation

Positive camber reduces the angle of the wheels relative to the ground, leading to less stress on main components. This configuration allows for better weight distribution and minimizes wear on parts, enhancing overall vehicle performance.

What is the effect of turning the steering towards the opposite lock during oversteer?

• Reduces the front slip angle

• Increases the front slip angle

• No effect on the slip angle

• Stops the vehicle

Answer explanation

Turning the steering towards the opposite lock during oversteer helps to align the front wheels with the direction of travel, which reduces the front slip angle and aids in regaining control of the vehicle.

What is the role of the swivel in a supermarket trolley wheel?

• To increase speed

• To reduce noise

• To allow straight movement

• To improve fuel efficiency

Answer explanation

The swivel in a supermarket trolley wheel allows for easy maneuverability, enabling the trolley to move straight and change direction smoothly. This is essential for navigating aisles effectively.

What happens to the camber in independent suspension systems when compressed?

• Changes from negative to positive

• Changes from positive to negative

• Remains neutral

• Changes from neutral to positive

Answer explanation

In independent suspension systems, when compressed, the camber typically changes from positive to negative. This means that the top of the wheel tilts inward, affecting tire contact with the road.

What does KPI stand for?

• King pin inclination

• Key Performance Indicator

• Kinetic Position Index

• Knuckle Pivot Inclination

Answer explanation

KPI stands for Key Performance Indicator, which is a measurable value that demonstrates how effectively a company is achieving key business objectives. The other options do not represent this widely recognized term.

What effect does the swivel axis inclination have on a vehicle?

• Increases fuel consumption

• Affects the self-centering action

• Reduces engine noise

• Enhances braking efficiency

Answer explanation

The swivel axis inclination primarily affects the self-centering action of the vehicle's steering. A proper inclination helps maintain stability and control, ensuring the wheels return to a straight position after turning.