Keeping car suspension in the best shape for the on-coming rainy season is important. Water is liquid so it can damage metal parts especially the moving parts of the suspension system.
For seasoned drivers who have more than enough hours behind the wheel, is the car suspension ready for the rainy season? This is what should be addressed, so suspension related problems can be alleviated and nipped in the bud before they get too expensive.
Keeping car suspension in the best shape for the on-coming rainy season is important
One thing about the rainy season is that it brings out the kinks and quirks that shows itself almost on cue! For example, when driving in the summer, the usual complaint is over-heating, but when driving during the rainy season, it’s all about water damage. Parts of the wheel suspension system are usually covered by sleeves and boots, that keep water out.
The assembly has several component parts that are constantly in motion whenever the car is running. Many of its parts are lubricated and need to be checked if sounds are heard, whenever the car is running. These problems are not so major but if neglected can be troublesome.
The key is to get it done in time and repaired, so less cost is incurred. Compared to other car components, the wheel assembly is the easiest section to repair. Once the rainy season starts, make it a priority to have the wheel assembly checked. Knowing what needs repair and the overall status will make a lot of difference.
This article on Philkotse.com will equip you with simple tips on how to make you car suspension ready for rainy season!
1. My shocks are noisy!
When driving, especially when hitting humps and depressions on the road it produces a squeak that wasn't there before! Most inexperienced drivers will ignore it, but some will doubt whether the car suspension is ready for the rainy season too. It can be good or bad because it means the shocks need replacement or parts of the wheel assembly needs repair or replacement. These sounds shouldn’t be taken lightly at all!
When driving, especially when hitting humps and depressions on the road it produces a squeak that wasn't there before
Better to be proactive and nip it in the bud before it gets worse. Here are possible reasons why there is a squeaking sound.
- The rubber boot or sleeve is worn and a ball bearing is compromised.
- The rubber bushings need replacement and metal parts are rubbing against each other.
- Mounts are already soft from constant compression from shock absorbers and need replacement asap.
- Parts that need lubrication will need to be lubricated again, with the proper boots, bushings, and sleeves replaced.
- The sleeve covering the velocity ball joint needs to be checked.
These problems are minor but can affect the alignment of the wheels too. Components of the wheel assembly are straight forward repairs but with timely intervention minimizes repair cost. It is advisable to check the opposite side if it needs replacement or repair as well too.
2. Checkups on the wheel assembly system or be sorry later!
Usually, these checkups are done by professional mechanics, but it does help to know if the car suspension is in pristine condition. All these checkups are mostly ocular inspections and no need to do anything else. Although, it’s imperative when the wet season begins to avoid possible suspension problems. All that’s needed is a crocodile jack which raises the car much higher and mounts to support the car.
It’s easy to check on the wheel assembly because it’s more exposed
Usually, it’s easy to check on the wheel assembly because it’s more exposed. What to check for when inspecting the wheel assembly or under-chassis.
- Check out all the rubber bushings, boots, sleeves, and fasteners that seal them from the water. Making sure that no tears or loose fasteners are found in these parts. Ball joints and other moving parts should be sealed well or get damaged by water slowly, that affects overall performance.
- Look for cracking, swelling, and oil contamination on the component parts when checking the wheel assembly out. Have them replaced if needed and address these problems to avoid problems associated with it.
- Oil leaks can damage rubber boots and sleeves, it loosens the fasteners and fitting that waterproof it. Best to fix it; so that water can’t damage it furthermore.
- It’s crucial to check the ball joints are sealed well without any leaks. Additional checks on the stabilizer link pins and tie rod ends are important, so check it out!
- Whenever there is an oil change done, then have the grease fittings done as well too. It improves lubrication and less grinding of metal to metal.
- Don’t forget to check the struts and shocks for oil leaks that is a bad sign. Having it replaced asap will be better for the car.
- Do the bounce test on the car suspension system which means it bounces twice is a good indicator. Should it be more than twice, then it means that replacement is due already. Fix it asap or it will affect other component parts of the wheel assembly and suspension system.
Checking out for these indicators will be needed and to do something about it. Ignoring it can be detrimental and cost more money, especially during the rainy season.
3. A short rundown on all major wheel assembly parts
It wouldn’t be complete with familiarizing with basic wheel assembly components that make the car suspension ready for the raining season. These components part should be in good condition, especially in the rainy season compared to other times of the year.
Wheels and Tires
An important part of the wheel and suspension system assembly because they are in contact with the road. Providing traction acceleration, braking, and absorbing shocks from the road too.
Suspension springs or Torsion bars
These components absorb shocks from the road and will need replacement in time. These parts are integral to having a soft or hard ride depending on the quality of the springs or torsion bars.
These parts are integral to having a soft or hard ride depending on the quality of the springs or torsion bars
Shock absorbers and struts
These parts will absorb shock from the springs or torsion bars to keep the car from bouncing too much. Some shock absorbers can be adjusted accordingly to the preferred ride though.
Linkages
They are metal pieces that connect the wheel assembly and enable movement, especially when absorbing shock.
They are metal pieces that connect the wheel assembly and enable movement, especially when absorbing shock
Bushings, Bearings, and Joints
Movement at these points where the linkages are connected and adjust constantly while the car is running. It’s important to keep these components lubed and sealed to keep it functioning smoothly. During the rainy season, these parts suffer the most stress fatigue.
4. Wrapping up: Make car suspension ready for the rainy season!
Knowing whether your car suspension is ready for the rainy season will give a heads up, on what needs to be done! Being proactive and fixing what needs to be done will be advantageous for car owners in the long run. Maintaining a good wheel assembly and suspension system will make tires last longer and keep wheel alignment straight. It should be a priority that must be done asap to have fewer hassles when the car is running!
Knowing whether your car suspension is ready for the rainy season will give a heads up, on what needs to be done
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