Why do we still use leaf springs?

Having been one of the first ever suspension systems, leaf springs are still working just as good now, as they did back in the day. But why do we still use them? Well, as experts within this field, we’re going to share with you the reasons for using springs, and the important effects and benefits they offer to your vehicle. That said, continue reading to discover more on the reasons why we’re still using leaf springs for suspension…

What are they?

The easiest way to describe a leaf spring itself is that it’s a spring comprised of leaves. Helpful? We thought not. In more laxed terms, it’s a semi-elliptical arm that consists of one or more leaves. These are made from strips of steel that flex under pressure, whilst maintaining its original shape when not under pressure. In earlier times, they were made from leather, but in more recent types we have been able to make them from steel.

How have they evolved?

Back in the day, early horseless carriages were built and designed to utilise the leaf spring technology. This set up, then remained right up until front wheel drive vehicles moved onto coil springs in the 1970s. Since this time, car makers have continued to use the beloved leaf spring in heavy duty vehicles that are designed for more commercial purposes. These types of vehicles include: trucks, work vans and things like that.

Are they the best type of springs?

With so much power, and having made just an impact on history and high duty vehicles, these springs must have some sort of power or magical properties, right? Yes, they do. At least when it comes to the comparison of a coiled spring. Our preferred types of springs have many mounting points, allowing the suspension to distribute the load across more areas of the vehicle chassis. Unlike a coil spring, where all the focus is on one single point. In terms of weighing up the pros and cons, of course leaf springs come up tops. And this is no surprise as they have so many benefits for vehicles that rely heavily on carrying large loads.

The winning springs are also great for maintaining the position of the rear axle, and this helps to simplify the suspension system. This will help with both driving down both the weight and costs of the spring. Offering a much more studier solution than a coil spring, leaf springs reinforce the use required in vehicles which are based around utility. See our top leaf spring questions here.

Why should I choose leaf springs?

Having found a niche in the market, these springs are sure to be around for many years to come, if not decades. Evolving with technology and different updates in their system, automakers will be in their element knowing that these springs will be around for much longer. With many different types of springs out there, you can rest assure that you’ll be able to find exactly what you’re looking for without a hitch. With an impressive amount of history, benefits, and advantages, we’re confident to say that leaf springs are important and will leave a large stamp and impact on the future of commercial and heavy duty vehicles.