Traditional 4WD leaf springs are often thick, heavy, uncomfortable and loud, offering little to no flex. In response to this Terrain Tamer developed their 4WD Parabolic Leaf Springs, applying a carefully researched design and modern technology to a well-established idea from the trucking industry.
Containing fewer leaves than regular leaf springs, they are named for their tapered ‘parabolic’ design - thicker in the centre and thinner toward the ends, eliminating the weight of traditional leaf packs and dramatically reduces the unsprung weight of the vehicle and making them safer both on the road, and in the workshop. This lower weight also creates a more comfortable ride, whether loaded or unloaded, addressing the varying and ever-changing applications of the modern 4WD parts.
The design helps the spring to flex while still providing the strength needed for heavy loads, particularly useful when challenged with difficult terrain, as the flex afforded with a Parabolic Spring allows the spring to give a little when the driver hits a bump in the road, reducing the shock transferred to the crown wheel and pinion, stopping the wheel from spinning and essentially maintaining safety and drive.
The new shape also provides better axle articulation, and almost no interleaf friction, allowing the spring to compress or extend with ease without touching until there is a reasonable load on the vehicle, which means the springs are quieter and also helps minimise issues with rust build up, which can be a major cause of failure in standard leaf springs.