Suspension design

[FELIX YUEN]

is this the weakest link in the SLC's suspension design?
Doesn't look as beefy as the rest of the arms.

 

[Russell]

In my humble opinion they look meaty enough provided the alloy is of the correct spec. Me I would be asking why the extra length on the bolts was not cut back to within 2 or 3 threads.
Cheers

 

[Frank Clark]

It's got heims at all three corners of the to A arm. You'd have to do a lot of simulations to see which are more loaded in what circumstances. As long as they replaced before badly warned (with Quality 4340 ones), I would never expect a problem with them. We run aluminum suspension heim's on race cars half the SLC's weight - I've never seen one break outside of significant contact with a hard object.

Me I would be asking why the extra length on the bolts was not cut back to within 2 or 3 threads.

LOL. I'm lazy and just ordered the right length from Aircraft Spruce....

 

[Neil]

FRank, aluminum spherical rod end bearings are specifically forbidden in some sanctioning bodies because of potential fatigue failures.

 

[Frank Clark]

FRank, aluminum spherical rod end bearings are specifically forbidden in some sanctioning bodies because of potential fatigue failures.

That’s appropriate. We typically trash bars with aluminum rod ends 1-3 times a season. If there is any sign of damage the rod ends get replaced. Those that make it through that typically get a bit loose after about 20 race nights. That’s probably about 10 hours at speed.

Asphalt guys can do that many hours in less than 2 weekends.

 

[Tom]

The upper link doesn't experience nearly the load/stress that the lower link does. Provided the equipment is maintained, your pic does not show a weak point.