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What do I mean by this?
The wheel no longer travels straight up on compression. It might travel outward initially as it goes up and then inward after the arm reaches level. This causes increased friction with the ground and increased angular acceleration (inertia).
The axles travel outward in the tulip and then inward as travel continues. The steering rod changes length because the tie rods don't remain at the same angle. This changes toe angle. The other components and links also operate in less than ideal angles.


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I was thinking about this too. I figured that in quick jolts the tires would flex and if moving at any speed, the tread would flex enough to let it walk in and out. But.... still something is there that wasn't before... It could very well be this combined with leverage differences make up a noticeable difference?

Frank.


Yes, absolutely this what happens, it's called tire scrub. When I was in the Cal Poly Solar Car Club, I was the front suspension team leader and tire scrub was a concern because it wastes energy. Everytime the suspension moves it eats a little bit of power because of friction between the road and the tire. So we had to design the control arms such that the tire contact point would move laterally as little as possible...all while keeping handling in mind.

Now, I'm not sure how much this contributes to the stiff ride of a lifted truck, but I'm sure it all adds up.

Steve
My Website ||Gettin' off 4wheel drive club member
'93 4Runner V6 4x4 auto tranny
If you have to ask about a SAS, you're not ready for it.