Rubber is used in most suspension systems as bump and rebound stops.
If the suspension reaches its limit of travel, these stops prevent direct metal-to-metal contact, which reduces jarring of the body of the vehicle. The stops can also be shaped to provide an auxiliary springing function, increasing their resistance progressively with suspension contact.
Some vehicles use rubber as the main springing medium. This rubber cone is this vehicle’s main suspension member.
Increasing the load on the suspension causes the cone to act like a spring being deformed. When the load is removed, the rubber’s elastic properties tend to return it to its original state.
Rubber has a number of advantages. It doesn’t need to be lubricated, it can be made into any shape, as required, and it’s silent during use.
