Strut bar

Types of strut bars

A strut bar is a part of a car's suspension system. It is a metal bar that connects the strut towers on one side of the vehicle. The main goal of a strut bar is to improve the car's handling and stability, particularly during turns or when driving on winding roads. Strut bars come in different types. Here are some of them:

• Front strut bars

  Front strut bars are one of the most popular types of strut bars. They connect the two front strut towers. The bars may have a round or oval pipe shape. They also have end plates that bolt onto the strut tower studs. Front strut bars help drivers feel a more responsive steering experience. The bars also reduce body roll, especially in front-heavy cars. Sports cars and vehicles used for racing often come with front strut bars. Car enthusiasts also add front strut bars to improve handling.

• Rear strut bars

  Like front strut bars, rear strut bars also connect the two rear strut towers. The bars also have end plates that match the rear suspension layout of different cars. Rear strut bars balance handling and stability during acceleration. They also improve cornering grip for rear wheels. As a result, drivers get better traction when driving fast. Cars with rear-wheel drive tend to benefit the most from rear strut bars. However, any car can install rear strut bars to enhance performance.

• Adjustable strut bars

  Adjustable strut bars are a unique type of strut bar. They allow users to change the length or angle of the bar. This helps the bar fit perfectly on different cars with minor variations in strut tower placement. The designs of adjustable strut bars differ. Some have threaded ends that screw into the tower mounts. Others use sliding joints with clamps. Apart from allowing the strut bar to fit well, adjustability also lets drivers fine-tune suspension response. For example, drivers can set the bar for a stiffer feel on race tracks.

• Diagonal strut bars

  Unlike the front and rear strut bars, diagonal strut bars are usually found on race cars. They connect one strut tower to the opposite side's firewall or footwell area. The bars help reduce flex on the car's chassis. This ensures that suspension geometry stays precise, especially when pushing the car to its limits. Diagonally placed bars also prevent the cabin from vibrating when drivers accelerate or brake hard.

• Multi-point strut bars

  Multi-point strut bars go beyond connecting two strut towers. They also connect to other points on the chassis. For instance, some multi-point strut bars link to the firewall, floor, or seat belt anchors. These bars help increase the overall stiffness of the chassis. Drivers enjoy a more consistent feel from the suspension. Multi-point strut bars benefit drivers who race on tracks. Street enthusiasts who want to improve their car's handling can also install these strut bars.

Specification & Maintenance of Strut Bar

When buying a strut brace, here are the specifications and features to consider:

• Construction Material

  A strut bar is made of different materials, which offer different advantages. One of the most common materials is steel. Steel strut bars are affordable and strong. They provide good support for the struts. However, a steel strut bar can add weight to the car. Aluminum strut bars are lightweight. They are also resistant to corrosion. Aluminum strut bars are affordable, but they are not as strong as steel or carbon fiber strut bars. Carbon fiber strut bars are the most expensive. They are lightweight and very strong. A carbon fiber strut bar can improve the performance of a sports car. However, a carbon fiber strut bar has a higher price compared to the other two options.
  Type of Strut Bar
  There are three types of strut bars. The first type is the front strut bar. The front strut bar is installed in front-wheel cars. It connects the two front strut towers. The second type is the rear strut bar. The rear strut bar is installed in rear-wheel-drive cars. It connects the two rear strut towers. The third type is the adjustable strut bar. The adjustable strut bar can be adjusted to fit different car models.

Maintaining a strut bar is easy. Here are some of the maintenance tips:

• 1. Inspect the strut bar for any signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks, corrosion, or bent parts. If there are any issues, repair the strut bar.

• 2. Clean the strut bar with soapy water to remove dirt and grime. Rinse the strut bar with clean water and wipe it dry with a clean cloth.

• 3. Lubricate the adjustable joints of the strut bar with a suitable lubricant. This will help the joints move smoothly.

• 4. Ensure that all the bolts and nuts of the strut bar are tight. Loose bolts can cause the strut bar to move around, affecting its performance.

• 5. A professional mechanic should inspect the strut bar during regular car service.

How to choose strut bars

When buying a strut brace for resale, consider the target market and the car model they use. Strut bars are often designed to fit specific car models. They are not universal. Find out if the target market prefers aftermarket brands or original manufacturer parts. Aftermarket brands offer a wide range of strut bars at competitive prices. Car enthusiasts who prefer original parts may go for strut bars from the manufacturer.

Check the material construction of the strut bars. As mentioned earlier, they come in two main materials - steel and aluminum. Steel strut bars are more durable and offer better stability. They are heavier, which some people don't like. Aluminum strut bars are lightweight. They improve the handling and performance of a vehicle. They are also rust resistant. Aluminum strut bars come in different colors because the material is easy to paint. Consider aluminum strut bars when targeting customers who want a visually appealing engine bay.

Another factor to consider when selecting strut bars to sell is the design. As discussed above, strut bars have different designs depending on the model and make of a car. The most common design is the basic one, which has a bar connecting the two strut towers. Tension and compression are easily dealt with in this design. Some manufacturers use a hollow tube or a triangular design, which is less common.

The diameter and thickness of a strut bar can also affect its performance. A standard strut bar has a 1-inch diameter. Some models have a 1.5-inch diameter, which is more rigid. The thickness of the pipe varies depending on the design. Most strut bars have a 3/16-inch to 1-inch thickness.

When buying a strut bar, check the features offered by the manufacturer. Some bars have polyurethane bushings, which help to absorb shock and vibrations. This improves the stability of the strut bar. Adjustable ends are also a plus when buying a strut bar. They allow users to install the bar in different vehicles and adjust it to their preference.

How to DIY and Replace Strut Bars

Replacing a strut bar is a straightforward process that can be done with basic tools. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace a strut bar:

• Gather the necessary tools: Before starting the replacement process, ensure that you have the right tools for the job. Typically, an adjustable wrench, socket wrench, and ratchet will be needed. A torque wrench may also be required to tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Prepare the vehicle: Make sure that the automobile is parked on a flat, level surface. To ensure safety, engage the parking brake and set wheel chocks around the wheels.
• Locate the strut bar: Open the automobile hood and find the strut bar. It is positioned across the top of the front suspension struts and connects the two strut mounting points.
• Remove any covers or accessories: Depending on the vehicle model, there may be covers or accessories mounted on top of the strut bar. Remove any fasteners or clips holding these components in place to gain access to the strut bar.
• Loosen the bolts: Using the appropriate socket wrench, loosen the bolts securing the strut bar to the strut mounting points. There are usually two bolts on each end of the strut bar. Be cautious not to strip or damage the bolts while loosening them.
• Remove the old strut bar: Once the bolts are loosened, carefully lift the strut bar off the strut mounting points. Take note of any alignment or positioning features to ensure proper installation of the new strut bar.
• Install the new strut bar: Position the new strut bar in line with the strut mounting points. Make sure it is properly aligned with any guide pins or features. Then, carefully lower it onto the strut mounting points.
• Tighten the bolts: Using the socket wrench, tighten the bolts securing the strut bar to the strut mounting points. Start with a few turns to ensure proper alignment, then use a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer's specifications. Be sure to tighten the bolts in a balanced or crisscross pattern to avoid strut bar distortion.
• Reinstall any covers or accessories: If there were any covers or accessories removed earlier, reinstall them on top of the new strut bar. Secure them using the appropriate fasteners or clips.
• Test the new strut bar: Before driving the vehicle, check that the strut bar is correctly installed and all bolts are tightened securely. Open the car hood and visually inspect the strut bar to ensure proper alignment and clearance with other engine components.
• Take a test drive: Once satisfied with the strut bar installation, take a test drive to evaluate the vehicle's handling and performance. Pay attention to any unusual noises or handling issues and make adjustments if necessary.

Q&A

Q1: Does a strut bar really make a difference?

A1: Yes, a strut bar can make a difference in a vehicle's handling, especially in cars with independent front strut suspension systems. By reducing the chassis flex, it improves the car's cornering stability. However, the difference might not be very noticeable in everyday driving.

Q2: Is a strut bar worth it?

A2: Whether a strut bar is worth it or not depends on various factors. For casual drivers, especially in a road car, the benefits might not be significant. But for performance enthusiasts, track drivers, or those who handle cars with a tendency to flex, the strut bar can be worth the investment.

Q3: Can a beginner install a strut bar?

A3: Yes, a beginner can install a strut bar. It's a relatively straightforward process that involves bolting the bar to the strut tops. Most come with installation instructions, and basic hand tools are needed.

Q4: Which is better: a front strut or rear strut tower brace?

A4: The choice between a front and rear strut tower brace depends on the vehicle's handling characteristics and the driver's preferences. A front brace typically provides more immediate gains in steering precision, while a rear brace can enhance balance and stability, particularly in rear-wheel-drive cars.

Q5: How long does a strut bar last?

A5: The lifespan of a strut bar varies depending on the material, usage, and environmental conditions. Aluminum bars may show wear after several years of regular use, while steel bars can last longer but may corrode over time. It's essential to inspect the strut bar periodically and replace it when necessary.