Ride Height (or simply clearance) is the amount of space between the base of an automobile tyre and the underside of the chassis. Ride height is a crucial factor for off-road vehicles as well as racing cars, where too little clearance could mean bottoming out on rough terrain, or too much clearance adversely affecting aerodynamic properties, respectively. Firestone tire A tire (U.S. spelling) or tyre (UK spelling) is a roughly toroidal piece of material placed on the circumference of a wheel, either for the purpose of cushioning or to protect the wheel from wear and tear. ... A chassis (plural: chassis) consists of a framework which supports an inanimate object, analogous to an animals skeleton; for example in the construction of an automobile or of a firearm. ... An off-road vehicle is considered to be any type of vehicle which is capable of driving off any paved or gravel surface. ... Aerodynamics is a branch of fluid dynamics concerned with the study of gas flows, first analysed by George Cayley in the 1800s. ...
On most automobiles, ride height is modified by changing the length of the suspensionsprings, and is the raison d'etre of many aftermarket suspension kits supplied by manufacturers such as Eibach, H&R and Spax. Suspension may refer to: suspension (chemistry) suspension bridge suspension (music) suspension (vehicle) (system of shock absorbers and supports that connect a vehicle to its wheels) suspension (civil engineering) (system that connects a structure to its foundation, for example in earthquake protection) suspension (topology) suspension (body modification) suspension bondage suspension (figure... Springs A spring is a flexible elastic object used to store mechanical energy. ... ...
Some modern automobiles have adjustable suspension systems, which can vary the ride height by locating the suspension mounting points, depending on road conditions and/or the settings selected by the driver.
Other, simpler suspension systems, such as coilover springs, offer a way of manually adjusting ride height (and often, spring stiffness) by compressing the spring in situ, using a threaded shaft and adjustable knob or nut. A coilover is an automobile adjustable suspension device. ...
When the suspension is lower than its normal rideheight, the system module energizes a relay to turn on a compressor and pump air into the air springs, shocks or struts through solenoid valves.
Maintaining a consistent rideheight is important because rideheight affects wheel alignment, tire wear, handling, traction and the aiming of the headlights.
If a change in rideheight isn't accomplished within three minutes after the need is indicated, the system warning lamp comes on and stays on as long as the ignition remains on.
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