trailingarm

A trailing arm, also known as a trailing link or trailing arm suspension, is a mechanical linkage used in automotive and other vehicle suspension systems to control the movement of wheels relative to the vehicle body. This design is commonly found in rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles, particularly those employing solid axles or live axles.

The trailing arm suspension consists of a single arm or pair of arms connected to the vehicle chassis at one end and to the axle or wheel assembly at the other. The arm is typically mounted via a pivot point, allowing it to swing as the wheel moves vertically. This movement helps maintain wheel alignment while absorbing road irregularities. The trailing arm is called such because its free end trails behind the pivot point when the wheel moves up or down.

One of the primary advantages of trailing arm suspension is its simplicity and durability. The design reduces the complexity of the suspension system compared to independent suspension setups, making it more robust for heavy-duty applications. It also provides a relatively stable ride and helps distribute weight evenly across the axle. However, trailing arm suspensions can sometimes lead to uneven tire wear and less precise handling due to the rigid connection between the wheels.

Trailing arm suspensions are often used in trucks, SUVs, and performance vehicles where a balance of durability and performance is required. Variations of this design, such as the multi-link suspension, incorporate additional arms to improve handling and reduce wheel hop. The trailing arm remains a fundamental component in many suspension systems due to its effectiveness in managing wheel movement and load distribution.