The article explores the three different rear suspension systems in the Ford F-150, highlighting the unique design considerations and driving requirements for each variant. The author emphasizes that while most F-150s are work trucks with basic suspension for durability and strength, others, like the off-road Raptor and the electric Lightning, require specialized rear suspensions to meet their distinct performance needs.
The article illustrates the first type of suspension, a leaf spring system known as the Hotchkiss suspension, which has been used in F-series trucks since the original F-1 in 1948. It explains the drawbacks of this system, including wind-up under braking and acceleration and limitations in twist during roll, as well as the subsequent shift to coil-sprung multilink live axle designs and independent suspensions for improved ride and handling.
The piece delves into the suspension of the F-150 Raptor, which replaced the leaf spring rear suspension with a five-link coil spring system to enhance off-road performance and address the limitations of the base platform. The transition necessitated significant changes to the frame, involving new brackets and cross members to accommodate the new suspension design.
Furthermore, the article examines the rear suspension of the F-150 Lightning, an all-electric truck, which features an independent suspension due to the unique challenges posed by the vehicle’s electric powertrain. It explores the architectural changes required for the Lightning, including the use of a semi-trailing arm system with coil-over damper modules and the lowering of the rear frame rail to accommodate the absence of an axle tube.
The piece underscores the distinctiveness of the three rear suspension designs in the Ford F-150, reflecting the diverse requirements and driving dynamics of each variant. It also highlights the practical implications of these design choices, such as improved crash structure efficiency in the Lightning and enhanced off-road performance in the Raptor.
