Front Suspension: Description
CHANGES, CAUTIONS, CORRECTIONS
- 1972-73 VOLKSWAGEN TYPE 3 - FRONT END NOISE - Replacing ball joints to eliminate front end noise does not usually solve the noise problem. Manufacturer's examinations have proven that ball joints are not usually the cause of front end noise, but rather the shock absorber, stabilizer, and their mounting parts are generally the cause of these noises. Carefully examine all front end components before replacing ball joints in an attempt to stop front end noise.
Independent ball joint type suspension with torsion bars. Front axle beam consists of two horizontal tubes held together at ends by endplates welded to tubes. Torsion bars are mounted inside bottom axle tube. One end of torsion bar is secured to torsion arm and opposite end is secured to axle tube. Upper axle tube contains stabilizer bar connected at both ends to upper torsion arms. Torsion arms are connected to steering knuckles by means of ball joints. Hydraulic shock absorbers are mounted between lower torsion arms at bottom and mount integral with axle tubes at top.