SMART 453 Series Introduction Into Service Manual page 60

Axles and suspension
Rear axle suspension
A new feature of the De Dion rear axle are the twin-tube
shock absorbers with separate, barrel-shaped coil springs. Ef-
fective noise insulation of the coil springs between the body
and rear axle is achieved by means of two elastomer shims.
The shock absorber is connected to the body by a pin be-
aring. This has a soft cardan bearing which contributes to
a reduction of friction in the shock absorber and thus an
improvement in response characteristics. The location and
ratio of the shock absorbers provides suspension tuning with
a favorable compromise between damping of roll and pitch.
In addition, the deliberate inclination of the shock absorbers
produces longitudinal damping of the axle.
Suspension variants
A standard and a sports suspension are available for the new
smart.
On the standard suspension, longer spring travel distances, a
friction-optimized supporting length and precise lateral force
compensation create the prerequisites for comfortable sus-
pension behavior.
The sports suspension available as special equipment fea-
tures tighter front and rear axle springs and the vehicle level
is lowered by 10 mm at the front and rear axle compared to
the standard suspension.
P32.00-2077-00
Sectional view of rear axle damping/springing
Introduction of the New smart fortwo coupé and smart forfour | Model Series 453 59
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