[Gatorfreak]

Like the topic says.

 

[Retro]

Re: Dumb, I know: struts/dampers/shocks - all the same thing? (Gatorfreak)

Struts are the system for using the shocks, so shocks would be part of the struts. Dampers are shocks. Everybody understands when you say shocks, so I just use that.

 

[GoFaster]

Re: Dumb, I know: struts/dampers/shocks - all the same thing? (Retro)

A shock absorber does just that. (Example: your trailing arm and beam axle rear suspension. The shock absorber absorbs shocks but has nothing to do with the path that the wheel takes as the suspension moves up and down.)
A strut does that, but in addition, the mechanism of the shock absorber also does part of the job of locating the wheel. (Example: your MacPherson strut front suspension. Take out the strut, and the wheel flops around, because the strut hangs onto the steering knuckle which is where the wheel is attached.)
Brian P.
'96 Passat TDI mit UPsolute

 

[trev'sGTI]

Re: Dumb, I know: struts/dampers/shocks - all the same thing? (GoFaster)

a shock absober does not absorb shocks like its nomencalture would have you believe. the springs
have the duty of absorbing shocks. the shocks job is to return the wheel to its original position, otherwise
the spring will continue to bounce up and down until friction has stopped it.