Been working on a simple plan for a front linkage for my cruiser. I like the three link, I really just need to do more research. I love the way my rear 4-link travels. My pinion angle doesn't change much, just enough to do it right. I think it would be ideal in the front, as the steering geometry wouldn't change much as it travels. My links are around 39" but that damn oil pan is in the way, so it wont fit! Has anyone ever tried bent upper links as if they were "bow legged". You know, in order to go around the oil pan but still remain triangulated?
I'm working on redesigning the same overall design as my rear 4-link to fit up front. If I could make the links a few inches shorter it would fit better, say 30"- 33". I was thinking if I don't change the geometry of the suspension linkage, keeping the same intersection points of the angles. Just move where the axle would be orientated in the lines, does that make sense??
If I kept the frame mounts the same horizontally and vertically, then move the axle forward. To keep the same geometry I'd increase the horizontal separation between the upper axle mounts, and narrow the horizontal gap on the lower axle mounts. The vertical separation at the axle would also decrease at the axle as it is closer to the frame mounts. All the angles of the linkage wouldn't change, just the axle mounts and the actual length of the links.
Am I wrong here, or just not making sense? It seems to me, by doing this, the axle would travel close to the same way as it does in the rear. The shorter links would give less travel, and a tighter radius as it travels. No matter what a triangulated 4-link is best in my mind, but a lot more complicated. Sorry if I'm hijacking
also have qu about links can the third top link be shorter then the bottom how much vertical sepration at axle and frame is good
