摘要 |
A vehicle suspension assembly includes a shock absorber that provides variable damping dependent on the load conditions of the vehicle. A central rod of the shock absorber includes a central bore that is fluidly coupled with air pressure within air springs of the suspension assembly. As the vehicle load increases and the pressure within the air springs increases, a damping adjustment assembly within the shock absorber increases the stiffness or damping of the shock absorber. In one example, a plunger moves within the central bore in the rod between a first position where less damping is provided and a second position where increased damping is achieved. A unique adapter member facilitates using a rod of appropriate size to achieve the desired air pressure conditions within the rod, while at the same time supporting conventional piston and disc valve components and providing enough material strength to withstand the tensile loads experienced under full extension. The adapter also includes a check valve to control fluid flow and provides a hydraulic cushion feature.
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