The Importance Of Top Mounts

Why Should I Install Top Mounts?

In high level modifications, top mounts are considered to be one of the best components to install in a vehicle for better handling and steering. Alloy top mounts are very common these days because they are versatile and reliable.

These alloy top mounts are typically made from aluminum which means that they are durable and can be used for a number of applications. The bearings, spacers, fasteners and sleeve nuts are usually provided but an important point to note here is that they are only available as pairs.

Types Of Top Mounts

Top mounts have become a very popular suspension modification because of the impact they have on the performance of the vehicle. There are two basic types of top mounts available in the market. They both work in a slightly different way but the core purpose remains the same.

Fixed top mounts are designed to help in retaining the centre position of the OE strut. This takes away the movements that are created by the normal rubber mounts and therefore, provide better handling, steering geometry and traction. These are also known as concentric top mounts and are best suited for standard or racing springs.

 Adjustable top mounts too are designed to provide a better handling and steering geometry but they do this in a slightly different way. In order to reduce the movements created by the rubber mounts, these top mounts allow the adjustment of the camber/caster which is placed on top of the strut. These are referred to, as eccentric top mounts and can only be used with racing diameter springs.

It is safe to say here that top mounts serve a very important purpose in suspension modifications. Performance enthusiasts all over the world have been installing top mounts in their vehicles which have been built for racing in particular.

An Overview Of Track Rod Ends

Track Rod Ends

Track rod ends are essential components which are usually neglected during low-stage modifications. They are most commonly used for building tie rods as well as linkages. Track rod ends are very versatile but changing the can be slightly tricky which is why it should be done carefully.

Purposes Of Track Rod Ends

Track rod ends have in fact become one of the most common performance upgrade for suspensions. This is because they basically help in keeping the tires flatter on the roads. They connect the hub assembly to the steering assembly to provide better handling and traction.

Another important function of the track rod ends is to reduce tire spin when accelerating from a standstill position. This is very important for any automobile which has been built for extreme performance purposes. Uncontrolled and unnecessary tire spin can cause the vehicle to drag and loose valuable tract time.

However, there are some points which need to be considered when installing track rod ends into a vehicle. A faulty steering system or suspension will not be able to properly support the track rod ends. Any other modifications to the suspension too need to be done carefully as they can impact the performance of these components.

For example, lowering the height of a vehicle can improve its overall performance but it might not be a good idea to install track rod ends here. This is because even the slightest bumps can cause the suspension to come in contact with the surface and the track rod ends could snap due to the impact.

Track rod ends are therefore, most commonly used for vehicles designed for extreme modifications where all the aspects of its use and application are covered in much detail. The installation process is fairly simple and so is the replacement process which is also why they are so popular