Suspension Tech General discussion of suspension for the Ford Ranger.

dune suspension

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  #1  
Old 10-25-2014
KyleChristenson's Avatar
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dune suspension

What components would I need for a better suspension for the dunes?

I have a 1992 Ranger 4.0
 
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Old 10-25-2014
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a front solid axle conversion is your best bet

the newer jeep wide body front axles are a near perfect fit for the rangers
 
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Old 10-25-2014
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Uhm, solid axle for the dunes? No.


OP are you 2wd or 4wd
 
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Old 10-25-2014
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Low tire pressure is best suspension for dunes

So carry a pressure gauge and portable compressor, I would start at 15psi and lower as you see fit, most tires require 6-8psi to remain seated on the rim, but a hard corner can still unseat a tire.


Low weight is also best, so 3,200lbs Ranger isn't best, lol
Unless you plan on lowering the weight the 4.0l isn't going to make you fly off any hills, so I don't think suspension travel will be an issue.

Problem with sand is it moves out of the way, so you sink or dig in, keep a steady speed.
Cornering with a front heavy vehicle(like a Ranger) is also an issue as the front will dip and dig in, keep your foot on the gas when turning, 2wd or 4wd, it can help lift front end.
Avoid braking, just let off the gas and you will slow down quite fast, braking builds up a mound of sand in front of each tire, when you start to take off again you may just dig a hole at each wheel, assuming Limited slip.

4 wheel independent suspension with limited slip or locker differentials would of course be best in any off-road environment
 
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Old 10-26-2014
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4 wheel independent suspension with limited slip or locker differentials would of course be best in any off-road environment



LOL what?! No.
IFS and IRS is better in ANY offroad situation? Keep dreaming man. Wow.
 
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Old 10-26-2014
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Interesting statement, I guess we each have our own opinion.

For simplicity, ease of repair and ground clearance, solid axle would be the best choice.

For ride, control and traction, independent wins the day


There are specific situations where solid axle is better and there are specific situations where independent is better, and if you are building a vehicle for only one of those situations then you pick the best for that.
But in general on and off road applications independent is the best choice.

In my opinion, of course.
In sand, independent would be best.
 

Last edited by RonD; 10-26-2014 at 03:45 PM.
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Old 10-26-2014
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Yes. In sand independent is better.

But you said it was better for "all" offroading.
 
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Old 10-26-2014
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OK, that was odd, and it was any not all, lol, semantics, but in any case I guess that's concluded
 
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Old 10-27-2014
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Originally Posted by RonD
OK, that was odd, and it was any not all, lol, semantics, but in any case I guess that's concluded
Any, all, same ****.
 
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Old 10-28-2014
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Why bother bringing up independend rear susp at all? Its a ford ranger..

OP you might want to check out dezertrangers, will be more suited to you.
 
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Old 10-29-2014
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Originally Posted by BLK02
Why bother bringing up independend rear susp at all? Its a ford ranger..

OP you might want to check out dezertrangers, will be more suited to you.
Because its RonD, that's why lol
 
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