There are many types of leaf spring suspensions that are used in vehicles, these bow-shaped leaf springs act like shock absorbers that soak up bumps for a smoother and more comfortable ride.

Usually, leaf springs are used in vehicles that carry heavy loads, like trucks or vans.

So, what are the different types of leaf spring suspensions ? Let’s break it down here!

Types of Leaf Spring Suspensions

Mainly, leaf springs are divided by two categories according to the number of plates that they’re made of.

The multi-leaf spring, which is the more common one, is made up of more than one metal plate or leaf that is stacked on top of one another and secured with a central bolt through the thickest portion to keep them secure with the longest metal plate sitting on top.

Usually, the multi-leaf spring uses three to five leaves, although some use even more. Because of the multiple leaves, this type of leaf spring offers a stiffer feel, thus increasing its load capacity that’s perfect for more heavy duty vehicles.

The other one is the mono leaf spring, as its name suggests, the mono leaf spring just consists of one piece of metal with a thick center and becomes narrow toward the edges.

Because it only consists of one piece of metal, the mono leaf springs are usually softer than multi-leaf springs, and mainly used on lightweight vehicles.

Other than the number of plates they’re made of, the types of leaf springs also can be determined by its shape, each one will have its benefits but not all will be fit for your ride.

1. Semi-Elliptical Leaf Spring

The semi-elliptical leaf spring is the most common type of this suspension component, with a shape that curves like a bow without a string that is made from several metal plates with the same width but different lengths. The longest plate that sits on top is also referred to as the “master leaf”.

The semi-elliptical leaf spring placed with one end connects directly to the vehicle’s frame, while the other hooks to a shackle. You’ll find them on both front and rear axles in many trucks, while cars typically have them only at the back.

The advantage of using this type of spring is the simple design that translates to more affordable, fewer repairs thus keeps costs down.

Also Read: “What is Parabolic Leaf Spring?“

2. Quarter-Elliptical Leaf Spring

While similar to the semi-elliptical kind, the quarter-elliptical leaf spring or also called a cantilever type of leaf spring is mostly found in older cars, and is shaped like a half-arch.

The distinct characteristic of this suspension component is that it’s only half of the semi-elliptical leaf spring with one end is fixed to the side of the frame through a bolt, while the other end is connected to the front axle.

3. Three-Quarter Elliptical Leaf Spring

The next one we have the three-quarter elliptical leaf spring, its design is like the combination of semi-elliptical leaf spring and a quarter-elliptical leaf spring.

The three-quarter elliptical leaf spring consists of two parts, the shorter piece sits on the axle and connects to the vehicle frame while the longer spring attaches to the frame with a shackle on one end and the smaller spring on the other.

So, because of its design that consists of an addition of components, the three-quarter elliptical leaf spring can provide extra support, and is usually used in older vehicles.

4. Full-Elliptical Leaf Spring

Like its name suggests this type of leaf spring has a shape similar to an oval with two semi-elliptical springs that are joined opposite to each other.

This type of spring is usually used in older cars and they attach directly to the frame and axle. Unlike the other designs, they don’t need shackles because both sides bend equally. However, these days they’re uncommon because they can struggle to keep the wheels properly aligned.

Also Read: “The Difference Between Leaf Spring and Coil Spring Suspension“

5. Transverse Leaf Spring

This leaf spring is like a flipped semi-elliptical one, with the longest leaf on the bottom. And instead of sitting over the axle, it mounts on either side of the wheel.

A U-bolt clamps down on the thickest part to hold it all together. You’d mostly find these in older cars, especially with independent suspension setups.

So, there you go the 5 types of leaf spring suspensions that are used in vehicles.

But, before you decide to use one, make sure that every part of your car (this including the springs) meets the Indonesian standard of safety and quality.

This standard is called the SNI certification, and is used so every product that is sold and distributed in Indonesia is already been tested for its safety and quality aspects.