"Round the Corner" Torsion Bars
Page 50

If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
r\NE of the disadvantages of torsion rod suspension systems is that the rods have to be of some considerable length to avoid over-stressing, and to find space for them is often difficult. A scheme for achieving the effect of a long rod in approximately half its length is shown in patent No, 895,475. (Ford Motor Co., Ltd,, 88 Regent Street, London, W.I.)
The drawing shows a spring assembly in which the wheel is carried on an upper wishbone link (1) and a lower one. The upper one pivots about the axis (2). The torsion bar is U-shaped, as shown at 3, doubling back on itself to reach an anchor point in line with the wheel.
The actual U-bend (4) of the rods is of larger diameter and is blended smoothly into the rod to avoid creating stressraising points.