(918) 266-6088
19320 East Admiral Place Catoosa, OK 74015
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Automotive Q & A

Shock Absorbers

Question: How shock absorbers function?

Answer: Shock absorbers are an integral part of a vehicle’s suspension. A shock absorber is designed to absorb or dampen the compression and rebound of the springs and suspension. They control the unwanted and excess spring motion. Shock absorbers keep your tires in contact with the road at all times. Before going any further, let’s discuss some key terms that will help us understand how shock absorbers work. Back in elementary school we learned about energy, more specifically, we learned about potential and kinetic energy. We also learned about the Law of Conservation of Energy. The Law of Conservation of Energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, it can only change forms. Potential energy is stored energy and kinetic energy is energy in motion. Now, let’s get back to shock absorbers. When you hit any bump or dip in a road, your vehicle’s suspension and springs move so the tire can stay in contact with the road and absorb the energy. The shock absorbers dampen the movement of the springs by converting the spring’s kinetic energy into thermal (heat) energy. This thermal energy is then degenerated in hydraulic fluid. Shock absorbers are an oil-filled cylinder. When your vehicle’s suspension moves, a piston moves up and down through the oil-filled cylinder. The up-and-down movement of the piston forces small amounts of fluid through orifices (tiny holes) in the piston head. Since only a small amount of fluid is forced out, this slows down the suspension’s movement and dampens the compression and rebound of the springs. Shock absorbers are also velocity-sensitive. This means that the faster the springs are moving, the more resistance the shock absorber provides.

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Larry's Complete Tire & Auto in Catoosa, OK

If you're looking for complete automotive care in Catoosa, Tulsa, or Broken Arrow, look no further than Larry's Complete Tire & Auto. With more than 50 years of experience and more than 30 years as a family-owned and operated business, Larry's Complete Tire & Auto offers a level of service and care that you won't find anywhere else.  Our skilled technicians are ASE and ASA certified to provide the best quality service for your vehicle.  Our AAA-certified repair shop uses Moog brand products for all steering and suspension work.  Customer service is the foundation of our business and we focus on delivering only the best in pricing and workmanship. 

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Phone: (918) 266-6088
Fax: (918) 266-3475
Address: 19320 East Admiral Place
Catoosa, OK 74015

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