SHACKLES AND RIDING EASE

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 522, 27 November 1928, Page 7

SHACKLES AND RIDING EASE

NEW STUDEBAKER DEVICE A most noticeable improvement in motoring comfort has been made possible by new ball-bearing spring shackles, which are featured in the new' Studebaker models recently imported into Auckland. For years engineers have sought to reduce friction to a minimum at the spring shackles, vital points which link the body and the axles of the car. They have tried to make the shackles flexible yet firm and uniform in action, to make them noiseless and to eliminate the need for frequent lubrication. The ball-bearing spring shackles on the new Studebaker have completely solved these problems. They give an undeviating uniformity of action, give the springs free play to smooth out road irregularities and add buoyancy to the car’s riding qualities. The incessant action and reaction of the springs is carried on 172 steel balls rolling in lubricant. This means no binding, no squeaks, no rattles, no side-sway. And in place of complicated systems for oiling and greasing each ball-bearing spring shackle contains sealed within it ample lubricant to last for more than 20,000 miles. In addition to the new ball-bearing spring shackles, all the new Studebaker models are equipped with hydraulic shock absorbers front and rear. Designers of the new cars did not stop with the development of new and easier spring action. A wholly new type of form-fitting lounge cushion has been created, with contours designed to conform to the shape of the body. In many models the upholstery is of the over-stuffed type, deeply tuflzed and projecting somewhat over the edge of the bottom seat cushion.