Torsion, << TAWR shuhn, >> bar suspension is a method of absorbing the shock, or energy, that results when an automobile travels over uneven road surfaces and bumps. When a car with coil springs strikes a bump, the coils press closer together and absorb the energy. In torsion suspension, a torsion bar replaces the coils in the front end of the car. A torsion bar is actually a coiled spring that has been straightened. Whereas a spring presses together to absorb energy, a torsion bar is subjected to torsion (twisting).
A torsion bar consists of a steel rod attached to an arm from the front wheel. When the car strikes a bump, the torsion bar twists to absorb the energy. Torsion bars take up less room than coil springs.
