After a trip to Road Atlanta back in June, I'm considering ditching the Panhard bar for a Watts link, but at this stage Im not sure on which brand or type just yet...hence this post.
I understand the function of the watts link, and the advantages it has over the panhard bar setup, but there are some things that I dont understand about the mechanics:
From my understanding, the watts links operates around a "central" pivot point that allows the axle to articulate around a fixed point, allowing the axle to follow an equal arc when cornering left or right(unlike the panhard setup). What I dont understand is what happens when both the left and right side go up and down at the same time, as when hitting a speed bump with both wheels...how is this motion being transferred into the suspension for dissipation?
Also, I notice that some watts links brands allow for the adjustment of the roll center for vehicles that have been lowered. What I dont understand - is there a limit on how much you can lower the rear of the vehicle, and the effective roll center, without negatively affecting how much suspension travel you have??
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
I understand the function of the watts link, and the advantages it has over the panhard bar setup, but there are some things that I dont understand about the mechanics:
From my understanding, the watts links operates around a "central" pivot point that allows the axle to articulate around a fixed point, allowing the axle to follow an equal arc when cornering left or right(unlike the panhard setup). What I dont understand is what happens when both the left and right side go up and down at the same time, as when hitting a speed bump with both wheels...how is this motion being transferred into the suspension for dissipation?
Also, I notice that some watts links brands allow for the adjustment of the roll center for vehicles that have been lowered. What I dont understand - is there a limit on how much you can lower the rear of the vehicle, and the effective roll center, without negatively affecting how much suspension travel you have??
Any input would be greatly appreciated.