3. Leaf Spring Suspension
Actual Form: Semi-elliptical steel plates + twin-tube shock absorbers on the rear axle, standard on almost all “cargo-type” golf carts/beach trailers.
Advantages → Application Value
– Superior Load Capacity: 4/5 60Si2Mn steel plates, deflection of 70 mm at a static load of 600 kg, saving 30% vertical space compared to coil springs. The cargo floor can be lowered to 450 mm, making loading and unloading lawn tools easier.
– Maintenance-Free Bushings: The rubber bushings have a lifespan of 5 years/20,000 km. Scenic spot fleets only need to apply anti-rust oil annually, ensuring virtually zero failures.
– Natural Lateral Positioning: Eliminates the need for a Panhard rod or Watt linkage, reducing costs by an additional 60 yuan.
Disadvantages → Application Impact
– Rigid Connection: The spring’s inherent damping is high, resulting in 45 mm of rear axle travel when unladen, which can be noticeable to passengers. However, unladen golf carts are rarely used, so the actual sensation is minimal.
– Weight Concentration: A single spring weighs 4 kg, while a five-spring system weighs 20 kg, adding 14 kg to the weight of coil springs. This increases the range by approximately 1.2%, which is acceptable.
– Average Lateral Stiffness: The rear axle roll angle is 5.5° at a 20° slope, requiring a 19 mm anti-roll bar to reduce the angle to 3.5°. However, most manufacturers omit the anti-roll bar to save costs.
The rear axle suspension is the most practical option for “hauling cargo and occasionally carrying passengers,” and is currently the mainstream rear suspension for 4-6-seat buggies with bucket seats.
Comprehensive Selection Recommendations
– For pure passenger use and budget-conscious use: Front wishbone + rear wishbone (or trailing arm).
– For high-end receptions and frequent cornering in rainy weather: Front double wishbone + rear trailing arm, optionally with an anti-roll bar.
– For primarily hauling cargo/tools and heavy loads: Front wishbone + rear leaf springs, low cost and durable.