4-link vs. 3-link

[jetmech]

I hate to admit it, but I'm not very familiar with the 3-link and 4-link setups. Could you all enlighten me? And if possible,

[beingblueeyes]

ok my friend here’s some reading to get you started. ill try to find some pics
http://www.auto-ware.com/shoptalk/3_4_lk.htm

[Mang213]

Im interested in this as well. Time for

[408.Luke]

3 like is for circle track (and some offroading) its alot faster out of a corner than a 4 link. 4 links for straight line mainly (and some offroading)

[jetmech]

So what all does a 4 link consist of and how is it setup? Same question for a 3-link

[skeet]

<---- very valuable tool not trying to be a smartass BUT i use google 90% of the time when looking for info such as yours.

[Frenchy]

4 link. There is two types, paralell and triangulated. Every drag race setup I've seen uses a paralell, this is 4 adjustable bars (links) to locate the axle running paralell to the framerails. To keep the axle located side to side you use a panhard bar or a watts link. Triangulated setups are used mainly in off road and bag setups. They allow more articulation and eliminate the need for a panhard bar (why they are popular for bag jobs). Some places you will read about reverse 4links to keep the gas tank. This is a huge mistake, the minute the back end lifts under braking the axle can pull the driveshat out. In either case 2 bars are mounted on top of the axle and two on the bottom thus eliminating wheel hop. That pretty much covers the basics, could get all into geometry and physics but it's a lot to take in at once,

3 link. I'm not real familiar with it, but 2 bars on the bottom, and a triangle shaped link up top (wishbone) 2 mounting points on the axle, one on the frame.

[jetmech]

<---- very valuable tool not trying to be a smartass BUT i use google 90% of the time when looking for info such as yours.

No offense taken, and I do use google often as well. In the case of this suspension stuff, though, I like to get input from people instead of a search engine.

[TxStVanWilder]

Jon build me a 4 link for my new truck!!!