Inside Pro Comp’s Pickup Suspension Roll-Over Testing
Upfitting pickups with aftermarket suspension systems to get taller tires, and, consequently, more ground clearance, is common in the work truck world.
But along with suspension lifts comes a higher center of gravity – and an increase in the possibility of a roll-over under extreme conditions.
The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS 126) test was established to ensure aftermarket suspension systems worked seamlessly with the vehicle’s Electronic Stability Control system.
Pro Comp is one of the suspension manufacturers to embrace the new standard.
For example, this highly specialized test was performed to show that the installation of a Pro Comp 6” suspension system, Pro Comp wheels and 35” Pro Comp Tires on a 2014 Ram 1500.
Unlike other manufacturers that have elected to do self-testing through laboratory simulation, Pro Comp’s testing was performed on a test track where the true capabilities of their products could be measured more accurately.
The Ram was fitted with an elaborate array of sensors and test equipment to monitor all aspects of the vehicles movement and dynamics including a robotically operated steering wheel to assure precise and accurate tests.
Adam Trowbridge, Brand Manager of Pro Comp Suspension, explains that the company elected to perform FMVSS 126 due to its relentless drive for quality.
“The new Ram 1500 is going to play a dominant role in new vehicle sales for the rest of 2014 and into 2015,” says Trowbridge. “Consumers want a more impressive performing kit off-road, while still maintaining all of the vehicle’s safety features on-road.
“Pro Comp works hard to make sure our kits excel in both environments. We performed this physical test because we believe this stands as a symbol of our ongoing commitment to safety, engineering and technological advancement.”