Suspension problem (minimal width)

[Sokratesz]

Ola, I'm trying to build a (driven, not steered) suspension for a truck based on double 24*43 wheels, however it seems to be limited to a certain minimal width:

differential & 2 support studs + 2 universal joints on either side = 5 + 6 + 6 = 17 width

2x support studs at the other end of the joints, plus the tyres themselves: 2 + (2x6) = 14

total: 31 studs wide which is at least 4 more than I would like. How can I reduce this? The 2x universal joints are needed to make it work with suspension since I don't own any fancy CV joints :/

I have loads of steering and suspension parts from old sets (8880 etc), can I somehow make it work with those at a smaller width? without having to buy new parts?

- Sok.

Edited October 15, 2011 by Sokratesz

[Zerobricks]

What about using a live axle?

[dhc6twinotter]

What about using a live axle?

X2

Sok, if you are building a non steered axle with duals, the best way is to go with a live axle.

[Sokratesz]

I considered that but it doesn't seem too easy given that I want two or three of these axles at the rear of the truck. Using a live axle would mean that the suspension isn't fully independent any more.

I'll give it a try though, maybe a live axle with different segments will work..

- Sok.

[efferman]

where is a need for a full independent suspension on rear truck Axles? Except Tatra is no one Truck manufacturer using a independent suspension. it is more simple, more stable and not so wide.

[Sokratesz]

That's true :) I guess it just sounds awesome.

- Sok.

[Splat]

I would also recommend live axles for a truck, but if you really want independent suspension, you could try using funfen0's technique of moving the differential out from between the wheels. This might save some space to keep the width of truck to a minimum, but you need to find some other place to put the differential in the chassis.

See this post for more details.

Edited April 10, 2013 by Splat