
Originally Posted by
mr brg
Shock tower
Thank you! This is one of my pet peeves.
For clarification:
Shock Function
Shock absorbers (dampers) are gas-filled tubes with a valve inside, which is connected to a shaft. When this chassis-connected shaft is compressed, it resists rapid movement and prevents the spring from going into rapid oscillation and "hop."
Strut Function
The strut functions not only as a moving suspension piece, but also as the wheel's upper control arm and support. This simplifies construction and reduces costs.
Or more simply said... A strut is part of a suspension's geometry, a shock is not. Remove a strut and your suspension is incomplete- it just flops around. Remove a shock and you just have no damping- your geometry is still preserved.