Suspension Ball Joints

Suspension Ball Joints / Cross-Axis Ball Joints

Suspension Ball Joints (SBJs) are commonly applied between control arms and wheel carriers or knuckles of the suspension that allow relative articulation and rotation between the mating components. Depending on its application, the ball joint can transmit longitudinal and lateral forces with only a small proportion of axial/vertical forces (guiding type) as well as the complete vehicle weight in vertical direction (load carrying type). SBJs guide the wheel by allowing for its controlled motion resulting from steering movement and traversing varying terrain.
THK develops and produces a wide range of various high-quality SBJs in conjunction with customer requirements. All technical feasible joining methods are applied to connect the SBJ with adjacent structural parts.
The design of THK’s Load Carrying Ball Joints were particularly developed for heavy duty vehicles requiring convenience and high load capacity. Due to the specific thermoplastic bearing design, low radial and axial movements as well as low turning torques are characteristics that can be achieved while maintaining a high load capacity.


Cross-Axis Ball Joints (CABJs) are primarily used to replace elastomer bushings due to higher requirements for load, stiffness or articulation angle. They are commonly applied between control arms and the vehicle frame and allow for relative rotation between the mating components.
THK develops and produces a wide range of various high-quality CABJs in conjunction with customer requirements. Depending on the customer interface, CABJs can be pressed in or even fully integrated into the structural part, such as a control arm.

THK’s modular SBJ and CABJ design principle includes the entire range of required sizes for a customer’s portfolio of vehicles by applying state-of-the-art designs as well as advanced materials and coatings to ensure functionality and performance in terms of strength and durability, stiffness, low noise level, low friction and lubrication for corrosion protection over the guaranteed lifetime.

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