Suspension Guide

•  Springs

What they do: Springs support the vehicle’s weight and determine ride height. They define how much force is required to compress the suspension.

While shocks control the speed of suspension movement, springs control the load and resistance to compression.

Why they matter in the sand: In dune bashing, the suspension is constantly cycling at speed over uneven terrain. Springs must absorb repeated impacts, manage weight transfer, and prevent excessive body movement without sacrificing traction.

Different spring ratings change how the Jeep behaves in sand:

Single-Rate Springs

              •            Same stiffness through the entire suspension travel

              •            Provide a consistent, predictable feel

In sand, they either:

              •            Feel comfortable but bottom out on big dune crests (if soft), or

              •            Feel stable on big hits but harsh and skittish over chop (if stiff)

Dual-Rate Springs

              •            Softer initial section, stiffer as the spring compresses.

              •            Initial softness helps the tires stay planted over small ripples and chopped sand

              •            Stiffer secondary rate resists bottoming out on big hits and dune transitions

              •            This creates better balance between comfort and control

Triple-Rate Springs

              •            Three distinct stages: very soft, medium, and stiff

              •            Soft initial rate absorbs small chatter and vibration

              •            Mid-rate supports the vehicle during normal driving and weight transfer

              •            Final rate protects against hard bottom-outs at high speed or sharp crests

              •            Provides the widest operating window and best control at speed

 

When to upgrade: Upgrading springs becomes necessary when larger or heavier tires are installed, additional weight is added (bumpers, skid plates, roof racks) or the vehicle bottoms out or feels unstable at speed in sand

• Track Bar

What it does: The track bar locates the solid axle side to side under the Jeep. It prevents the axle from shifting left or right during driving.

Why it matters in sand: At speed over uneven dunes, the axle experiences large lateral forces. Any flex or movement in the track bar directly translates into steering instability.

When to upgrade: As soon as you lift the Jeep more than ~2 inches or if you experience steering shake or vague steering on sand. For dune bashing, a heavy-duty adjustable track bar is considered mandatory. 

• Drag Link

What it does: The drag link connects the steering box to the steering knuckle and physically turns the wheels.

Why it matters in sand: Dune driving involves constant steering corrections at speed. A weak or flexing drag link causes delayed steering response and contributes to wobble.

When to upgrade: Recommended with larger tires (35"+) or aggressive driving. If you dune bash often, upgrading early improves precision and safety.

• 
  Tie Rod

What it does: The tie rod connects both front wheels together and keeps them aligned while steering.

Why it matters in sand: Side loads from ruts and dune transitions can bend or flex stock tie rods, causing toe changes while driving.

When to upgrade: Strongly recommended when running heavier tires or bead locks. For dune bashing, a heavy-duty tie rod prevents alignment changes mid-run.

• 
  Control Arms (Upper and lower)

What they do: Control arms position the axle forward/backward and control caster and pinion angles.

Why they matter in sand: Correct geometry keeps the Jeep stable at speed and prevents nose diving or wandering on dune faces.

When to upgrade: When lifting the vehicle or if you feel instability at speed. Adjustable control arms are recommended for any serious dune setup.

• 
  Sway Bar

What it does: The sway bar limits body roll by linking both sides of the suspension together.

Why it matters in sand: Too stiff = reduced articulation. Too soft or disconnected at speed = instability.

When to upgrade: No need to upgrade, stock performs good enough.

• Sway Bar Links

What they do: Connect the sway bar to the axle. Never disconnect the sway bar links during desert driving.

Why they matter in sand: Incorrect length after a lift can preload the sway bar, affecting handling.

When to upgrade: After any lift. Adjustable links ensure correct sway bar geometry. Heavy duty links recommended to prevent breaking at higher level drives.

• Steering Stabilizer

What it does: Reduces steering kickback and vibration.

Why it matters in sand: Helps reduce fatigue and minor vibrations, but does NOT fix underlying issues.

When to upgrade: Optional. Never use it to mask poor geometry or worn components.

 

Key Takeaways for Dune Bashing

• Steering and track bar strength matter more in sand than rock crawling.
• Geometry is critical for stability at speed.
• Upgrade in this order for dunes: Springs → Track Bar → Control Arms → Drag Link & Tie Rod.
• Never rely on a steering stabilizer to fix wobble or instability.

Visit Kaju Suspension Collection for recommended suspension products.