Uniball suspension in off-road vehicles – advantages, disadvantages, why it is worth it

Originally, uniballs appeared in the heavy industry: construction machinery, agricultural equipment, aviation, and specialised vehicles. They entered passenger cars relatively recently. Although such a connection reduces comfort, for off-road drivers—especially those competing in rallies or rockcrawling—they offer a set of unmatched benefits:

1. Extreme Steering Precision and Stiffness

In motorsport, the vehicle must go exactly where the driver wants, reacting as quickly as possible. Uniballs eliminate deflection and delay that are unavoidable with rubber or polyurethane bushings. They provide minimal play and maximum joint stiffness. The metallic spherical connection results in more precise and stable handling and better vehicle feedback, as wheel and suspension movements are transmitted to the chassis instantly.

2. High Strength and Load Resistance

Uniballs are known for exceptional strength and resistance to loads and extreme conditions. They are ideal components for vehicles built for high-performance applications where durability under stress is crucial. They are designed to carry high axial loads and moderate radial loads.

3. Superior Suspension Articulation

In off-road rallies and rockcrawling, suspension articulation is critical. Uniballs offer more freedom and a wider range of movement compared to elastic bushings. They increase suspension articulation, improving stability over uneven terrain and reducing chassis roll.

4. Full Control Over Suspension Geometry

Using uniballs—often combined with adjustable control arms—allows precise geometry adjustments. Thanks to the threaded shank, the driver has full control over suspension setup according to their driving style and conditions, enabling maximum vehicle performance. It is up to the user to choose the appropriate camber or caster angles to perfectly match the vehicle to the terrain.

Premium Construction: Why Choose PTFE-Lined Uniballs?

Uniball joints can be made in many configurations and from different grades of steel—from aluminium to stainless steel. In cheaper models, the contact is typically steel-on-steel without any sliding material. Such bearings require lubrication and cleaning to maintain their properties and durability. In high-quality components, especially those used in harsh environments (such as off-road, agriculture, or construction), the sliding layer inside the race is made of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), also known as Teflon.