Radial Tuned Suspension?

[zieg85]

A question on Facebook got me to wondering this question I have always wondered.  Was it just a buzz marketing phrase or was something really done to "TUNE" the suspension over previous years.  I have my guesses but does anyone truly know?

[MIKE S]

With the switch to radial tires in the 70s, alignment was a big factor. I remember my 74 Monte Carlo had a ton of caster in it. Front tires looked like a chopper motorcycle when turned to the extreme. I'm sure there were other tweeks but I think that was the main factor.

[Shifty]

Some of it was the switch to gas-charged shocks over oil-filled.

[zieg85]

With the switch to radial tires in the 70s, alignment was a big factor. I remember my 74 Monte Carlo had a ton of caster in it. Front tires looked like a chopper motorcycle when turned to the extreme. I'm sure there were other tweeks but I think that was the main factor.

Good point, I will have to see if I can find my old alignment specs, maybe compare 73 to 1980 where radial tires were probably standard equipment

[VileZambonie]

Where did you see it as a buzz marketing phrase for these trucks? I'm not familiar with that advert

[zieg85]

Where did you see it as a buzz marketing phrase for these trucks? I'm not familiar with that advert

Not for the trucks, I remember it on full sized mid 70's cars

[VileZambonie]

Reducing rolling resistance and improving steering & suspension geometry was a necessity. Marketers will always try to put some kind of spin on design evolution. It's not a phrase worthy of differentiating your ride and is comical at best. Dude, my car has radial tuned suspension! No way bro!? 

[JohnnyPopper]

http://holdenpaedia.oldholden.com/Radial_tuned_suspension

For a real hoot waste 6 minutes of your life here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IT08BiLDMko

[Stewart G Griffin]

We had one of those 80's bonnevilles and on right on the dash was printed in chrome letters, "Radial Tuned Suspension"

i'll look into when i get a chance.    Pontiac was so awesome.   i'll never forgive the Obama administration for what they did......

[Stewart G Griffin]

i have to add that this was the smoothest car i've ever ridden in.

The old B and C bodies.   That kind of car is missing from the automotive landscape.........