1938 LaSalle Production - GM Heritage Center

drop back to its point of attachment to each of the
X-member arms, thus strengthening the junction of
X-member and frame side bar. The X-member central
junction now has the exceptionally great depth of 9 1 ¾¾
inches. Heavy "wolfhides" are used at the center
junction on frames for convertible type cars, for additional
rigidity.
Knee
Action
Most important contributing factor to Cadillac-LaSalle
riding comfort is Knee Action, pioneered by Cadillac
engineers and introduced in 1934.
The reason for a more complete absorption of road
shocks and a greater ease of handling is due in Knee
Action to adherence to fundamental principles regarding
the proper springing of the car's weight. The ideal
is a close approximation of spring rates or of the springs'
flexing ability. Front should be slightly softer than the
rear springs. Then, as the car moves over irregularities
in the road's surface, spring action from front to rear
of the car becomes uniform, shock is absorbed by the
springs and passengers within the car are not conscious
of any disturbances. This is the important reason for the
unequalled Cadillac-LaSalle ride.
Other cars with conventional front axle and leaf type
front springs, and those which employ independent front
suspension without attempting to balance relative
motion between front and rear springs, give a definite
pitching and tossing ride for rear seat passengers. There
is no uniformity between the upward and downward
movement of the front suspension and the rear wheels.
The rideograph records visibly on paper any disturbance
•80«
REVISED 12-15-37