Your suspension system is responsible for more than just enabling a comfortable ride. The proper hardware can also improve handling and stability, allowing for an enjoyable and safer driving experience. When the time comes to replace the struts on your truck or SUV, you'll have the option of deciding between loaded and unloaded struts. So which one should you choose?

The fact is that each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you must understand what they offer before you make a decision. This article has all the answers you're looking for, so let's dive right into it.

What Does a Strut Do?

Before you understand the difference between unloaded and loaded struts, it helps to know what the part does. So, what is a strut? A strut is typically the largest individual component in your suspension system, and its primary function is to provide a smooth and stable ride. It's made up of a spring and a shock absorber that work alongside each other.

While the spring absorbs bumps in the road and supports the vehicle's weight, the shock absorber controls the spring recoil rate, preventing excessive bouncing or instability. That is the difference between a strut and shock absorber — the strut is an integral structural component of the vehicle, and the shock absorber is an individual component, usually a part of the strut.

Most vehicles on the road today will feature struts in their suspension system. In most cases, this eliminates the requirement of an upper control arm and ball joint, usually seen in more conventional suspension systems. The main benefit to this is the reduced overall weight.

Pros & Cons of Loaded Struts

Loaded struts come with everything you'd need to perform a direct swap of the existing strut assembly on your truck or SUV. This includes the spring, shock absorber, and the strut mount. For this reason, they're notably easier to install onto your vehicle, saving both time and money in labor costs.

Secondly, you can be sure that all the components that make up your suspension assembly are brand new. This reduces the likelihood of another individual part failing soon. It's a good idea to change all the components involved, including the mounts, spring insulators, and bearings, and loaded struts take care of it all at once.

For example, a worn shock absorber won't be as effective as a new one. This may force the coil spring to compensate and work harder to keep the vehicle in control, causing additional wear.

Another advantage with loaded struts is that they are readily available and are the preferred option with most mechanics and service centers, as there's not much work required to get the vehicle up and running again. You won't have to worry about compressing the spring or matching the spring rate to the vehicle's weight across all four wheels.

Lastly, since loaded struts are entire assemblies, they usually have a more extended warranty covering all the parts involved. In any case, the peace of mind this brings, especially on an off-road vehicle subject to greater forces, is unmatchable.

Regarding cons, the only major disadvantage with loaded struts is the price. Since it's an assembly of multiple parts, you might be paying for specific parts that may not require an immediate replacement. That said, as mentioned above, it's best to bear the added cost and change all the involved components at the same time.

Pros & Cons of Unloaded Struts

As you may have figured, unloaded struts differ from loaded struts in that it doesn't include the additional hardware required to carry out a complete suspension overhaul — it comprises just the strut.

With unloaded struts, the most significant benefit has to be the cost. Since you're only paying for the strut, you'll be saving a fair chunk of change. An unloaded strut might make more sense if you're on a budget. That said, remember that unloaded struts will require more attention and time to install, so if you're getting the job done by a professional, the cost of labor might add up, negating the money you saved by choosing these over loaded struts.

Dismantling and replacing a strut involves specialized tools, so it's a job that would be best left to an experienced individual. If not, you could end up causing damage to the coil spring.

Besides the cost-saving factor, off-road enthusiasts sometimes prefer unloaded struts since they allow for much more customization. You have the option to use a custom spring and shock absorber setup that best suits your needs or requirements, which can be beneficial if you're building a hardcore off-road vehicle. A loaded strut assembly, while easier to install, will not allow for as much flexibility.

Overall Consideration Factors

There are multiple factors involved in the decision between loaded and unloaded struts. As mentioned, one of them is price. While unloaded struts might be more affordable, they might just end up costing more to replace due to the time involved in carrying out the rebuild. On the flip side, they're the better option if you're looking for maximum performance — a high-spec shock absorber and spring bought separately may outperform a particularly loaded strut for the same price.

With loaded struts, you're paying a premium upfront, but you will have peace of mind knowing that most of the hardware in your suspension setup is now brand new. Plus, if you know your way around a vehicle and have access to basic tools, you could even replace some loaded struts on your own.

It's also worth checking to see what options are available for your vehicle before deciding on either. In some cases, the loaded strut options you find for your truck or SUV may not be adequate for the performance you're looking for.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget and requirements. If you're building a purpose-built off-road machine you want to extract maximum performance from, unloaded struts might be your better option. On the other hand, if you're looking for something to replace the existing hardware on your daily driver, and if your budget allows it, a loaded struts assembly from a reputable company should be plenty enough. Either way, you'll find the parts you need at 4 Wheel Parts, backed by the most knowledgeable customer service team around.