Ranger Raptor’s Suspension: The Ultimate Predictor and Preparer

**Introduction**

The Ford Ranger Raptor is renowned for its off-road performance and capability, with a powerful engine and a purpose-built suspension system that provides ultimate control and confidence to adventure-seeking owners. The vehicle’s FOX Shocks with Live Valve Technology were specially engineered to manage dynamic loads and enhance the vehicle’s capability. The combination of passive and semi-active systems in the suspension system allows the Ranger Raptor to adapt to various terrains and driving conditions, providing a comfortable ride on light terrain and increased damping on more aggressive terrain. The addition of semi-active Live Valve technology takes the Ranger Raptor’s suspension to the next level, providing additional damping that can deliver the best of both worlds in real-time driving situations.

**Enhanced Capability**

The new Ranger Raptor’s enhanced capability is a result of its FOX Shocks with Live Valve combining passive and semi-active systems. The unique shimmed bypass ports inside the shock absorber allow the super-slippery Teflon-infused oil to flow around the shock, providing different levels of damping force based on the damper stroke position. These carefully crafted ride zones within the shock absorber allow the vehicle to adapt to its environment and respond to the driver’s inputs naturally. The system can adjust within milliseconds, providing a comfortable ride in Normal mode and increased damping in Sport mode for flatter cornering. The Live Valve system controls the flow of oil around the damper based on drive modes such as Baja mode, predicting and preparing for the driving style and terrain conditions.

**Live Valve Technology**

The Ranger Raptor’s semi-active Live Valve system utilizes a series of linked sensors around the vehicle to measure steering, throttle, brake force, chassis acceleration, rotational velocities, and ride height 500 times a second. Based on a series of unique algorithms, the system can predict and prepare for the driver’s inputs and the terrain conditions. This technology allows for real-time adjustments in damping, providing the best-of-both-worlds in terms of on- and off-road performance, handling, and ride quality. The Live Valve system enhances the Ranger Raptor’s capability and control, making it a true performance vehicle in terms of responsiveness to driver input.

**Semi-Active Suspension**

The addition of semi-active Live Valve technology elevates the Ranger Raptor’s suspension to the next level, offering additional damping that can adapt to various driving conditions and terrains. This system provides a balance between on- and off-road performance, as well as handling and ride quality, breaking the traditional compromise associated with suspension tuning. The Live Valve system’s ability to adjust damping within milliseconds ensures a smooth and controlled driving experience for Ranger Raptor owners, enhancing their confidence and control both on and off the road.

**Conclusion**

The Ford Ranger Raptor’s suspension system, featuring FOX Shocks with Live Valve Technology, sets it apart as a true off-road performance vehicle. The combination of passive and semi-active systems allows for adaptive damping based on the terrain and driving conditions, providing a comfortable ride on light terrain and increased damping on more aggressive terrain. The addition of semi-active Live Valve technology takes the Ranger Raptor’s suspension to the next level, offering real-time adjustments in damping to deliver the best-of-both-worlds in terms of performance and capability. With its advanced suspension system, the Ranger Raptor provides owners with ultimate control and confidence while off-road, solidifying its reputation as a legendary off-road vehicle.

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