A Coil-Over Shock Absorber for Football Tackle Sleds: Case Study
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From Racetrack to Gridiron: Tackling a Shock Absorber Challenge for Football Training Equipment
You might know QA1 for shock absorber performance on pavement—on the street, off-road, or at the track. But recently, we took our engineering expertise somewhere unexpected: the football field.
When a national tackle sled manufacturer needed a custom coil-over shock solution, QA1 stepped up—and delivered.
The Challenge: A Critical Shock Absorber Goes Off the Market
Our partner had relied on the same shock absorber vendor for years—but when that vendor discontinued support, they were left scrambling. The sleds required very specific damping and travel characteristics to replicate the right feel for players on the field.
This wasn’t an off-the-shelf solution. The replacement had to fit within strict compressed and extended lengths, deliver reliable shock travel, and work seamlessly with an existing spring setup. In other words: exacting specs, no room for compromise.
The QA1 Playbook: Analyze, Engineer, Deliver
Our engineering team got to work, starting with a full analysis of the existing product. We dyno-tested the original shock to map out its damping profile, tested the springs for rate and compatibility, and built a prototype that could match the performance players were used to.
After iterative refinement and close collaboration with the customer, we developed a new coil-over solution that not only fit—but improved upon—the original setup.
Fast Response, No Delays
While our customer was working toward a more economical long-term option, they couldn’t afford downtime. QA1 handled an initial short-run production in-house, giving them product availability without delay.
Simultaneously, we worked with trusted overseas partners to ramp up manufacturing of a cost-effective version of the design. That dual-track approach gave our partner breathing room—and kept their production line moving.
Scoring Big with Smart Manufacturing
With everything in place, we transitioned manufacturing to a vetted vendor we continue to manage, keeping quality high and costs in check. The result? A better product, delivered on time, and within budget.
By combining hands-on engineering support with supply chain flexibility, QA1 helped a long-standing product evolve—without missing a beat.
Bring Us Your Challenge
Whether you’re building suspension systems for industrial vehicles or need a one-off solution for an existing design, QA1 brings engineering horsepower, testing capabilities, and manufacturing know-how to every project.
Let’s get your product across the goal line. Fill out the form below to connect with our team.
CASE STUDY: DEVELOPING COIL-OVER SHOCK ABSORBERS FOR FOOTBALL TACKLE SLEDS
