REINFORCED FLUID SPRING

A flexible resilient tubular member of the type used in a fluid pressure system. The member has a hollow body of fabric-reinforced elastomeric material and includes a flexing portion on at least one of its peripheral ends and a non-flexing connecting portion extending between the flexing portion and the opposite peripheral end of the member. At least one-half of the length of the connecting portion includes at least one layer of deformation resisting reinforcement in the form of a plurality of metallic elements such as metal cords or rods coextensive and integrally formed therewith to provide the connecting portion with increased rigidity and a stable axial configuration during use. The invention is particularly useful in vehicle suspension systems for achieving improved alignment between the flexible member and a piston member which moves within the flexible member during the operation of the system.