The Watson ”Stabilator” was described an automatic
friction brake which acted to limit an automobile’s suspension spring recoil. Early
shock absorbers, which were being developed, worked well on large bumps, but were
not very effective in controlling minor motions. Watson claimed that the “Stabilator” checked
the spring’s recoil in proportion to the recoil force and prevented the car’s
wheel from unloading and coming off the road which made for an uncomfortable
ride, tire slippage and increased tire and brake wear. .
The company was incorporated in Pennsylvania in 1927 and it was located in Philadelphia PA.