Development of a New Tandem Truck Suspension

This paper introduces a new tandem suspension suitable for trucks or highway tractors, with advantages in superior ride and lower weight. Multileaf steel springs are used in conjunction with unusually effective cams, producing a two-rate spring with the higher rate four times that of the lower rate. Newer materials such as nodular or ductile iron are used extensively. Rubber bearings are used to eliminate lubrication. Specific data are given with respect to selection of materials as well as stresses imposed in service.