With continuing emphasis toward light weight, reduced fifth wheel heights, and improved ride comfort, Freightliner has developed a tractor rear air suspension system with enhanced performance characteristics.
This suspension utilizes trailing arm leaf springs, in conjunction with rolling lobe type air springs. The package, as developed, provides improved ride comfort and cargo protection as a result of its low vertical rate, while maintaining roll stiffness comparable to competitive suspensions of this type. It is among the lightest of all competitive suspensions, designed to minimize maintenance, and offers the lower fifth wheel heights demanded in today's market. An exhaustive test program has proven the suspensions' durability.
This paper highlights the design and test methodology employed during development of the new Freightliner air suspension.