US20220017147A1 - Axle system having an axle lift kit and method of assembly - Google Patents
Axle system having an axle lift kit and method of assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20220017147A1 US20220017147A1 US16/928,565 US202016928565A US2022017147A1 US 20220017147 A1 US20220017147 A1 US 20220017147A1 US 202016928565 A US202016928565 A US 202016928565A US 2022017147 A1 US2022017147 A1 US 2022017147A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- lateral side
- bracket
- axle
- hanger bracket
- trailing arm
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G7/00—Pivoted suspension arms; Accessories thereof
- B60G7/001—Suspension arms, e.g. constructional features
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G9/00—Resilient suspensions of a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G11/00—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or kind of springs
- B60G11/26—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs
- B60G11/27—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G13/00—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or type of vibration dampers
- B60G13/001—Arrangements for attachment of dampers
- B60G13/005—Arrangements for attachment of dampers characterised by the mounting on the axle or suspension arm of the damper unit
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G2200/00—Indexing codes relating to suspension types
- B60G2200/20—Semi-rigid axle suspensions
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G2200/00—Indexing codes relating to suspension types
- B60G2200/30—Rigid axle suspensions
- B60G2200/31—Rigid axle suspensions with two trailing arms rigidly connected to the axle
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G2202/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of spring, damper or actuator
- B60G2202/10—Type of spring
- B60G2202/15—Fluid spring
- B60G2202/152—Pneumatic spring
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G2202/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of spring, damper or actuator
- B60G2202/20—Type of damper
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G2204/00—Indexing codes related to suspensions per se or to auxiliary parts
- B60G2204/10—Mounting of suspension elements
- B60G2204/14—Mounting of suspension arms
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G2204/00—Indexing codes related to suspensions per se or to auxiliary parts
- B60G2204/40—Auxiliary suspension parts; Adjustment of suspensions
- B60G2204/47—Means for retracting the suspension
- B60G2204/4702—Means for retracting the suspension pneumatically
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G2206/00—Indexing codes related to the manufacturing of suspensions: constructional features, the materials used, procedures or tools
- B60G2206/01—Constructional features of suspension elements, e.g. arms, dampers, springs
- B60G2206/80—Manufacturing procedures
- B60G2206/82—Joining
- B60G2206/8207—Joining by screwing
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G2300/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of vehicle
- B60G2300/02—Trucks; Load vehicles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D21/00—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted
- B62D21/11—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted with resilient means for suspension, e.g. of wheels or engine; sub-frames for mounting engine or suspensions
Definitions
- This document relates to an axle system having an axle lift kit and a method of assembly.
- an axle system may include an axle, a hanger bracket, a trailing arm, and an axle lift kit.
- the trailing arm may be fixedly coupled to the axle.
- the trailing arm may be rotatably coupled to the hanger bracket such that the trailing arm may be rotatable about a pivot axis with respect to the hanger bracket.
- the trailing arm may have a first lateral side and a second lateral side that may be disposed opposite the first lateral side.
- the axle lift kit may include a first bracket subassembly, a second bracket subassembly, and a lift air spring. The first bracket subassembly may be fastened to the hanger bracket.
- the second bracket subassembly may be fastened to the first and second lateral sides of the trailing arm.
- the lift air spring may extend between the first bracket subassembly and the second bracket subassembly and may be configured to rotate the trailing arm about the pivot axis.
- a method of assembling an axle system may include providing a trailing arm that may be rotatably mounted to a hanger bracket.
- An axle lift kit may be installed by fastening a first bracket subassembly of the axle lift kit to the hanger bracket and fastening a second bracket subassembly of the axle lift kit to the first and second lateral sides of the trailing arm.
- the first lateral side may be disposed opposite the second lateral side and the first and second lateral sides may partially extend into the hanger bracket.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of an axle system.
- FIG. 2 is a top view of the axle system with wheel end assemblies and air springs omitted for clarity.
- FIG. 3 is a side view of a portion of the axle system in a first position with the wheel end assemblies and air springs omitted for clarity.
- FIG. 4 is a side view of a portion of the axle system in a second position with the wheel end assemblies and air springs omitted for clarity.
- FIG. 5 is an exploded view showing a first bracket subassembly of an axle lift kit that may be mounted to a hanger bracket of the axle system.
- FIG. 6 is an exploded view showing a second bracket subassembly of the axle lift kit that may be mounted to a trailing arm of the axle system.
- FIG. 7 is an assembled perspective view showing the second bracket subassembly.
- the axle system 10 may be provided with a vehicle, such as motor vehicle or a trailer that may be provided with a motor vehicle.
- the axle system 10 may include an axle 20 that may support a wheel end assembly 22 .
- the axle system 10 may include a hanger bracket 24 , a trailing arm 26 , an air spring 28 , a shock absorber 30 , and an axle lift kit 32 . These components may be provided in pairs and may be grouped together and positioned near a corresponding wheel end assembly 22 .
- a control system 34 which is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , may control operation of the axle system 10 .
- the axle 20 may extend along an axle axis 40 .
- the axle 20 may have a generally tubular or cylindrical configuration and may provide a structure that may support and facilitate mounting of other components of the axle system 10 .
- a wheel end assembly 22 may be mountable at an end of the axle. In the configuration shown, two wheel end assemblies 22 are provided and are mounted at opposing ends of the axle 20 .
- a wheel end assembly 22 may include a hub 50 and a brake subsystem 52 .
- the hub 50 may be rotatably disposed on the axle 20 .
- the hub 50 may be rotatable about the axle axis 40 and may facilitate mounting of a wheel upon which a tire may be mounted.
- the hub 50 may include a plurality of mounting studs that may extend through a wheel in a manner known by those skilled in the art.
- the brake subsystem 52 may be configured to brake or inhibit rotation of an associated hub 50 .
- the brake subsystem 52 may be mounted to the axle 20 proximate an end of the axle 20 .
- the brake subsystem 52 may be configured as a friction brake, such as a drum brake or a disc brake.
- the brake subsystem 52 is configured as a drum brake and may include a pair of brake pads that may be received inside a brake drum 54 .
- a brake actuator 56 may actuate the brake pads into engagement with the brake drum 54 to provide a brake torque that may slow or stop rotation of an associated hub 50 in a manner known by those skilled in the art.
- the hanger bracket 24 may facilitate mounting of the axle system 10 to a frame or chassis 60 of the vehicle, which is best shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 .
- the hanger bracket 24 may be fixedly positioned with respect to the chassis 60 .
- the hanger bracket 24 may be mounted to the chassis 60 along a top side.
- the hanger bracket 24 may have a generally hollow box-like configuration and may receive an end of the trailing arm 26 .
- a pivot pin 70 may rotatably couple the trailing arm 26 to the hanger bracket 24 .
- the pivot pin 70 may extend along a pivot axis 72 and may extend through the hanger bracket 24 and the trailing arm 26 to rotatably couple the trailing arm 26 to the hanger bracket 24 such that the trailing arm 26 may be rotatable about the pivot axis 72 with respect to the hanger bracket 24 .
- the pivot axis 72 may extend substantially parallel to the axle axis 40 .
- the hanger bracket 24 may include a first hanger bracket lateral side 80 , a second hanger bracket lateral side 82 , and a connecting hanger side 84 .
- the first hanger bracket lateral side 80 may face outboard or away from a center plane 86 , which is best shown in FIG. 2 .
- the center plane 86 may bisect the axle 20 or may be equidistantly disposed between the hanger brackets 24 .
- the center plane 86 may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the axle axis 40 .
- the first hanger bracket lateral side 80 may be disposed substantially parallel to the center plane 86 and may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis 72 .
- the second hanger bracket lateral side 82 may be disposed opposite the first hanger bracket lateral side 80 . As such, the second hanger bracket lateral side 82 may face inboard or toward the center plane 86 . In at least one embodiment, the second hanger bracket lateral side 82 may be disposed substantially parallel to the first hanger bracket lateral side 80 .
- the connecting hanger side 84 may extend from the first hanger bracket lateral side 80 to the second hanger bracket lateral side 82 .
- the connecting hanger side 84 may face away from the axle 20 .
- the connecting hanger side 84 may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the first hanger bracket lateral side 80 , the second hanger bracket lateral side 82 , or both in one or more configurations.
- the trailing arm 26 may extend between the axle 20 and the hanger bracket 24 .
- the trailing arms 26 may have the same configuration or a similar configuration.
- the trailing arms 26 may have mirror symmetry with respect to the center plane 86 .
- the trailing arm 26 may be fixedly coupled to the axle 20 in any suitable manner.
- the trailing arm 26 may be secured to an axle wrap 90 that may be fixedly disposed on the axle 20 and that may extend at least partially around an exterior surface of the axle 20 .
- the trailing arm 26 may extend away from the axle 20 toward the hanger bracket 24 .
- the trailing arm 26 may have a generally hollow construction.
- the trailing arm 26 may include a first lateral side 100 , a second lateral side 102 , a top side 104 , and a bottom side 106 .
- the first lateral side 100 may face outboard or away from the center plane 86 .
- the first lateral side 100 may extend into and may be partially received inside the hanger bracket 24 .
- the first lateral side 100 or a portion thereof may face toward the first hanger bracket lateral side 80 .
- the first lateral side 100 may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis 72 .
- the second lateral side 102 may be disposed opposite the first lateral side 100 .
- the second lateral side 102 may extend into and may be partially received inside the hanger bracket 24 .
- the second lateral side 102 or a portion thereof may face toward the second hanger bracket lateral side 82 .
- a portion of the second lateral side 102 may be disposed in a nonparallel relationship with the first lateral side 100 .
- the second lateral side 102 may extend further away from the first lateral side 100 as the trailing arm 26 extends toward the axle 20 .
- the top side 104 may face toward the chassis 60 .
- the top side 104 may extend from the first lateral side 100 to the second lateral side 102 .
- the bottom side 106 may be disposed opposite the top side 104 . As such, the bottom side 106 may face away from the hanger bracket 24 . The bottom side 106 may extend from the first lateral side 100 to the second lateral side 102 .
- the air spring 28 may be mounted to the trailing arm 26 .
- the air spring 28 may be disposed proximate an end of the trailing arm 26 that may be disposed opposite the hanger bracket 24 .
- the air spring 28 may extend from the trailing arm 26 to the chassis 60 and may be configured to dampen vibrations associated with vehicle travel, provide a desired level of ride quality, control vehicle ride height, or combinations thereof.
- the shock absorber 30 may be provided to dampen impulses and to dissipate kinetic energy transmitted to the axle system 10 .
- the shock absorber 30 may be pivotally mounted to the hanger bracket 24 at a first end and may be pivotally mounted to the trailing arm 26 at a second end. More specifically and as is best shown with reference to FIGS. 2-4 , the shock absorber 30 may be pivotally mounted to the hanger bracket 24 along an upper shock absorber pivot axis 110 and may be pivotally mounted to the trailing arm 26 along a lower shock absorber pivot axis 112 .
- the upper shock absorber pivot axis 110 and the lower shock absorber pivot axis 112 may be disposed substantially parallel to each other and substantially parallel to the pivot axis 72 .
- the axle lift kit 32 may facilitate lifting of the axle 20 .
- the axle lift kit 32 may selectively raise and hold the axle 20 in an elevated position or lifted position such that its wheel end assemblies 22 and associated tires are raised or lifted from a support surface, such as a road or the ground, toward the chassis 60 and do not engage the support surface to support the weight of the vehicle.
- the tires may be disposed on the support surface when they are not held in the elevated position or lifted position by the axle lift kit 32 , and thus may support the vehicle and facilitate movement of the vehicle.
- the axle lift kit 32 may include a first bracket subassembly 130 a second bracket subassembly 132 , and a lift air spring 134 .
- the first bracket subassembly 130 may be fastened to the hanger bracket 24 . More specifically, the first bracket subassembly 130 may engage or contact the first hanger bracket lateral side 80 and the second hanger bracket lateral side 82 of the hanger bracket 24 and may be fastened to the first hanger bracket lateral side 80 and the second hanger bracket lateral side 82 . The first bracket subassembly 130 may not be fastened to the connecting hanger side 84 . The first bracket subassembly 130 may be completely disposed outside of the hanger bracket 24 . In at least one configuration, the first bracket subassembly 130 may include a first side member 140 , a second side member 142 , and a cross member 144 .
- the first side member 140 may engage or contact the first hanger bracket lateral side 80 of the hanger bracket 24 .
- the first side member 140 may be spaced apart from the second side member 142 .
- the first side member 140 may have one or more holes 150 that may receive a fastener 152 , such as a bolt, that may secure the first side member 140 to the first hanger bracket lateral side 80 of the hanger bracket 24 .
- the second side member 142 may engage or contact the second hanger bracket lateral side 82 of the hanger bracket 24 .
- the second side member 142 may have a hole 150 ′ that may receive a fastener 152 , such as a bolt, that may secure the second side member 142 to the second hanger bracket lateral side 82 of the hanger bracket 24 .
- a fastener 152 such as a bolt
- Different fasteners 152 may be received in each of the holes 150 , 150 ′.
- the fasteners 152 may extend substantially parallel to the pivot axis 72 .
- the cross member 144 may extend from the first side member 140 to the second side member 142 .
- the cross member 144 may extend underneath the hanger bracket 24 and may support the lift air spring 134 .
- the second bracket subassembly 132 may be fastened to the trailing arm 26 . More specifically, the second bracket subassembly 132 may engage or contact the first lateral side 100 and the second lateral side 102 of the trailing arm 26 and may be mounted to or fastened to the first lateral side 100 and the second lateral side 102 . The second bracket subassembly 132 may be spaced apart from and may not be attached to the bottom side 106 of the trailing arm 26 . The second bracket subassembly 132 may be completely disposed outside of the hanger bracket 24 as is best shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 . In at least one configuration, the second bracket subassembly 132 may include a first side member 160 , a second side member 162 , and a cross member 164 .
- the first side member 160 may engage or contact the first lateral side 100 of the trailing arm 26 .
- the first side member 160 may be spaced apart from the second side member 162 .
- the first side member 160 may have an upper flange 170 and a lower flange 172 .
- the upper flange 170 may engage or contact the first lateral side 100 of the trailing aim 26 .
- the upper flange 170 may include one or more holes 180 that may receive a fastener 182 , such as a bolt, that may secure the first side member 160 to the first lateral side 100 of the trailing arm 26 .
- the lower flange 172 may engage or contact the cross member 164 .
- the lower flange 172 may include one or more holes 190 that may receive a fastener 192 , such as a bolt, that may secure the first side member 160 to the cross member 164 .
- the second side member 162 may engage or contact the second lateral side 102 of the trailing arm 26 .
- the second side member 162 may have an upper flange 170 ′ and a lower flange 172 ′.
- the upper flange 170 ′ may engage or contact the second lateral side 102 of the trailing arm 26 .
- the upper flange 170 ′ may include one or more holes 180 ′ that may receive a fastener 182 , such as a bolt that may secure the second side member 162 to the second lateral side 102 of the trailing arm 26 .
- a fastener 182 may extend through the holes 180 , 180 ′ of the upper flanges 170 , 170 ′ and through corresponding holes in the first and second lateral sides 100 , 102 of the trailing arm 26 .
- the fastener 182 may couple the first side member 160 and the second side member 162 to the trailing arm 26 .
- a retainer 194 such as a nut, may be coupled to the fastener 182 to inhibit axial movement and removal of the fastener 182 .
- the fasteners 182 may be located closer to the axle 20 and the axle axis 40 than the upper shock absorber pivot axis 110 is located to the axle 20 and the axle axis 40 .
- the lower flange 172 ′ may engage or contact the cross member 164 .
- the lower flange 172 ′ may include one or more holes 190 that may receive a fastener 192 , such as a bolt, that may secure the first side member 160 to the cross member 164 .
- a fastener 192 may couple the first side member 160 to the cross member 164 and a second fastener 192 may couple the second side member 162 to the cross member 164 .
- the brake actuator 56 may be received between the first side member 160 and the second side member 162 .
- the cross member 164 may extend from the first side member 160 to the second side member 162 .
- the cross member 164 may be spaced apart from the trailing arm 26 and may support the lift air spring 134 .
- the lift air spring 134 may extend between the first bracket subassembly 130 and the second bracket subassembly 132 .
- the lift air spring 134 may be configured to control rotation of the trailing arm 26 about the pivot axis 72 and thereby move the axle between a lowered position, which is shown in FIG. 3 , and a lifted position, which is shown in FIG. 4 .
- the lift air spring 134 may be mounted to the cross member 144 of the first bracket subassembly 130 and to the cross member 164 of the second bracket subassembly 132 .
- the lift air spring 134 may be fluidly connected to a pressurized gas source 200 , such as a pump or tank that may provide a pressurized gas or pressurized gas mixture, such as air, to the lift air spring 134 .
- the control system 34 may monitor and control operation of components and systems of the vehicle, such as the axle lift kit 32 .
- the control system 34 may be configured to control the operation of the valves to control the flow of pressurized gas to the lift air spring 134 and to control venting of pressurized gas from the lift air spring 134 .
- the control system 34 may provide pressurized gas to inflate the lift air spring 134 to move the axle 20 from a first position or a lowered position as shown in FIG. 3 to a second position or a lifted position as shown in FIG. 4 .
- Inflating the lift air spring 134 may push the second bracket subassembly 132 away from the first bracket subassembly 130 , thereby rotating the trailing arm 26 about the pivot axis 72 in a counterclockwise direction from the perspective shown. Deflating the lift air spring 134 may allow the trailing arm 26 to rotate about the pivot axis 72 in a clockwise direction from the perspective shown in FIG. 4 and allow the second bracket subassembly 132 to move toward the first bracket subassembly 130 and toward the first position.
- Inflation and deflation of the lift air spring 134 may be responsive to one or more signals that may be provided to the control system 34 .
- the control system 34 may inflate or deflate the lift air spring 134 based on a manual command or operator command that may be provided by an input device, such as a button, switch, verbal command or the like.
- the control system 34 may inflate or deflate the lift air spring 134 automatically.
- Automatic inflation and deflation may be based on various signals or data, such as signals or date indicative of vehicle load, vehicle speed, or combinations thereof.
- the axle lift kit 32 may be assembled to the hanger bracket 24 and the trailing arm 26 during initial fabrication of the axle system 10 or may be subsequently installed, such as after assembly of the trailer or vehicle.
- the axle lift kit 32 may be purchased as an aftermarket option and may be used to retrofit an axle system 10 to provide lift capability.
- the axle lift kit 32 may be installed by fastening the first bracket subassembly 130 to the hanger bracket 24 and fastening the second bracket subassembly 132 to the trailing arm 26 as previously described.
- the lift air spring 134 may be mounted to the first bracket subassembly 130 and the second bracket subassembly 132 after the first and second bracket subassemblies 130 , 132 are fastened to the hanger bracket 24 and the trailing arm 26 , respectively.
- the axle lift kit 32 may be mounted to the hanger bracket 24 and the trailing arm 26 without welding. Eliminating welding may provide various benefits. First, paint must be removed from the hanger bracket 24 before the first bracket subassembly 130 can be welded to the hanger bracket 24 . Similarly, paint must be removed from the trailing arm 26 before the second bracket subassembly 132 can be welded to the trailing arm 26 . Thus, paint removal is not required when welding is eliminated. Second, paint must be reapplied after welding to avoid corrosion. Thus, repainting may be omitted when welding is eliminated. Third, temperature-sensitive components, such as components made of plastic or rubber, may need to be removed prior to welding to avoid damage when a weld is applied.
- Such component removal and subsequently reassembly may be avoided when welding is eliminated.
- eliminating welding allows components of the axle lift kit such as the first bracket subassembly 130 , the second bracket subassembly 132 , or both to be fully galvanized to help prevent corrosion as providing suitable welds may incompatible with galvanized components.
- welding galvanized steel may result in compromised welds that may have undesirable inclusions or porosity due to the zinc coating found on galvanized steel.
- welding galvanized steel may result in undesirable fumes.
- using fasteners such as bolts to attach the axle lift kit 32 may allow the axle lift kit 32 to be installed more rapidly and more cost-effectively than installation by welding, which requires additional equipment and expertise.
Abstract
An axle system and a method of assembly. The axle system may include an axle lift kit. The axle lift kit may have a first bracket subassembly that may be fastened to the hanger bracket and a second bracket subassembly that may be fastened to first and second lateral sides of the trailing arm.
Description
- This document relates to an axle system having an axle lift kit and a method of assembly.
- An axle lift system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,422,014.
- In at least one embodiment, an axle system is provided. The axle system may include an axle, a hanger bracket, a trailing arm, and an axle lift kit. The trailing arm may be fixedly coupled to the axle. The trailing arm may be rotatably coupled to the hanger bracket such that the trailing arm may be rotatable about a pivot axis with respect to the hanger bracket. The trailing arm may have a first lateral side and a second lateral side that may be disposed opposite the first lateral side. The axle lift kit may include a first bracket subassembly, a second bracket subassembly, and a lift air spring. The first bracket subassembly may be fastened to the hanger bracket. The second bracket subassembly may be fastened to the first and second lateral sides of the trailing arm. The lift air spring may extend between the first bracket subassembly and the second bracket subassembly and may be configured to rotate the trailing arm about the pivot axis.
- In at least one embodiment, a method of assembling an axle system is provided. The method may include providing a trailing arm that may be rotatably mounted to a hanger bracket. An axle lift kit may be installed by fastening a first bracket subassembly of the axle lift kit to the hanger bracket and fastening a second bracket subassembly of the axle lift kit to the first and second lateral sides of the trailing arm. The first lateral side may be disposed opposite the second lateral side and the first and second lateral sides may partially extend into the hanger bracket.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of an axle system. -
FIG. 2 is a top view of the axle system with wheel end assemblies and air springs omitted for clarity. -
FIG. 3 is a side view of a portion of the axle system in a first position with the wheel end assemblies and air springs omitted for clarity. -
FIG. 4 is a side view of a portion of the axle system in a second position with the wheel end assemblies and air springs omitted for clarity. -
FIG. 5 is an exploded view showing a first bracket subassembly of an axle lift kit that may be mounted to a hanger bracket of the axle system. -
FIG. 6 is an exploded view showing a second bracket subassembly of the axle lift kit that may be mounted to a trailing arm of the axle system. -
FIG. 7 is an assembled perspective view showing the second bracket subassembly. - As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , an example of anaxle system 10 is shown. Theaxle system 10 may be provided with a vehicle, such as motor vehicle or a trailer that may be provided with a motor vehicle. Theaxle system 10 may include anaxle 20 that may support awheel end assembly 22. Theaxle system 10 may include ahanger bracket 24, atrailing arm 26, anair spring 28, a shock absorber 30, and anaxle lift kit 32. These components may be provided in pairs and may be grouped together and positioned near a correspondingwheel end assembly 22. Acontrol system 34, which is shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , may control operation of theaxle system 10. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , theaxle 20 may extend along anaxle axis 40. Theaxle 20 may have a generally tubular or cylindrical configuration and may provide a structure that may support and facilitate mounting of other components of theaxle system 10. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , awheel end assembly 22 may be mountable at an end of the axle. In the configuration shown, twowheel end assemblies 22 are provided and are mounted at opposing ends of theaxle 20. Awheel end assembly 22 may include ahub 50 and abrake subsystem 52. - The
hub 50 may be rotatably disposed on theaxle 20. Thehub 50 may be rotatable about theaxle axis 40 and may facilitate mounting of a wheel upon which a tire may be mounted. For example, thehub 50 may include a plurality of mounting studs that may extend through a wheel in a manner known by those skilled in the art. - The
brake subsystem 52 may be configured to brake or inhibit rotation of an associatedhub 50. Thebrake subsystem 52 may be mounted to theaxle 20 proximate an end of theaxle 20. Thebrake subsystem 52 may be configured as a friction brake, such as a drum brake or a disc brake. In the configuration shown inFIG. 1 , thebrake subsystem 52 is configured as a drum brake and may include a pair of brake pads that may be received inside abrake drum 54. Abrake actuator 56 may actuate the brake pads into engagement with thebrake drum 54 to provide a brake torque that may slow or stop rotation of an associatedhub 50 in a manner known by those skilled in the art. - The
hanger bracket 24 may facilitate mounting of theaxle system 10 to a frame orchassis 60 of the vehicle, which is best shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 . Thehanger bracket 24 may be fixedly positioned with respect to thechassis 60. For instance, thehanger bracket 24 may be mounted to thechassis 60 along a top side. Thehanger bracket 24 may have a generally hollow box-like configuration and may receive an end of thetrailing arm 26. Apivot pin 70 may rotatably couple thetrailing arm 26 to thehanger bracket 24. For example, thepivot pin 70 may extend along apivot axis 72 and may extend through thehanger bracket 24 and thetrailing arm 26 to rotatably couple thetrailing arm 26 to thehanger bracket 24 such that thetrailing arm 26 may be rotatable about thepivot axis 72 with respect to thehanger bracket 24. As is best shown inFIG. 2 , thepivot axis 72 may extend substantially parallel to theaxle axis 40. In at least one configuration and as is best shown with reference toFIGS. 2-5 , thehanger bracket 24 may include a first hanger bracketlateral side 80, a second hanger bracketlateral side 82, and a connectinghanger side 84. - The first hanger bracket
lateral side 80 may face outboard or away from acenter plane 86, which is best shown inFIG. 2 . Thecenter plane 86 may bisect theaxle 20 or may be equidistantly disposed between thehanger brackets 24. Thecenter plane 86 may be disposed substantially perpendicular to theaxle axis 40. In at least one configuration, the first hanger bracketlateral side 80 may be disposed substantially parallel to thecenter plane 86 and may be disposed substantially perpendicular to thepivot axis 72. - The second hanger bracket
lateral side 82 may be disposed opposite the first hanger bracketlateral side 80. As such, the second hanger bracketlateral side 82 may face inboard or toward thecenter plane 86. In at least one embodiment, the second hangerbracket lateral side 82 may be disposed substantially parallel to the first hangerbracket lateral side 80. - The connecting
hanger side 84 may extend from the first hangerbracket lateral side 80 to the second hangerbracket lateral side 82. The connectinghanger side 84 may face away from theaxle 20. The connectinghanger side 84 may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the first hangerbracket lateral side 80, the second hangerbracket lateral side 82, or both in one or more configurations. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , the trailingarm 26 may extend between theaxle 20 and thehanger bracket 24. InFIG. 1 , two trailing aims 26 are illustrated that are spaced apart from each other. The trailingarms 26 may have the same configuration or a similar configuration. For instance, the trailingarms 26 may have mirror symmetry with respect to thecenter plane 86. The trailingarm 26 may be fixedly coupled to theaxle 20 in any suitable manner. For example, the trailingarm 26 may be secured to anaxle wrap 90 that may be fixedly disposed on theaxle 20 and that may extend at least partially around an exterior surface of theaxle 20. The trailingarm 26 may extend away from theaxle 20 toward thehanger bracket 24. The trailingarm 26 may have a generally hollow construction. In at least one configuration and as is best shown with reference toFIGS. 2-4 and 6 , the trailingarm 26 may include a firstlateral side 100, a secondlateral side 102, atop side 104, and abottom side 106. - The first
lateral side 100 may face outboard or away from thecenter plane 86. The firstlateral side 100 may extend into and may be partially received inside thehanger bracket 24. As such, the firstlateral side 100 or a portion thereof may face toward the first hangerbracket lateral side 80. In at least one configuration, the firstlateral side 100 may be disposed substantially perpendicular to thepivot axis 72. - The second
lateral side 102 may be disposed opposite the firstlateral side 100. The secondlateral side 102 may extend into and may be partially received inside thehanger bracket 24. As such, the secondlateral side 102 or a portion thereof may face toward the second hangerbracket lateral side 82. In at least one configuration, a portion of the secondlateral side 102 may be disposed in a nonparallel relationship with the firstlateral side 100. For instance, the secondlateral side 102 may extend further away from the firstlateral side 100 as the trailingarm 26 extends toward theaxle 20. - The
top side 104 may face toward thechassis 60. In addition, thetop side 104 may extend from the firstlateral side 100 to the secondlateral side 102. - The
bottom side 106 may be disposed opposite thetop side 104. As such, thebottom side 106 may face away from thehanger bracket 24. Thebottom side 106 may extend from the firstlateral side 100 to the secondlateral side 102. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , theair spring 28 may be mounted to the trailingarm 26. For example, theair spring 28 may be disposed proximate an end of the trailingarm 26 that may be disposed opposite thehanger bracket 24. Theair spring 28 may extend from the trailingarm 26 to thechassis 60 and may be configured to dampen vibrations associated with vehicle travel, provide a desired level of ride quality, control vehicle ride height, or combinations thereof. - The
shock absorber 30 may be provided to dampen impulses and to dissipate kinetic energy transmitted to theaxle system 10. Theshock absorber 30 may be pivotally mounted to thehanger bracket 24 at a first end and may be pivotally mounted to the trailingarm 26 at a second end. More specifically and as is best shown with reference toFIGS. 2-4 , theshock absorber 30 may be pivotally mounted to thehanger bracket 24 along an upper shockabsorber pivot axis 110 and may be pivotally mounted to the trailingarm 26 along a lower shockabsorber pivot axis 112. The upper shockabsorber pivot axis 110 and the lower shockabsorber pivot axis 112 may be disposed substantially parallel to each other and substantially parallel to thepivot axis 72. - Referring to
FIGS. 1-4 , theaxle lift kit 32 may facilitate lifting of theaxle 20. For instance, theaxle lift kit 32 may selectively raise and hold theaxle 20 in an elevated position or lifted position such that itswheel end assemblies 22 and associated tires are raised or lifted from a support surface, such as a road or the ground, toward thechassis 60 and do not engage the support surface to support the weight of the vehicle. The tires may be disposed on the support surface when they are not held in the elevated position or lifted position by theaxle lift kit 32, and thus may support the vehicle and facilitate movement of the vehicle. In at least one configuration and as is best shown with reference toFIGS. 2-5 , theaxle lift kit 32 may include a first bracket subassembly 130 asecond bracket subassembly 132, and alift air spring 134. - The
first bracket subassembly 130, which is best shown individually inFIG. 5 , may be fastened to thehanger bracket 24. More specifically, thefirst bracket subassembly 130 may engage or contact the first hangerbracket lateral side 80 and the second hangerbracket lateral side 82 of thehanger bracket 24 and may be fastened to the first hangerbracket lateral side 80 and the second hangerbracket lateral side 82. Thefirst bracket subassembly 130 may not be fastened to the connectinghanger side 84. Thefirst bracket subassembly 130 may be completely disposed outside of thehanger bracket 24. In at least one configuration, thefirst bracket subassembly 130 may include afirst side member 140, asecond side member 142, and across member 144. - The
first side member 140 may engage or contact the first hangerbracket lateral side 80 of thehanger bracket 24. Thefirst side member 140 may be spaced apart from thesecond side member 142. Thefirst side member 140 may have one ormore holes 150 that may receive afastener 152, such as a bolt, that may secure thefirst side member 140 to the first hangerbracket lateral side 80 of thehanger bracket 24. - The
second side member 142 may engage or contact the second hangerbracket lateral side 82 of thehanger bracket 24. In at least one configuration, thesecond side member 142 may have ahole 150′ that may receive afastener 152, such as a bolt, that may secure thesecond side member 142 to the second hangerbracket lateral side 82 of thehanger bracket 24.Different fasteners 152 may be received in each of theholes fasteners 152 may extend substantially parallel to thepivot axis 72. - The
cross member 144 may extend from thefirst side member 140 to thesecond side member 142. Thecross member 144 may extend underneath thehanger bracket 24 and may support thelift air spring 134. - The
second bracket subassembly 132, which is best shown individually inFIGS. 6 and 7 , may be fastened to the trailingarm 26. More specifically, thesecond bracket subassembly 132 may engage or contact the firstlateral side 100 and the secondlateral side 102 of the trailingarm 26 and may be mounted to or fastened to the firstlateral side 100 and the secondlateral side 102. Thesecond bracket subassembly 132 may be spaced apart from and may not be attached to thebottom side 106 of the trailingarm 26. Thesecond bracket subassembly 132 may be completely disposed outside of thehanger bracket 24 as is best shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 . In at least one configuration, thesecond bracket subassembly 132 may include afirst side member 160, asecond side member 162, and across member 164. - The
first side member 160 may engage or contact the firstlateral side 100 of the trailingarm 26. Thefirst side member 160 may be spaced apart from thesecond side member 162. In at least one configuration, thefirst side member 160 may have anupper flange 170 and alower flange 172. - The
upper flange 170 may engage or contact the firstlateral side 100 of the trailingaim 26. Theupper flange 170 may include one ormore holes 180 that may receive afastener 182, such as a bolt, that may secure thefirst side member 160 to the firstlateral side 100 of the trailingarm 26. - The
lower flange 172 may engage or contact thecross member 164. Thelower flange 172 may include one ormore holes 190 that may receive afastener 192, such as a bolt, that may secure thefirst side member 160 to thecross member 164. - The
second side member 162 may engage or contact the secondlateral side 102 of the trailingarm 26. In at least one configuration, thesecond side member 162 may have anupper flange 170′ and alower flange 172′. - The
upper flange 170′ may engage or contact the secondlateral side 102 of the trailingarm 26. Theupper flange 170′ may include one ormore holes 180′ that may receive afastener 182, such as a bolt that may secure thesecond side member 162 to the secondlateral side 102 of the trailingarm 26. For instance, afastener 182 may extend through theholes upper flanges lateral sides arm 26. As such, thefastener 182 may couple thefirst side member 160 and thesecond side member 162 to the trailingarm 26. Aretainer 194, such as a nut, may be coupled to thefastener 182 to inhibit axial movement and removal of thefastener 182. As is best shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , thefasteners 182 may be located closer to theaxle 20 and theaxle axis 40 than the upper shockabsorber pivot axis 110 is located to theaxle 20 and theaxle axis 40. - The
lower flange 172′ may engage or contact thecross member 164. Thelower flange 172′ may include one ormore holes 190 that may receive afastener 192, such as a bolt, that may secure thefirst side member 160 to thecross member 164. For instance, afirst fastener 192 may couple thefirst side member 160 to thecross member 164 and asecond fastener 192 may couple thesecond side member 162 to thecross member 164. As is best shown with reference toFIGS. 2 and 3 , thebrake actuator 56 may be received between thefirst side member 160 and thesecond side member 162. - The
cross member 164 may extend from thefirst side member 160 to thesecond side member 162. Thecross member 164 may be spaced apart from the trailingarm 26 and may support thelift air spring 134. - Referring to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , thelift air spring 134 may extend between thefirst bracket subassembly 130 and thesecond bracket subassembly 132. Thelift air spring 134 may be configured to control rotation of the trailingarm 26 about thepivot axis 72 and thereby move the axle between a lowered position, which is shown inFIG. 3 , and a lifted position, which is shown inFIG. 4 . Thelift air spring 134 may be mounted to thecross member 144 of thefirst bracket subassembly 130 and to thecross member 164 of thesecond bracket subassembly 132. Thelift air spring 134 may be fluidly connected to apressurized gas source 200, such as a pump or tank that may provide a pressurized gas or pressurized gas mixture, such as air, to thelift air spring 134. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , thecontrol system 34 may monitor and control operation of components and systems of the vehicle, such as theaxle lift kit 32. Thecontrol system 34 may be configured to control the operation of the valves to control the flow of pressurized gas to thelift air spring 134 and to control venting of pressurized gas from thelift air spring 134. For example, thecontrol system 34 may provide pressurized gas to inflate thelift air spring 134 to move theaxle 20 from a first position or a lowered position as shown inFIG. 3 to a second position or a lifted position as shown inFIG. 4 . Inflating thelift air spring 134 may push thesecond bracket subassembly 132 away from thefirst bracket subassembly 130, thereby rotating the trailingarm 26 about thepivot axis 72 in a counterclockwise direction from the perspective shown. Deflating thelift air spring 134 may allow the trailingarm 26 to rotate about thepivot axis 72 in a clockwise direction from the perspective shown inFIG. 4 and allow thesecond bracket subassembly 132 to move toward thefirst bracket subassembly 130 and toward the first position. - Inflation and deflation of the
lift air spring 134 may be responsive to one or more signals that may be provided to thecontrol system 34. For instance, thecontrol system 34 may inflate or deflate thelift air spring 134 based on a manual command or operator command that may be provided by an input device, such as a button, switch, verbal command or the like. Thecontrol system 34 may inflate or deflate thelift air spring 134 automatically. Automatic inflation and deflation may be based on various signals or data, such as signals or date indicative of vehicle load, vehicle speed, or combinations thereof. - The
axle lift kit 32 may be assembled to thehanger bracket 24 and the trailingarm 26 during initial fabrication of theaxle system 10 or may be subsequently installed, such as after assembly of the trailer or vehicle. For instance, theaxle lift kit 32 may be purchased as an aftermarket option and may be used to retrofit anaxle system 10 to provide lift capability. Theaxle lift kit 32 may be installed by fastening thefirst bracket subassembly 130 to thehanger bracket 24 and fastening thesecond bracket subassembly 132 to the trailingarm 26 as previously described. Thelift air spring 134 may be mounted to thefirst bracket subassembly 130 and thesecond bracket subassembly 132 after the first andsecond bracket subassemblies hanger bracket 24 and the trailingarm 26, respectively. - The
axle lift kit 32 may be mounted to thehanger bracket 24 and the trailingarm 26 without welding. Eliminating welding may provide various benefits. First, paint must be removed from thehanger bracket 24 before thefirst bracket subassembly 130 can be welded to thehanger bracket 24. Similarly, paint must be removed from the trailingarm 26 before thesecond bracket subassembly 132 can be welded to the trailingarm 26. Thus, paint removal is not required when welding is eliminated. Second, paint must be reapplied after welding to avoid corrosion. Thus, repainting may be omitted when welding is eliminated. Third, temperature-sensitive components, such as components made of plastic or rubber, may need to be removed prior to welding to avoid damage when a weld is applied. Such component removal and subsequently reassembly may be avoided when welding is eliminated. Fourth, eliminating welding allows components of the axle lift kit such as thefirst bracket subassembly 130, thesecond bracket subassembly 132, or both to be fully galvanized to help prevent corrosion as providing suitable welds may incompatible with galvanized components. For instance, welding galvanized steel may result in compromised welds that may have undesirable inclusions or porosity due to the zinc coating found on galvanized steel. Moreover, welding galvanized steel may result in undesirable fumes. Fifth, using fasteners such as bolts to attach theaxle lift kit 32 may allow theaxle lift kit 32 to be installed more rapidly and more cost-effectively than installation by welding, which requires additional equipment and expertise. - While exemplary embodiments are described above, it is not intended that these embodiments describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Additionally, the features of various implementing embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the invention.
Claims (20)
1. An axle system comprising:
an axle;
a hanger bracket;
a trailing arm that is fixedly coupled to the axle and rotatably coupled to the hanger bracket such that the trailing arm is rotatable about a pivot axis with respect to the hanger bracket, wherein the trailing arm has a bottom side that faces away from the hanger bracket, a first lateral side, and a second lateral side that is disposed opposite the first lateral side; and
an axle lift kit that includes:
a first bracket subassembly that is fastened to the hanger bracket;
a second bracket subassembly that is fastened to the first lateral side and the second lateral side of the trailing arm, wherein the second bracket subassembly is spaced apart from and not attached to the bottom side; and
a lift air spring that extends between the first bracket subassembly and the second bracket subassembly and is configured to rotate the trailing arm about the pivot axis.
2. The axle system of claim 1 wherein a bolt extends through the first lateral side and the second lateral side and couples the second bracket subassembly to the trailing arm.
3. The axle system of claim 1 wherein the first bracket subassembly includes a first, side member that engages a first hanger bracket lateral side of the hanger bracket and a second side member that engages a second hanger bracket lateral side of the hanger bracket.
4. The axle system of claim 1 wherein the bottom side extends from the first lateral side to the second lateral side.
5. The axle system of claim 1 wherein the first lateral side and the second lateral side are partially received inside the hanger bracket, the first lateral side is disposed substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis, and the second lateral side is in a nonparallel relationship with the first lateral side.
6. The axle system of claim 1 wherein the second bracket subassembly is completely disposed outside of the hanger bracket.
7. The axle system of claim 1 wherein the second bracket subassembly includes a first side member that engages the first lateral side, a second side member that engages the second lateral side, and a cross member that extends from the first side member to the second side member, wherein the lift air spring is mounted to the cross member.
8. The axle system of claim 7 wherein the first side member is spaced apart from the second side member.
9. The axle system of claim 7 wherein the cross member is spaced apart from the trailing arm.
10. The axle system of claim 7 wherein a brake actuator is received between the first side member and the second side member.
11. The axle system of claim 7 wherein the first side member and the second side member have upper flanges that contact the first and second lateral sides, respectively, and a bolt extends through the upper flanges and the first and second lateral sides to couple the first side member and the second side member to the trailing arm.
12. The axle system of claim 11 wherein the first side member and the second side member have lower flanges that contact the cross member and the lower flanges of the first and second side members are coupled to the cross member with first and second bolts, respectively.
13. The axle system of claim 11 further comprising a shock absorber that is pivotally mounted to the hanger bracket along an upper shock absorber pivot axis and is pivotally mounted to the trailing arm along a lower shock absorber pivot axis, wherein the bolt is located closer to the axle than the upper shock absorber pivot axis is located to the axle.
14. An axle system comprising:
an axle;
a hanger bracket that includes a first hanger bracket lateral side and a second hanger bracket lateral side that is disposed opposite the first hanger bracket lateral side;
a trailing arm that is fixedly coupled to the axle and rotatably coupled to the hanger bracket such that the trailing arm is rotatable about a pivot axis with respect to the hanger bracket, wherein the trailing arm has a first lateral side and a second lateral side that is disposed opposite the first lateral side; and
an axle lift kit that includes:
a first bracket subassembly that is fastened to the hanger bracket, wherein the first bracket subassembly includes a first side member that engages the first hanger bracket lateral side, a second side member that engages the second hanger bracket lateral side, and a cross member that extends from the first side member to the second side member;
a second bracket subassembly that is fastened to the first lateral side and the second lateral side of the trailing arm; and
a lift air spring that extends between the first bracket subassembly and the second bracket subassembly and is configured to rotate the trailing arm about the pivot axis, wherein the lift air spring is mounted to the cross member.
15. The axle system of claim 14 wherein a first bolt couples the first side member to the first hanger bracket lateral side, a second bolt couples the second side member to the second hanger bracket lateral side, and the first and second bolts extend substantially parallel to the pivot axis.
16. A method of assembling an axle system comprising:
providing a trailing arm that is rotatably mounted to a hanger bracket, wherein the trailing arm has a bottom side that faces away from the hanger bracket; and
installing an axle lift kit by:
fastening a first bracket subassembly to the hanger bracket; and
fastening a second bracket subassembly to a first lateral side and a second lateral side of the trailing arm, wherein the first lateral side is disposed opposite the second lateral side, the first and second lateral sides partially extend into the hanger bracket, and the second bracket subassembly is spaced apart from and not attached to the bottom side.
17. The method of claim 16 further comprising mounting a lift air spring to the first bracket subassembly and the second bracket subassembly.
18. The method of claim 16 wherein the second bracket subassembly is fastened with a bolt and is not welded to the trailing arm.
19. The method of claim 18 wherein the second bracket subassembly includes a first side member that engages the first lateral side, a second side member that engages the second lateral side, and a cross member that extends from the first side member to the second side member, and the first and second side members are fastened to the first and second lateral sides, respectively, before the cross member is fastened to the first and second side members.
20. The method of claim 19 wherein the bolt extends through the first side member, the first lateral side, the second lateral side, and the second side member.
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US16/928,565 US11225287B1 (en) | 2020-07-14 | 2020-07-14 | Axle system having an axle lift kit and method of assembly |
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US16/928,565 US11225287B1 (en) | 2020-07-14 | 2020-07-14 | Axle system having an axle lift kit and method of assembly |
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US11820188B2 (en) * | 2021-07-08 | 2023-11-21 | Link Mfg., Ltd. | Driven lift axles and associated systems and methods |
USD1002447S1 (en) * | 2022-03-31 | 2023-10-24 | Jiexin Shengke (Weihai) New Material Technology Co., Ltd. | Axle housing |
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US5620194A (en) * | 1995-06-07 | 1997-04-15 | The Boler Company | Self-steering suspension lockout mechanism |
CA2240791A1 (en) * | 1997-07-16 | 1999-01-16 | Neway Anchorlok International, Inc | Trailing arm suspension |
US6416069B1 (en) * | 1999-08-16 | 2002-07-09 | The Boler Company | Underbeam axle lift assembly |
DE60326870D1 (en) * | 2002-10-30 | 2009-05-07 | Hendrickson Int Corp | MOUNTING STEERING DAMPERS AND REAR VEHICLE LOCKING ON THE CARRIER |
US8403346B2 (en) * | 2005-01-20 | 2013-03-26 | Watson & Chalin Manufacturring, Inc. | Adjustable run height lift axle suspension system |
US7434821B2 (en) * | 2005-05-06 | 2008-10-14 | Tuthill Corporation | Vehicle suspension with lift axle and pivotal lift spring |
US8695998B1 (en) * | 2013-02-20 | 2014-04-15 | Saf-Holland, Inc. | Axle lift assembly |
US10011153B1 (en) * | 2014-03-24 | 2018-07-03 | Jason M. Klein | Suspension for vans or semi-trailers mounted under a sliding frame, which frame has bolted-in cross members, independent air spring towers, and, oil-free shocks |
NL2013315B1 (en) * | 2014-08-08 | 2016-09-21 | Vdl Weweler Bv | Mounting of an axle lift. |
US9422014B1 (en) | 2015-02-25 | 2016-08-23 | Arvinmeritor Technology, Llc | Axle lift system and method of control |
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