13
Tech Updates
A
ccording to Hendrickson, a
vehicle equipped with a front
steer axle (like the Hendrickson
STEERTEK and STEERTEK NXT)
can be toward by any of the following
methods for on-highway or on-roadway
applications.
The following are listed in order of
preference by Hendrickson.
Method 1: Wheel lift (ideal towing
procedure)
Method 2: Towing the vehicle from
the rear
Method 3: conventional axle fork lift *
Method 4: Spring eye and hanger lift
(may require the remove of fairings)
Hendrickson says it also recommends
an alternative axle fork method for its
STEERTEK NXT that requires standard
tow forks and designated lift points.
The company outlines the method
below.
Place a spacer on the boom to pro-
vide adequate clearance between the
oil pan and the boom if necessary.
Lift the vehicle in order to place space
under tires. Hendrickson says this
will provide suffi cient room under
the axle to locate forks in the proper
position.
It is recommended to maintain air in
the air springs to help prevent dam-
age to the air spring bump stop while
towing the vehicle. An alternative air
source may be necessary if the engine
or compressor will not function. If
the air spring is punctured, tow the
steer axle suspension with the air
springs defl ated, the company says.
Release the tractor brakes.
Install safety traps prior to towing the
vehicle – it is preferred to use nylon
safety straps. Hendrickson says chains
have a tendency to bind and may
cause damage to the axle.
Use a tow fork such as a Miller Short
Frame Fork or a comparable fork.
Install the fork in the boom properly.
Hendrickson says the proper tow
fork location is centered between the
locknuts on the axle spring seats.
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PROPER HITCHING TECHNIQUE INTO FRONT STEER AXLES
