Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/123324
By Tom Kelley By Tom Kelley MAINTENANCE MATTERS Get Suspended Proper Suspension Spec'ing D ifferent applications, different operations, different regulations and different priorities, all contribute to the complexity of choosing the right suspension. Far from a "one size fits all" proposition, choosing a suspension system is one of the most important and most complex aspects of spec'ing your new truck. Extremely Complex Part of the problem arises from the fact that most "truckload" hauling is an "all or nothing" scenario, running either at tare weight or at maximum gross. It may be fairly simple to suspend a truck that spends most of its life operating inside a very narrow weight range, but it's more complex when operating at the extremes is normal. With trucks and trailers used in truckload operations, the spring rate that provides the best ride when empty, won't be sufficient for running fully loaded, and conversely, the spring rate that rides best when loaded will beat you to death when running empty. Because of this suspensions generally designed to ride best when they are loaded. Another problem that adds to the complexity of choosing a suspension is the wide variation of local, regional, state and federal weight regulations that can dictate the number and spacing of axles required to maximize payload in a given operating area. The lightweight and low-maintenance MACK Twin Y Air Suspension provides best-in-class ride and handling. What To Consider? At the most basic level, there are six key considerations when selecting a suspension. 1. Capacity - How much weight can the suspension support? 2. Payload - How much does the weight of the suspension reduce or increase the truck's maximum payload? Today, it's important than ever to consider the suspension weight. With engine emission changes driving the weight of the truck up several hundred pounds, the suspension can be a way to mitigate some of the weight increase. 3. Ride Quality - How well does the suspension absorb input from the road, whether the truck is loaded or empty? 4. Articulation - How much of an input can the suspension absorb before transferring that input to the chassis, and how well does the suspension keep the wheels engaged with the ground while absorbing input? 5. Durability - How well does the suspension stand up to the rigors of daily operation, and how much regular maintenance is required? 6. Stability - How well does the suspension mitigate lateral forces imparted by dynamic or high-center loads? OO / OWNER OPERATOR/ MAY 2013 / / 46 OO 0513 edit.indd 46 4/8/13 4:34 PM