Specifications

Product Description 4 17730-248

AIRTEK

•

SOFTEK

for Blue Bird Buses

STEERTEK — The box-shaped design provides a stiffer axle and resists torsional,

longitudinal and vertical loads more effectively than traditional axle beams. Together with

the front limbs of the leaf springs, the robotically welded axle beam forms a torsion system,

enhancing roll stability characteristics and improving handling.

Axle clamp group — The patented clamp group provides four-sided clamping pressure.

The Clamp Group consists of the following:

■ Top Axle Wrap ■ Bottom Axle Wrap

■ Top Axle Wrap Liner ■ Bottom Axle Wrap Liner

■ Top Spring Pad ■ ¾" Bolts, Washers and Locknuts

Adjustable tie rod —To help maximize tire life, the tie rod easily adjusts toe-in/out.

Steering knuckles — The steering and tie rod arms are integrated for increased strength

and reduced weight. The unique steering knuckle packaging delivers a maximum of 50°

wheel cut. The two piece knuckle design makes servicing the kingpin bushings easier.

AIRTEK — Winner of the 2001 Automotive News and Cap Gemini Ernst & Young PACE

Award for Product Innovation. AIRTEK is an integrated front air suspension and robotically

welded steer axle that work together to form an integrated torsion system. Utilizing a

system approach, Hendrickson has engineered and optimized the following components

to form a system delivering ride, stability and handling characteristics with reduced weight

and maintenance.

Air springs — Exclusive to Hendrickson, the lightweight air springs deliver a soft ride.

The air springs are engineered to support 78% of the vertical load while providing a

low spring rate. The quick “snap” design for the 10,000 pound capacity, the bolt on

design for the 14,600 pound capacity, and the “push-to-connect” air supply design

also provide fast and easy removal and installation.

Leaf spring assembly — With its innovative design, the leaf spring provides superior

stability, performance and a soft ride. The patented leaf spring shares loads with the air

spring. Durable rubber front and patented rear bushings are greaseless and only

require periodic inspections.

SOFTEK — is an integrated front mechanical suspension and robotically welded steer

axle that work together to form an integrated torsion system. Utilizing a system approach,

Hendrickson has engineered and optimized the following components to form a system

delivering ride, stability and handling characteristics with reduced weight and

maintenance.

Leaf spring assembly — With its innovative design, the leaf spring provides superior

stability, performance and a soft ride. Durable rubber front and patented rear bushings

are greaseless and only require periodic inspections.

Shock absorbers — AIRTEK/SOFTEK utilizes premium shocks that have been tested and

tuned specifically for the suspension system.

Frame brackets — Optimized design delivers weight reduction and proven durability. The

front and rear frame brackets are common between the SOFTEK and AIRTEK suspensions.

APPENDIX

SERVICE MANUAL