Hendrickson launches next generation front steer axle STEERTEK NXT
Release date: 3/18/2011
For Immediate Release
For more information contact:
Mark Slingluff
Hendrickson
(330) 489-0050
mslingluff@hendrickson-intl.com
WOODRIDGE, Ill. – Hendrickson Truck Suspension Systems officials announce the launch of the innovative, STEERTEK NXT, the next generation of their road proven, weight saving STEERTEK fabricated front steer axle. Designed for the global market, STEERTEK NXT will accommodate a variety of wheel end and knuckle designs and features scalable architecture to meet a capacity range of 8,000 pounds (3.6t) to 23,000 pounds (10.5t).
Through Hendrickson’s proprietary design and manufacturing process, STEERTEK NXT saves up to 47 pounds compared to traditional I-beam axles while combining rigid strength, outstanding maneuverability, and reduced maintenance. Designed for optimal weight savings, STEERTEK NXT can also be combined with Hendrickson’s innovative monoleaf spring technology to form the SOFTEK® lightweight front suspension system. SOFTEK provides up to 92 pounds of weight savings.
STEERTEK NXT includes continuous beam architecture which minimizes stress points for added durability while providing a superior strength to weight ratio. The rigid, box-shaped cross section of the axle resists horizontal, vertical and twisting forces more effectively than traditional I-beams and is designed to manage the increased brake torque loads resulting from the 2011 stopping distance regulations changes in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 121. For braking efficiency, STEERTEK NXT is compatible with both drum and disc brakes with either 5/8” or 3/4” fasteners.
“Providing an axle that accommodates multiple brake solutions to help our customers meet the new stopping distance regulations has been a priority for Hendrickson” says Doug Sanford, vice president and general manager for Hendrickson Truck Commercial Vehicle Systems. “The launch of STEERTEK NXT demonstrates our philosophy of continuous product improvement and innovation and our commitment to the commercial vehicle market.”
The patented two-piece knuckle assembly simplifies kingpin bushing serviceability and includes a new double lip seal to further improve bushing life, exhibiting Hendrickson’s commitment to maintenance efficiency. In addition, integrated steering arm and tie rod attachments increase strength and further reduce weight, providing greater durability helping to reduce maintenance costs.
STEERTEK NXT highlights a new, integrated clamp group and axle seat which is a key design feature that results in a platform for efficient system integration of various suspensions. These include new suspension system innovations from Hendrickson as well as OEM proprietary designs. STEERTEK NXT’s new clamp group also provides improved ground clearance and reduced part count compared to previous designs.
Customers looking for enhanced ride quality can spec Hendrickson’s AIRTEK® integrated front air suspension with the STEERTEK NXT steer axle. AIRTEK exhibits performance efficiency by providing premium comfort and increased roll stability while offering up to 55 pounds of weight savings. STEERTEK NXT can also be paired with Hendrickson leaf spring designs featured as standard equipment with most OEM customers.
To further display Hendrickson’s focus on providing value to their customers, STEERTEK NXT comes with a standard 10-year, 1 million mile limited warranty. The warranty coverage includes the axle beam, steering arm, knuckle assemblies and kingpins when used in Hendrickson-approved applications in the United States and Canada and within the proper guidelines of STEERTEK NXT.
STEERTEK NXT will be available through most major North American truck manufacturers beginning in August of 2011. Available in capacities up to 14,600 pounds, STEERTEK NXT is approved for on-highway and medium-duty truck, bus and motor home applications. For additional information on STEERTEK NXT, contact Hendrickson Truck Suspension Systems at 630-910-2800 or www.hendrickson-intl.com.
Hendrickson, a Boler company, is a premier, global manufacturer and supplier of truck, tractor, bus and recreational vehicle suspensions and heavy-duty springs; trailer suspensions, controls and nonintegrated axles; truck and trailer lift axles, and bumpers and trim components to the commercial transportation industry. Hendrickson, based in Itasca, Ill., USA, continues to meet the needs of the transportation industry after more than 95 years. Visit the Hendrickson Web site at www.hendrickson-intl.com.