The new Volvo Blade Air Suspension, field-tested by customers for more than three million miles, is now available on the manufacturer’s VNL and VNM models. The air suspension features paired high-strength steel blades at each wheel end attached to the axle using the upper and lower axle seats, which according to the OEM prevents excessive axle windup and resulting vibration for a more comfortable ride and reduced tire scuffing. Customer field tests reported up to a 25 percent improvement in tire wear.
The Volvo Blade Air Suspension allows input torque ratings up to 2,050 lb/ft. and higher GCW ratings. Additionally, Volvo notes that the suspension requires less maintenance than trailing arm designs because Huck U-bolts used to connect the axle seats to the axle housing never require re-torqueing, and there are no wear pads to wear out or bushings that need lubrication or maintenance.
