The vocational Kenworth T880 is now available for order with the Hendrickson Ultimaax advanced severe-duty rubber suspension. The Ultimaax suspension offers a balance of empty ride quality and loaded stability for driver comfort, while also cushioning the load and protecting the chassis, cargo and body equipment from excessive vibration and road shock due to potholes and rugged terrain, according to the company. For the T880, the suspension is available with axle ratings from 46,000 to 52,000 lbs., axle spacings of 54- and 60-in. with 11-in. ride height for applications such as refuse, sand and gravel, crane/boom, platform, construction, and logging.
The suspension features bar pin end bushings, a progressive load spring design, and a rugged axle connection to extend its service life. The progressive load spring design also makes replacement easier and the rugged axle connection can reduce re-bush time. Rubber shear springs carry a majority of vertical load in the empty condition, creating a smoother ride. As the load increases, the suspension’s ride and stability characteristics change to meet the application’s needs without an abrupt change in spring load.
“Fleets that operate trucks up to 52,000-lb. capacities can now specify the Hendrickson Ultimaax severe-duty suspension with the Kenworth T880 to provide their drivers with a consistently smooth ride while running loaded or empty on the harshest roads and terrains,” said Kurt Swihart, Kenworth marketing director.