LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- Mack has brought to market a pair of new suspensions the company says will “revolutionize” the Class 8 truck market.
The Twin Y suspension, discussed at a press briefing at the Mid-America Trucking Show, can reduce weight by more than 400 lbs, while also extending tire life by 25%, according to extensive fleet trials, Jerry Warmkessel, highway products manager announced.
The Twin Y is comprised of just four parts: a spring hanger bracket, an upper axle seat, a Y blade assembly and a lower axle seat. It is the industry’s first air suspension to use a Y-shaped stamped steel design, which Warmkessel said provides a smoother ride, since the load on the suspension rests atop the air bag and not the pivot bushing.
The axle seats are attached using huck bolts that never need to be retorqued and all bushings are lubed for life, reducing maintenance requirements.
The Twin Y suspension weighs just 630 lbs, which is 151 lbs lighter than the MaxLite EZ (the lightest weight suspension Mack had in its stable previously). It is a full 403 lbs lighter than the AL-401, which was the only air suspension that could be spec’d with Mack axles.
Warmkessel declared the Twin Y “the best riding, most table air suspension we’ve ever had in the industry.”
The Twin Y is available for order immediately and will cost no more than current suspensions, Warmkessel said.
On the vocational side, Mack introduced the mRide spring suspension, which provides greater ground clerance for larger tires and brake components, as well as a lightweight design. Curtis Dorwart, vocational product manager with Mack, said the mRide provides up to 642 lbs in weight savings compared to a traditional camelback suspension. The use of spring leafs over four rubber block packs provide stability and articulation.
Dorward said the mRide delivers a smoother ride, improved stability and extended driveline joint life in vocational environments. It’s available on the Pinnacle, Granite and TerraPro.