LOUISVILLE, Ky. —  Hendrickson Trailer Commercial Vehicle Systems believes it has taken low maintenance suspension systems to a new level with the launch of its Zero-Maintenance Damping  ride technology, announced at the Mid-America Truck Show.

The shock absorber in a common suspension has its obvious use but as a wear item it also comes with its share of maintenance headaches. A leaking shock absorber, for example, spells trouble on a roadside inspection.

So why not remove the hassle? That’s exactly what Hendrickson, which is celebrating its 100^th year in business, did.

Available on select VANTRAAX integrated air slider models, ZMD technology provides reduced maintenance by eliminating the shock absorbers, according to Hendrickson.  Robust chain down-stops replace the rebound limiter function traditionally performed by the shock absorber.

In addition to reducing the risks associated with roadside inspections and CSA violations, these heavy-duty down-stops also provide durability, which translates to maintenance savings over the life of the trailer, Hendrickson adds.  Moreover, the robust down-stops provide reliable protection for trailers being loaded onto rail freight cars.

An additional benefit of Zero-Maintenance Damping air springs discovered during testing of the  product was enhanced ride quality.  ZMD air springs integrate the damping function traditionally performed by the shock within the air spring itself by exchanging pressurized air through channels interconnecting the bellows and piston of this patent-pending air spring.  Unlike a shock absorber whose damping capacity is finite and deteriorates with age, ZMD air springs provide continuous damping at a consistent rate over the life of the air spring, increasing trailer component life.