TROY, Mich. — ArvinMeritor has announced it will immediately begin production of Raydan Manufacturings Air Link suspension at its Monterrey, Mexico assembly plant.

The company will manufacture and help market the Canadian companys Air Link walking beam suspension, which is targeted towards the vocational market. The two companies inked a licensing agreement in 2004, which covers suspension applications up to 52,000 lbs GAWR for commercial trucks as well as specialty and military vehicles.

“Applying our industrialization and supply chain management tools to the Meritor Air Link suspension will allow us the opportunity to respond to our customers’ unique needs, including modules and systems, while controlling all aspects of quality and cost,” said Larry Dowers, general manager of product strategy with ArvinMeritor.

Since signing the licensing agreement, ArvinMeritor engineers have been testing the suspension through simulation and lab testing. So far, they have put it through more than three million customer-equivalent miles, the company says.

“The unique ride and articulation benefits offered by the Air Link have made it well-suited for certain military applications,” said Dowers. “This is a segment we are dedicated to and are committed to providing flexible manufacturing and customization to be more responsive to growing military requirements.”

Company officials say the Air Link compliments the companys existing axle, driveline, wheel-end and brake products offered to the heavy vocational market.

“We are pleased the Air Link’s 12 years of proven experience in the vocational market will be expanded on with ArvinMeritor’s global manufacturing base,” added Ray English, president and CEO of Edmonton-based Raydan Manufacturing. “The Meritor tandem module approach will provide an air ride option to customers using mechanical and rubber block suspensions as a cushion for drivers and reduced wear and tear on the vehicle. It’s a great combination with this suspension.”