Body Builder Instructions

Volvo Trucks North America

Axle and Suspension

VN, VHD, VAH
Section 6
Introduction
This document provides information on axle and suspension applications in Volvo
vehicles.

Note: We have attempted to cover as much information as possible. However, this

information does not cover all the unique variations that a vehicle may present. Note that
illustrations are typical but may not reflect all the variations of assembly.

All data provided is based on information that was current at time of release. However,
this information is subject to change without notice.

Please note that no part of this information may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted by
any means without the express written permission of Volvo Trucks North America.

Contents:
• “VN Front Axle”, page 2

• “VHD Front Axle ”, page 4

• “VOLVO Rear Suspension”, page 8

• “Single Axle Rear Suspension”, page 8

• “VOLVO 6 x 4 (T-Ride)”, page 13

• “VOLVO Air Suspension”, page 26

• “Hendrickson Axle Suspension”, page 27

• “Hendrickson RT403/RT463”, page 28

• “Hendrickson HAS Air Suspension”, page 30

• “Hendrickson Primaax”, page 33

• “Air System”, page 42

• “Air Suspension Height, Adjustment”, page 44

• “Rear Axle Literature”, page 46

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Page 1 (46)
All Rights Reserved
Front Axle
VN Front Axle Options
Manufac- Axle Axle Weight Hub Sales SWB SWB MWB MWB LWB LWB
turer Model Drop Rating Type Code (<190) (<190) (191– (191– (<231) (<231)
Inner Outer 230) In- 230) Out- Inner Outer
Wheel- Wheel- ner er Wheel- Wheel-
cut cut Wheel- Wheel- cut cut
cut cut
3.5” 12,000 Basic
370113
lbs.
FF961
3.5” 12,500 Basic 370342
lbs.
3.5” 12,000 Unitized 370365
lbs.
FF965
3.5” 12,500 Unitized 370343
50 35.8 50 38.6 50 38.6
lbs. 370366
Meritor
FF967 3.5” 12,100 Unitized 370383
(Dou- 12,500 370384
ble 13,200 370328
Drop lbs.

FG943 5” 14,600 Basic 370031

lbs.
FG941 5” 14,600 Basic 370031
45 31.5 45 35.3 45 35.3
lbs.
12,000 Basic 370351
lbs.
12,000 Unitized 370355
lbs.
12,500 Basic 370352
lbs.
Hendrick- 12,500 Unitized 370356
Steertek 4.2” 50 35.7 50 37.8 50 37.8
son lbs.
13,200 Basic 370353
lbs.
13,200 Unitized 370357
lbs.
14,600 Basic 370354
lbs.
Dana 12,500 Basic 370045
E-12021 3.5” 50 34.9 50 37.7 50 37.7
Spicer 12,000 Basic

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

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 Manufac- Axle Axle Weight Hub Sales SWB SWB MWB MWB LWB LWB
turer Model Drop Rating Type Code (<190) (<190) (191– (191– (<231) (<231)
Inner Outer 230) In- 230) Out- Inner Outer
Wheel- Wheel- ner er Wheel- Wheel-
cut cut Wheel- Wheel- cut cut
cut cut
3.5”(- 370308
Dou- 12,000– 370369
VOLVO VF Unitized 50 34.7 50 36.6 50 37.9
ble 14,600 370370
Drop) 370372

Notes:

• The Dana Spicer Axle is a CE options.

• The Dana Spicer Axle can only be used with the VOAS Rear Suspension.

• The FF943 is only used for the 160 mm (6.2 in) ride height option.

• 24.5" wheels and 315/80R22.5 tires may not achieve maximum wheelcut.

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

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VHD Front Axle
VOLVO VF Axle Type
Overall Overall
AXLE FWD Turn Angle AXLE BACK Turn Angle
Width Width
TIRE Wheel Cen- Wheelbase (in) Wheelbase (in)
Inset Outside
terline
of Tire
(Inch) of
Bulge 134 - 190 191 - 230 231 - 312 134 - 190 191 - 230 231 - 312
Tires
(in)
(in)

4.30 84.5 102 28° 23.3° 27° 23.3° 25° 22.6° 37° 28.7° 35° 28.6° 32° 28°
445/65R22.5
(13” RIMS) 5.25 –
82.5 100 23° 20° 22° 19.5° 21° 19.3° 33° 26.5° 31° 26° 29° 25.7°
5.30
4.30 84.5 102 28° 23.3° 27° 23.3° 25° 22.6° 37° 28.7° 35° 28.6° 32° 28°
425/65R22.5
(13” RIMS) 5.25 –
82.5 100 23° 20° 22° 19.5° 21° 19.3° 33° 26.5° 31° 26° 29° 25.7°
5.30

425/65R22.5 4.00 85.1 100.2 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 41° 34.1°
(12.25” RIMS) 4.75 83.6 102 29° 24° 28° 24° 27° 24.2° 37° 28.7° 35° 28.6° 33° 28.7°

385/65R22.5 4.00 85.1 100.6 40° 30.2° 38° 30.4° 36° 30.8° 45° 32.4° 42° 32.5° 39° 32.8°
(12.25” RIMS) 4.75 83.6 99.2 35° 27.6° 34° 28° 32° 28° 45° 32.4° 41° 32° 37° 31.5°
3.12 86.9 99.2 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 44° 36°
5.25 82.6 94.9 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 44° 36°
315/80R22.5
(9" RIMS) 5.94 –
81.1 93.4 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 39° 32.8°
6.04
6.38 81.9 94.2 39° 29.7° 37° 29.8° 35° 30.1° 43° 31.6° 40° 31.5° 37° 31.5°
5.63 –
81.7 93.2 40° 33.5° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
295/80R22.5 5.73
40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 45° 32.4°
(8.25" RIMS) 6.13 –
80.8 92.3 39° 32.9° 43° 33° 40° 33.5°
6.16
5.66 –
81.7 92.6
275/70R22.5 5.71
40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
80.9 91.8
6.16
5.66 –
81.7 92
255/70R22.5 5.71
40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
80.8 91.2
6.16
5.63 –
81.7 93.2 40° 31.5° 39° 32.9° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 39° 32.8°
12R24.5 5.73
40° 30.2°
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
80.8 92.3 37° 29.8° 35° 30.1° 40° 30.2° 37° 29.8° 35° 30.1°
6.16
5.63 –
81.7 92.7 40° 31.5° 39° 32.9° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 39° 32.8°
12R22.5 5.73
40° 30.2°
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
80.8 91.8 38° 30.4° 35° 30.1° 43° 31.6° 40° 31.5° 37° 31.5°
6.16
5.63 –
81.7 92.7 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 40° 33.5°
11R24.5 5.73
40° 30.2° 39° 30.9°
(8.25" RIMS) 6.13 –
80.8 91.8 38° 32.2° 44° 32° 41° 32° 38° 32.2°
6.16

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 Overall Overall
AXLE FWD Turn Angle AXLE BACK Turn Angle
Width Width
TIRE Wheel Cen- Wheelbase (in) Wheelbase (in)
Inset Outside
terline
(Inch) of Tire
of
Bulge 134 - 190 191 - 230 231 - 312 134 - 190 191 - 230 231 - 312
Tires
(in)
(in)

5.63 –
81.7 92.7 40° 33.5° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
11R22.5 5.73
40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 45° 32.4°
(8.25" RIMS) 6.13 –
80.8 91.8 39° 32.9° 43° 33° 40° 33.5°
6.16
69.92 INCH (1776 mm) AXLE WIDTH (King Pin Intersection to King Pin Intersection)

FL941 Axle Type

Overall Overall
AXLE FWD Turn Angle AXLE BACK Turn Angle
Width Width
TIRE Wheel Out- Wheelbase (in) Wheelbase (in)
Inset Center-
side of
(Inch) line of
Tire
Tires 134 - 190 191 - 230 231 - 312 134 - 190 191 - 230 231 - 312
Bulge
(in)
(in)

4.30 83.1 100.6 28° 23.3° 27° 23.3° 25° 22.6° 37° 28.7° 35° 28.6° 32° 28°
5.25 –
81.1 98.6 23° 20° 22° 19.5° 21° 19.3° 33° 26.5° 31° 26° 29° 25.7°
445/65R22.5 5.30
(13” RIMS) 4.30 83.1 100 32° 25.9° 30° 25.3° 28° 25° 41° 30.7° 38° 30.4° 34° 29.4°
5.25 –
81.1 98 27° 22.7° 26° 22.5° 25° 22.6° 36° 28.2° 34° 28° 32° 28°
5.30

445/65R22.5 4.00 83.7 100.6 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 41° 34.1°
(12.25” RIMS) 4.75 82.2 98.8 29° 24° 28° 24° 27° 24.2° 37° 28.7° 35° 28.6° 33° 28.7°

385/65R22.5 4.00 83.7 99.2 40° 30.2° 38° 30.4° 36° 30.8° 45° 32.4° 42° 32.5° 39° 32.8°
(12.25” RIMS) 4.75 82.2 97.8 35° 27.6° 34° 28° 32° 28° 45° 32.4° 41° 32° 37° 31.5°
3.12 85.5 97.8 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 44° 36°
5.25 81.2 93.5 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 44° 36°
315/80R22.5 5.94 –
79.7 92 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 39° 32.8°
6.04
6.3 80.5 92.8 39° 29.7° 37° 29.8° 35° 30.1° 43° 31.6° 40° 31.5° 37° 31.5°
5.63 –
80.3 91.8 40° 33.5° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
295/80R22.5 5.73
40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 45° 32.4°
(8.25" RIMS) 6.13 –
79.4 90.9 39° 32.9° 43° 33° 40° 33.5°
6.16
5.66 –
80.3 91.2 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
275/70R22.5 5.71
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
79.5 90.4 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
6.16
5.66 –
80.3 90.6 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
255/70R22.5 5.71
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
79.4 89.8 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 43° 32.4 43° 34° 43° 36.5°
6.16

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

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 Overall Overall
AXLE FWD Turn Angle AXLE BACK Turn Angle
Width Width
TIRE Wheel Out- Wheelbase (in) Wheelbase (in)
Inset Center-
side of
(Inch) line of
Tire
Tires 134 - 190 191 - 230 231 - 312 134 - 190 191 - 230 231 - 312
Bulge
(in)
(in)

5.63 –
80.3 91.8 40° 31.5° 39° 32.9° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 39° 32.8°
12R24.5 5.73
40° 30.2°
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
79.4 90.9 37° 29.8° 35° 30.1° 40° 30.2° 37° 29.8° 35° 30.1°
6.16
5.63 –
80.3 91.3 40° 31.5° 39° 32.9° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 39° 32.8°
12R22.5 5.73
40° 30.2°
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
79.4 90.4 38° 30.4° 35° 30.1° 43° 31.6° 40° 31.5° 37° 31.5°
6.16
5.63 –
80.3 91.3 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 40° 33.5°
11R24.5 5.73
40° 30.2° 39° 30.9°
(8.25" RIMS) 6.13 –
79.4 90.4 38° 32.2° 44° 32° 41° 32° 38° 32.2°
6.16
5.63 –
80.3 91.3 40° 33.5° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
11R22.5 5.73
40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 45° 32.4°
(8.25" RIMS) 6.13 –
79.4 90.4 39° 32.9° 43° 33° 40° 33.5°
6.16
68.5 INCH (1739.9mm) AXLE WIDTH (King Pin Intersection to King Pin Intersection)

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

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 FG941 Axle Type
Overall Overall
AXLE FWD Turn Angle AXLE BACK Turn Angle
Width Width
TIRE Wheel Out- Wheelbase (in) Wheelbase (in)
Inset Center-
side of
line of
(Inch) Tire
Tires 134 - 190 191 - 230 231 - 312 134 - 190 191 - 230 231 - 312
Bulge
(in)
(in)

3.12 85.98 98.28 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 44° 36°
5.25 81.68 93.98 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4 45° 34° 44° 36°
315/80R22.5 5.94 –
80.18 92.48 40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 39° 32.8°
6.04
6.38 80.98 93.28 39° 29.7° 37° 29.8° 35° 30.1° 43° 31.6° 40° 31.5° 37° 31.5°
5.63 –
80.78 92.28 40° 33.5° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
295/80R22.5 5.73
40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 45° 32.4°
(8.25" RIMS) 6.13 –
79.88 91.38 39° 32.9° 43° 33° 40° 33.5°
6.16
5.66 –
80.78 91.68
275/70R22.5 5.71
40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
79.8 90.88
6.16
5.66 –
80.78 91.08
255/70R22.5 5.71
40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
79.88 90.28
6.16
5.63 –
80.3 91.8 40° 31.5° 39° 32.9° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 39° 32.8°
12R24.5 5.73
40° 30.2°
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
79.4 90.9 37° 29.8° 35° 30.1° 40° 30.2° 37° 29.8° 35° 30.1°
6.16
5.63 –
80.3 91.3 40° 31.5° 39° 32.9° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 39° 32.8°
12R22.5 5.73
40° 30.2°
(8.25” RIMS) 6.13 –
79.4 90.4 38° 30.4° 35° 30.1° 43° 31.6° 40° 31.5° 37° 31.5°
6.16
5.63 –
80.3 91.3 40° 33.5° 45° 32.4° 43° 33° 40° 33.5°
11R24.5 5.73
40° 30.2° 39° 30.9°
(8.25" RIMS) 6.13 –
79.4 90.4 38° 32.2° 44° 32° 41° 32° 38° 32.2°
6.16
5.63 –
80.3 91.3 40° 33.5° 45° 34° 45° 36.5°
11R22.5 5.73
40° 30.2° 40° 31.5° 45° 32.4°
(8.25" RIMS) 6.13 –
79.4 90.4 39° 32.9° 43° 33° 40° 33.5°
6.16
69 INCH (1752.6mm) AXLE WIDTH AXLE WIDTH (King Pin Intersection to King Pin Intersection)

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

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VOLVO Rear Suspension
Single Axle Rear Suspension

W7001192

Fig. 1 Typical 4 x 2 Leaf Spring Rear Suspension

1 Leaf Spring Assembly
2 Front Spring Hanger
3 Rear Spring Hanger
4 Pin
5 Axle Housing
6 U-Bolts
7 Spring Pad
8 Radius Leaf Spring
9 Replaceable Bushing and Pin

Single rear suspensions consist of variable flat leaf springs with leaf-type radius rods. Variable rate springs provide superior
ride characteristics, under both empty and loaded conditions because, as the load increases, the effective spring length de-
creases, making the spring stiffer. Replaceable polymer web blocks on the contact points between the springs and the spring
brackets eliminate the possibility of wear of the spring hangers. In addition, replaceable hard steel blocks eliminate lateral
wear of the spring hanger.

The leaf-type radius rods are attached to the spring brackets using a 2–bolt mount. This permits easy and accurate align-
ment of the rear axle using shims.

Auxiliary springs are available as an option on most models. They are recommended for off-highway applications or to pro-
vide additional stability with high center of gravity loads. It is not recommended that these auxiliary springs be used to in-
crease load-carrying capacity.

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

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 Progressive Rate Springs

W7001193

Fig. 2 Progressive Rate VOLVO 4 x 2 Rear Springs

1 Helper Spring
2 Main Spring
3 Frame Bracket

Conventional progressive rate (double) springs are used only on vehicles with single rear axles. Double leaf springs consist
of a helper spring (1) located above a main spring (2). The helper spring has a sliding attachment which contacts a frame
bracket (3), which provides the progressive spring characteristic. The helper spring works only when the vehicle is loaded.

4 x 2 with Leaf Springs

Refer to Fig. 1 “Typical 4 x 2 Leaf Spring Rear Suspension”, page 8 . The leaf spring assembly (1) on the single axle suspen-
sion configuration is anchored to the frame by a front (2) and rear (3) hanger bracket. Unlike front springs, this type of spring
does not use a spring eye bushing. The spring has a hook on each end and rests on a pin and delron pad (4). The spring is
anchored to the rear axle housing (5) via U-bolts (6) and rests on a spring pad (7). A radius leaf spring (8) is used as part of
the spring assembly to absorb the torque action caused by the rear axle. The eye end of the radius leaf is anchored to the
front spring bracket with a replaceable bushing and pin (9).

Tire Jounce, 4 x 2 Series

Frame Rail Height mm (in.)

266 (10.47) 300 (11.81), (VHD)

Suspension Ca-
pacity (lb) X W X W
Y Y
Loaded Light Loaded Light

22,500 688 (27.1) 772 (30.4) 123 (4.8) 713 (28.1) 797 (31.4) 64 (2.5)

25,500
28,500 N/A N/A N/A 731 (28.8) 818 (32.2) 84 (3.3)

31,500

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VOLVO 4 x 2 (Bartuska)
Model VOLVO 4 x 2 (Bartuska)

Capacity (lb) 22,500 25,500 28,500 31,500

Main Spring Type Multileaf

Helper Spring Type — Multileaf

Width of Leaf 76.2 mm (3.0 in.)

Helper Spring — 7 @ 9.1 mm (0.358 in.)

7 @ 15 mm (0.591 in.)
Number of
Main Spring 2 @ 11.5 mm (0.449 in.)
Leaves @ Leaf
1 @ 12.7 mm (0.500 in.)
Thickness
2 @ 9.1 mm (0.358 in.)
Radius Spring
1 @ 11.4 mm (0.449 in.)

Capacity @ Pad, Each (lb) 10,000 11,500 13,000 14,500

Main Spring 3.900

Deflection Rate
(lb/in.) with Helper Spring
— 8,260
Engaged1

170 mm
Spring Stack Height (in.) 233 mm (9.17 in.)
(6.69 in.)

Weight of Complete Suspension2 (lb) 659 804 809

Shock Absorbers N/A
Suspension Jounce (Metal to Metal) 63.5 mm (2.50 in.)

Creep Rating N/A3

Vehicle Models VN, VHD VHD

23080, 23105, RS-23-160/ 26105, 30105,
Axle Models
161, RS-23-186 RS-26-185 RS-30-185
1 Helper spring contact at 6,500 lb main spring load.

2 Including crossmembers (QTY - 2)

3 No creep rating available. Vehicles with single rear drive axles using liftable auxiliary axles will require that a rear suspension and
rear axle (as well as other vehicle components) be specified with sufficient load-carrying capacity to support the actual full vehicle
load when the auxiliary axle is lifted (unloaded).

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

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 W7001033

VOLVO 4 x 2 (Bartuska), Side and Top Views

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

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 W7001035

VOLVO 4 x 2 (Bartuska), Tire Jounce

A See “Tire Radius, VOLVO 4 x 2 (Bartuska)”, page 12 .

B At centerline of rear axle (based on noted tires).
X Loaded; ± 10 mm (0.4 in); see “Tire Jounce, 4 x 2 Series”, page 9 .
W Light; ± 10 mm (0.4 in); see “Tire Jounce, 4 x 2 Series”, page 9 .
Y Metal-to-metal tire jounce; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.); see “Tire Jounce, 4 x 2 Series”, page 9 .

Tire Radius, VOLVO 4 x 2 (Bartuska)

Loaded Radius Light Radius Overall Diameter
A Tire Size Reference Tire Type
mm in. mm in. mm in.
22,500 lb 11R22.5 488 19.2 517 20.4 1050 41.3 Michelin XZE
25,500 lb
28,500 lb 315/80R22.5 506 19.9 538 21.2 1091 43.0 Michelin XDY-1
31,500 lb

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 VOLVO 6 x 4 (T-Ride)

W6001421

Fig. 3 Rear Suspension 6 x 4 (T-Ride)

1 Parabolic Tapered Springs
2 Rubber Cushions
3 Cradle
4 U-bolt
5 Saddle Bracket
6 Upper V-torque Rod
7 Lower Torque Rods
8 Axle Stop

The VOLVO T-Ride tandem suspension is designed for use in both on- and off-highway applications. It offers maximum artic-
ulation for traction.

Vehicles equipped with T-Ride suspension have considerable lateral stability, making them well suited to construction or
heavy-duty work applications. This stability is due to the stiff springs as well as a high suspension roll center and a greater
distance between spring centers. The parabolic tapered springs (1) are mounted upside down outside the frame rail; see
Fig. 3 on page 13 . The springs are attached to the two rear axles with rubber cushions (2) which absorb shock and vibrations
from the axles (thereby minimizing suspension wear). Chains inside the cushions limit their extension.

The springs are anchored to the frame by a cradle (3) and U-bolts (4) to allow for motion between the two axles.

This suspension is equipped with torque rods to help maintain axle alignment. The upper V rods (6) are attached to the top of
the rear axle housing and to the frame. The V rods distribute laterally transmitted forces, as well as any starting and braking
torques. The four lower torque rods (7) are adjustable to align the rear axles; these are also used to transfer starting and
braking torques from the rear axles to the frame.

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VOLVO T-Ride (38,000-46,000)

W7056823

VOLVO T-Ride (38,000-46,000), Side and Top Views

A, B, C, D, E, See “Bogie Spread, VOLVO T-Ride (38,000-46,000)”, page 17 .

F, G, H, J:

1 Based on 850 mm frame width

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 W7001029

VOLVO T-Ride (38,000 - 46,000), Tire Jounce

A See “Tire Jounce, T-Ride Series”, page 18 .

B At centerline of rear axle (based on noted tires).
X Loaded; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.); see “Tire Jounce, T-Ride Series”, page 18 .
W Light; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.); see “Tire Jounce, T-Ride Series”, page 18 .
Y Metal-to-metal tire jounce; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.); see “Tire Jounce, T-Ride Series”, page 18 .

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 15 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Model VOLVO T-Ride
Capacity (lb) 38,000 40,000

Load Distribution 50-50

Spring Type Parabolic

Width of Leaf 75 mm (2.95 in.)

Number of Leaves 4 2 5 3
1 @ 51 mm (2.02 2 @ 48 mm (1.88
in.) in.)
Leaf Thickness 31.8 mm (1.25 in.) 31.8 mm (1.25 in.)
1 @ 63 mm (2.46 1 @ 55 mm (2.17
in.) in.)

Capacity @ Pad, Each (lb) 16,800 17,800 17,800 17,800

Deflection Rate (lb/in.) 7,400 19,500 8,550 17,900

Weight of Complete Suspension1 (lb) 1,280 1,132 1,346 22,000

V Rod Tube (OD x Wall THK) 48 mm (1.89 in.) x 5 mm (0.20 in.)

Lower Torque Rod Tube Adjustable 48 mm (1.89 in.) x 5 mm (0.20 in.) (L)
(OD x Wall THK) Fixed 48 mm (1.89 in.) x 5 mm (0.20 in.) (R)

Spring Height 135 mm (5.3 in.) 118 mm (4.64 in.) 169 mm (6.65 in.) 143 mm (5.63 in.)

Axle Spacing 1370 mm (54 in.)

Creep Rating (See Chart, page 24 .)

Suspension Jounce (Metal to Metal) 100 mm (3.94 in.)

Rear Shock Absorbers STD (QTY-4) OPT (QTY-4) STD (QTY-4) OPT (QTY-4)

Vehicle Models VN VHD VN, VHD (Tractor) VHD

RT40-145/149, RT40-145/149, RT40-145/149, RT40-145/149,
Axle Models RT40-160/169, RT40-160/169, RT40-160/169, RT40-160/169,
MT-40-14x MT-40-14x MT-40-14x MT-40-14x
1 Including torque rods, brackets, and crossmembers (bogie, plus 1 forward of bogie).

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 16 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Model VOLVO T-Ride
Capacity (lb) 44,000 46,000

Load Distribution 50-50

Spring Type Parabolic

Width of Leaf 75 mm (2.95 in.)

Number of Leaves 3
Leaf Thickness 2 @ 48 mm (1.88 in.); 1 @ 55 mm (2.17 in.)

Capacity @ Pad, Each (lb) 19,800 20,200

Deflection Rate (lb/in.) 17,900

Weight of Complete Suspension1 (lb) 1,317

V Rod Tube (OD x Wall THK) 48 mm (1.89 in.) x 5 mm (0.20 in.)

Adjustable 48 mm (1.89 in.) x 5 mm (0.20 in.) (L)

Lower Torque Rod Tube (OD x Wall THK)
Fixed 48 mm (1.89 in.) x 5 mm (0.20 in.) (R)

Spring Height 147 mm (5.79 in.)

Axle Spacing 1370 mm (54 in.)

Creep Rating (See Chart, page 24 .)

Suspension Jounce (Metal to Metal) 100 mm (3.94 in.)

Rear Shock Absorbers OPT (QTY-4) STD (QTY-4)2

Vehicle Models VHD VHD, VN

RT-46-160/169, RT-46-
Axle Models RT-44-145, MT-40-14x
164/16H
1 Including torque rods, brackets, and crossmembers (bogie, plus 1 forward of bogie).

2 Shocks: standard for tractor, optional for truck.

3 Shocks mounted on front drive axle position only.

Bogie Spread, VOLVO T-Ride (38,000-46,000)

Bogie Spread, mm (in.)

38,000 40,000 44,000 46,000

Axle Type ALL

A 555 (21.9)

B 277.5 (10.95)

C 1045 (41.2)

D 131 (5.2)

E 1183 (46.6)

F 165 (6.5)

G 900 (35.4)

H 450 (17.7)

J 1116 (45.9)

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 17 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Loaded Radius Light Radius Overall Diameter
Tire Size Reference Tire Type
mm in. mm in. mm in.
A 11R22.5 488 19.2 517 20.4 1050 41.3 Michelin XZE

Tire Jounce, T-Ride Series

Frame Rail Height mm (in.)

266 (10.47) 300 (11.81)

X W X W
Y Y
Loaded Light Loaded Light

38,000 4-Leaf
733 (28.9) 812 (32.0) 114 (4.5) 716 (28.2) 795 (31.3) 97 (3.8)
5-Leaf
40,000
2-Leaf
44,000 722 (28.4) 769 (30.3) 91 (3.6)
3-Leaf
46,000
3-Leaf/RT2610HV
48,000 N/A N/A N/A
9-Leaf
765 (30.1) 827 (32.5) 87 (3.4)
52,000 11-Leaf/RT2610HV
11-Leaf
58,000
9-Leaf/RT3210HV 758 (29.8) 829 (32.6) 94 (3.7)

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 18 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 T-Ride (48,000 – 58,000)

W7056824

VOLVO T-Ride (48,000 – 58,000), Side and Top Views

A, B, C, D, E, See “Bogie Spread, VOLVO T-Ride (48,000 - 58,000)”, page 23 .

F, G, H, J:

1 11 – leaf, multileaf spring shown; worst case configuration shown with components projecting
above top of siderails.

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 19 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 W7001034

VOLVO T-Ride (48,000-58,000), Tire Jounce

A See “Tire Jounce, T-Ride Series”, page 18 .

B At centerline of rear axle (based on noted tires).
X Loaded; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.); see “Tire Jounce, T-Ride Series”, page 18 .
W Light; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.); see “Tire Jounce, T-Ride Series”, page 18
Y Metal-to-metal tire jounce; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.); see “Tire Jounce, T-Ride Series”, page 18 .

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 20 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 VOLVO T-Ride
Model
22 24 26
Capacity (lb) 48,000 52,000 58,000

Load Distribution 50-50

Spring Type Parabolic

Width of Leaf 75 mm (2.95 in.)

Number of Leaves 3
Leaf Thickness 2 @ 49 mm (1.93 in.); 1 @ 55 mm (2.17 in.)

Capacity @ Pad, Each (lb) 20,400 22,400 25,400

Deflection Rate (lb/in.) 16,100

Weight of Complete Suspension1 (lb) 1,570

V Rod Tube (OD x Wall THK) 58 mm (2.28 in.) x 5 mm (0.20 in.)

Lower Torque Rod Tube (OD x Adjustable 48 mm (1.89 in.) x 5 mm (0.20 in.) (L)
Wall THK) Fixed 50 mm (1.97 in.) x 6 mm (0.24 in.) (R)

Spring Height 159 mm (6.26 in.)

Axle Spacing 1370 mm (54 in.)

(See chart, “Rear Axle/Rear Suspension Creep Ratings (38K – 46K

Creep Rating
Tandem Axles)”, page 24 .)

Suspension Jounce (Metal to Metal) 100 mm (3.94 in.)

Rear Shock Absorbers OPT (QTY-2) 2

Vehicle Models VHD

Axle Models RT2498SM RT2698SM
1 Including torque rods, brackets, and crossmembers (bogie, plus 1 forward of bogie).

3 Shocks mounted on front drive axle position only.

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 21 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 VOLVO T-Ride
Model
24 24 26
Capacity (lb) 48,000 52,000 58,000

Load Distribution 50-50

Spring Type Multileaf

Width of Leaf 75 mm (2.95 in.)

Number of Leaves 9 11
Leaf Thickness 26 mm (1.02 in.)

Capacity @ Pad, Each (lb) 24,300 28,600

Deflection Rate (lb/in.) 14,400 17,700

Weight of Complete Suspension1 (lb) 1,723

V Rod Tube (OD x Wall THK) 58 mm (2.28 in.) x 5 mm (0.20 in.)

Lower Torque Rod Tube (OD x Wall Adjustable 48 mm (1.89 in.) x 5 mm (0.20 in.) (L)
THK) Fixed 50 mm (1.97 in.) x 6 mm (0.24) (R)

286 mm (11.26
Spring Height 234 mm (9.21 in.) 234 mm (9.21 in.)
in.)

Axle Spacing 1370 mm (54 in.)

(See chart, “Rear Axle/Rear Suspension Creep Ratings (38K

Creep Rating
– 46K Tandem Axles)”, page 24 .)

Suspension Jounce (Metal to Metal) (See “Tire Jounce, T-Ride Series”, page 18 .)

Rear Shock Absorbers OPT (QTY-2)2

Vehicle Models VHD VHD VHD

Axle Models RT2498SM RT2698SM
1 Including torque rods, brackets, and crossmembers (bogie, plus 1 forward of bogie).

2 Shocks mounted on front drive axle position only.

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 22 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Sales Code Suspension Number of Spring Width VHD Only U Bolt Dimension 1
Load Leafs Length (Above Top of
Rail)

350-381 48K
3-Leaf
350-383 52K Truck/Tractor 400 mm 22 mm (1 in.)
Parabolic
350-389 58K
75 mm (2.95
9-Leaf Multi- 400 mm 22 mm (1 in.)
350-382 48K (22) in.)
Leaf
52K (24) Truck/Tractor
350-384 11-Leaf Multi- 58 mm (2.28
445 mm
350-386 58K (26) Leaf in.)

Bogie Spread, VOLVO T-Ride (48,000 - 58,000)

Bogie Spread, mm (in.)

48,000 52,000 58,000

Axle Type RT2498SM RT2698SM

A 706 (27.8)

B 353 (13.9)

C 1036 (40.8) 957 (37.7)

D 119 (4.7) 112 (4.4)

E 1354 (53.3)

F 110 (4.3)

G 1010 (39.8)

H 505 (19.9)

J 1241.4 (49.3)

Loaded Radius Light Radius Overall Diameter

Tire Size Reference Tire Type
mm in. mm in. mm in.
A 315/80R22.5 506 19.9 538 21.2 1091 43.0 Michelin XDY-1

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 23 (46)
All Rights Reserved
Rear Axle/Rear Suspension Creep Ratings (38K – 46K Tandem Axles)
Rear Axle Type/Rear Axle Creep Rating (lb) / 38K - 46K Tandem Axles (see “Creep Rating:”, page 25 )

40,000 lb 44,000 lb 46,000 lb

Meritor Meritor Meritor Meritor

Meritor Dana
RT-40-145/ RT-40-160/ Dana D405 Dana DS40 Dana DH44 RT-46-160/ RT-46-164/ Dana 463P
Suspen- RT-44-145 D462P
149 169 169 16H
Rear Suspension sion

Type Creep
55,000 55,000 58,000 60,000 55,000 62,000 60,000 60,000 62,000 64,000
Rating (lb)

(B-Ride/ (4-Leaf Not

NO AUXILIARY AXLES PERMITTED
38K) Spring) Available

(5-Leaf 50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹

50,000
Spring) 2P or 1T² 2P or 1T² 2P or 1T² 2P or 1T²

55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹

(2-Leaf
(B-Ride/ 55,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
Spring)
40K) 1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T²

55,000¹ 58,000¹ 55,000¹ 60,000¹

(3-Leaf
60,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
Spring)
1P1T² 1P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T²

55,000¹ 60,000¹
(B-Ride/ (3-Leaf
60,000 3P or
44K) Spring) 3P or 1P1T²
1P1T²

60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹

(B-Ride/ (3-Leaf
60,000 3P or 3P or 3P or
46K) Spring) 3P or 2P1T²
2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T²

55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹

Hendrickson
55,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
RT 403 (40,000 lb)
1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T²

55,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹

Hendrickson
60,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
RT 403 (40,000 lb) 3P or 1P1T² 3P or 2P1T²
2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T²

55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹

Hendrickson
55,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
RT 463 (46,000 lb)
1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T²

Hendrickson 55,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹

HN 402/HMX 400 60,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or

3P or 1P1T² 3P or 2P1T²
(40,000 lb) 2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T²

Hendrickson 50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹

HN 462/HMX 460 50,000 2P or 2P or 2P or 2P or

(46,000 lb) 1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T²

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 24 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Rear Axle Type/Rear Axle Creep Rating (lb) / 38K - 46K Tandem Axles (see “Creep Rating:”, page 25 )

40,000 lb 44,000 lb 46,000 lb

Meritor Meritor Meritor Meritor

Meritor Dana
RT-40-145/ RT-40-160/ Dana D405 Dana DS40 Dana DH44 RT-46-160/ RT-46-164/ Dana 463P
Suspen- RT-44-145 D462P
149 169 169 16H
Rear Suspension sion

Type Creep
55,000 55,000 58,000 60,000 55,000 62,000 60,000 60,000 62,000 64,000
Rating (lb)

50,000¹ 50,000¹
Hendrickson
50,000 2P or
HAS (44,000 lb) 2P or 1P1T²
1P1T²

50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹

Hendrickson
50,000 2P or 2P or 2P or
HAS (46,000 lb) 2P or 1P1T²
1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T²

¹Suspension/axle combination creep rating (lb).

²Number of auxiliary axles allowed: 3P = 3 pushers or less; 2P = 2 pushers or less 1T = 1 tag; 2P1T = 2 pushers & 1 tag or less; 1P1T = 1 pusher & 1 tag or less

Creep Rating:
(See chart, “Rear Axle/Rear Suspension Creep Ratings (38K – 46K Tandem Axles)” on page 24 .)

• For off-highway (work site) with auxiliary axles lifted at MAXIMUM SPEED of 5 miles per hour.

• This condition should not exceed 5% of total operating miles of the vehicle.

• For standard track rear axle housings only.

• For dual tire configuration only.

Note: Creep ratings for the rear axle and rear suspension are from the respective manufacturer's published data; additional
requirements per rear axle and/or rear suspension supplier may be required.

Note: Creep ratings (per chart on page 24 ) are for rear axles/rear suspensions only. They do not take into account other ve-
hicle components (i.e., brakes, wheel equipment, frame, etc.)

Note: The following vehicles are approved ONLY for use with one (1) auxiliary axle, regardless of creep rating:

• Vehicles designated for TRACTOR application; and

• Vehicles equipped with a liftable non-steer auxiliary axle.

Any deviations outside of these parameters will require prior approval on a per-vehicle order basis.

CAUTION
CREEP RATINGS CANNOT BE EXCEEDED! Operators using vehicles equipped with liftable auxiliary axles must consid-
er these creep ratings when any liftable auxiliary axle is unloaded. The auxiliary axles should only be lifted (unloaded) to
improve vehicle maneuverability in off-road use or when the vehicle is unloaded.

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 25 (46)
All Rights Reserved
VOLVO Air Suspension

W7001036

The design of the Air-Ride Suspension has been refined by Volvo Trucks North America. The result of this refinement proc-
ess is the VOLVO Optimized Air Suspension. This new suspension is a rear air suspension with improved ride characteristics
and increased durability.

CAUTION
The VOLVO Optimized Air Suspension is set at the factory. Changing the ride height will affect the driveshaft angles and
may cause driveline vibration and/or shorten component life.
Ride height adjustments must be performed in accordance with all documented service procedures.

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 26 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Hendrickson Axle Suspension
Specifications
Hendrickson
Model RT403 RT463 HH HH
Capacity (lb) 40,000 46,000 40,000 46,000

Load Distribution 50-50

Spring Type Steel Rubber
Width of Spring 65 mm (4 in.)

Number of Leaves 10 13
Leaf Thickness 14.173 mm (0.558 in.)

Capacity @ Pad, Each (lb) 18,000 21,000 18,000 21,000

Deflection Rate (lb/in.) 15,600 20,700

Weight of Complete Suspension (lb) 1.3432 1.4842 8611

Beam Center Bushing Material RUBBER BRONZE N/A
Spring Height, mm (in.) 141.7 (5.58) 184.2 (7.25) N/A
Transverse Torque Rod OPTIONAL STANDARD STANDARD
Axle Spacing, Standard 54

Axle Spacing, Optional 60 60, 72.5

Rear Shock Absorbers NOT AVAILABLE STANDARD

(See chart, “Rear Axle/Rear Suspension Creep Ratings (38K – 46K Tandem
Creep Rating
Axles)”, page 33 .)

Suspension Jounce (Metal-to-Metal) 5.00

GCW 160,000 190,000 160,000 190,000

GVW 73,000 80,000 73,000 80,000

Vehicle Models VHD VHD
DH444, D462P,
D405, DS40, D40- DH444, D46-170,
D405, DS40, MT- D463P, MT-44-
170 MT-40- MT-44-A145D,
40-A14*D, RT-40- A145D, RT-44-
Axle Models A14*D, RT-40- RT-44-1454, RT-
145/149, RT-40- 1454, RT-46-160/
145/149,RT-40- 46-160/169, RT-
160/169 169, RT-46-164/
160/169 46-164/16H
16H
1 Includes torque rods, brackets, and crossmembers (bogie, plus 1 forward of bogie).

2 Does not include weight for optional transverse torque rods; add 44 kg (97 lb) for RT403; add 10.5 kg (23 lb) for RT463.

3 RT463 with transverse torque rod requires rubber center bushings in place of bronze center bushings.

4 Suspension capacity derated to 44,000 lb when used with these axles.

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 27 (46)
All Rights Reserved
Hendrickson RT403/RT463

W7001021

Fig. 4 Hendrickson RT403/463, Side and Top Views

1 Bogie centerline
2 Crossmember centerline
A, B, C, D, E, F, G: See the below “Bogie Spread, RT403/463 Side and Top Views” table.

Bogie Spread, RT403/463 Side and Top Views

Bogie Spread, RT403/463, mm (in.)

1370 (54) 1524 (60)

A 724 (28.5) 798 (31.4)

B 794 (31.3) 872 (34.3)

C 1604 (63.1) 1652 (65.0)

D 582 (22.9)

E 556 (21.9)

F 0 25.4 (1.0)

G 548 (21.6) 600 (23.6)

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 28 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 W7001023

Fig. 5 Hendrickson RT403/463, Tire Jounce

A See the below “Tire Radius, Hendrickson RT403/463” table.
B At centerline of rear axle (based on noted tires).
H1 Bogie Spread (see the below “Bogie Spread, Hendrickson RT403/463” table.
X Loaded; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.).
W Light; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.)
Y Metal-to-metal tire jounce; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.)

Tire Radius, Hendrickson RT403/463

Loaded Radius Light Radius Overall Diameter
Tire Size Reference Tire Type
mm in. mm in. mm in.
A 11R22.5 488 19.2 517 20.4 1050 41.3 Michelin XZE

Bogie Spread, Hendrickson RT403/463

Bogie Spread

H1 1370 mm (54 in.) 1524 mm (60 in.)

1 Measured at suspension beam end centers. Add 25.4 mm (1.0 in.) for center of tire to tire spacing.

X W
Y
Loaded Light
mm in. mm in. mm in.
RT403 738 29.1 798 31.4 102 4.0
RT463 741 29.2 805 31.7 99 3.9

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 29 (46)
All Rights Reserved
Hendrickson HAS Air Suspension

W7001030

Fig. 6 Hendrickson HAS Air, Side and Top Views

A, B, C, D, E, F: See the below “Bogie Spread: HAS Air, Side, and Top Views” table.

Bogie Spread: HAS Air, Side, and Top Views

Bogie Spread, HAS, mm (in.)

1370 (54) 1524 (60)

A 1366 (53.8) 1441 (56.8)

B 1172 (46.1) 1247 (49.1)

C 397 (15.6) 472 (18.6)

D 143 (5.6) 218 (8.6)

E 359 (14.1) 434 (17.1)

F 1299 (51.1) 1374 (54.1)

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 30 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 W7001032

Fig. 7 Hendrickson HAS, Tire Jounce

A See the below “Tire Radius, Hendrickson HAS” table.
B At centerline of rear axle (based on noted tires).
H Bogie Spread (see the below “Bogie Spread, Hendrickson HAS” table.
X Loaded; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.).
W Light; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.).
Y Metal-to-metal tire jounce; ± 10 mm (0.4 in.).

Tire Radius, Hendrickson HAS

Loaded Radius Light Radius Overall Diameter
Tire Size Reference Tire Type
mm in. mm in. mm in.
A 11R22.5 488 19.2 517 20.4 1050 41.3 Michelin XZE

Bogie Spread, Hendrickson HAS

Bogie Spread

H 1370 mm (54 in.) 1524 mm (60 in.)

X W
Y
Loaded Light

HAS mm in. mm in. mm in.

VN 704 27.7 736 29.0 9 0.04
VHD 729 28.7 761 30.0 −16 −0.6

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 31 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Hendrickson
Model HAS Primaax
69,000 (Tri-
Capacity (lb) 40,000 44,000 46,000 40,000 44,000 46,000
drive)

Evenly Dis-
Load Distribution 50-50 50–50 tributed
(33/33/33)

Spring Type Air Air

Width of Spring 76.2 mm (3.0 in.) N/A
Number of Leaves 1 N/A
Leaf Thickness 50.8 mm (2.0 in.) N/A
Capacity @ Pad, Each (lb) 10,500 N/A
Deflection Rate (lb/in.) 12,060 N/A
Weight of Complete Sus-
9051 920 1 937 1 1,030 1,555
pension (lb)

Axle Spacing, Standard 54 54

Axle Spacing, Optional 60 60
Rear Shock Absorbers STANDARD STANDARD
Creep Rating (See chart, “Rear Axle/Rear Suspension Creep Ratings (38K – 46K Tandem Axles)”, page 33 .)

Suspension Jounce (Metal-

3.00 3.5
to-Metal)

Dependent
GCW 150,000 180,000
on Axle
GVW 76,000 N/A
Vehicle Models VN, VHD VHD VN, VHD VN, VHD VHD VN, VHD VN, VHD
D462P, RT-40-145,
D405,
D463P, RT- D405, RT-
DS40, RT-
DH44, RT- 46-160/ 40-160, DH44, RT- RT-46-160,
Axle Models 40-145/ R3S3173
44-145 169, RT- D40-170, 44-145 D46-170
149, RT-40-
46-164/ DSH-40,
160/169²
16H MT-40-14x
1 Includes torque rods, brackets, and crossmembers (bogie, plus 1 forward of bogie).
2 D405 and RT-40-145/149 with Hendrickson HAS. Not applicable on VN.

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 32 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Hendrickson Primaax

W6038618

Fig. 8 Hendrickson Primaax, Side View

Rear Axle/Rear Suspension Creep Ratings (38K – 46K Tandem Axles)

Rear Axle Type / Rear Axle Creep Rating (lb) / 38K - 46K Tandem Axles (see “Creep Rating:”, page 35 )

40,000 lb 44,000 lb 46,000 lb

Meritor Meritor Meritor Meritor

Suspen- Dana Meritor Dana Dana
RT-40-145/ RT-40-160/ Dana D405 RT-46-160/ RT-46-164/ Dana 463P
Rear Suspension Type sion Creep DS40 RT-44-145 DH44 D462P
149 169 169 16H
Rating (lb)
55,000 55,000 58,000 60,000 55,000 62,000 60,000 60,000 62,000 64,000

(4-Leaf Not
VBT38 K) NO AUXILIARY AXLES PERMITTED
Spring) Available

(5-Leaf 50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹

50,000
Spring) 2P or 1T² 2P or 1T² 2P or 1T² 2P or 1T²

55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹

(2-Leaf
55,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
VBT40 Spring)
1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T²

55,000¹ 58,000¹ 55,000¹ 60,000¹

(3-Leaf
60,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
Spring)
1P1T² 1P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T²

55,000¹ 60,000¹
(3-Leaf
VBT44 60,000 3P or 3P or
Spring)
1P1T² 1P1T²

60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹

(3-Leaf
VBT46 60,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
Spring)
2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T²

55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹

Hendrickson
55,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
RT 403 (40,000 lb)
1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T²

Hendrickson 60,000 55,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 33 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Rear Axle Type / Rear Axle Creep Rating (lb) / 38K - 46K Tandem Axles (see “Creep Rating:”, page 35 )

40,000 lb 44,000 lb 46,000 lb

Meritor Meritor Meritor Meritor

Suspen- Dana Meritor Dana Dana
RT-40-145/ RT-40-160/ Dana D405 RT-46-160/ RT-46-164/ Dana 463P
Rear Suspension Type sion Creep DS40 RT-44-145 DH44 D462P
149 169 169 16H
Rating (lb)
55,000 55,000 58,000 60,000 55,000 62,000 60,000 60,000 62,000 64,000

3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
RT 403 (40,000 lb)
1P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T²

55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹ 55,000¹

Hendrickson
55,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
RT 463 (46,000 lb)
1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T²

55,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹ 60,000¹

Hendrickson
60,000 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or 3P or
HN 402 (40,000 lb)
1P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T² 2P1T²

50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹

Hendrickson
50,000 2P or 2P or 2P or 2P or
HN 462 (46,000 lb)
1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T²

Hendrickson
46,000
PAX 462 (46,000 lb)

Hendrickson
69,000
PAX 692 (69,000 lb)

50,000¹ 50,000¹
Hendrickson
50,000 2P or 2P or
HAS (40,000 lb)
1P1T² 1P1T²

50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹ 50,000¹

Hendrickson
50,000 2P or 2P or 2P or 2P or
HAS (46,000 lb)
1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T² 1P1T²

¹Suspension/axle combination creep rating (lb).

²Number of auxiliary axles allowed: 3P = 3 pushers or less; 2P = 2 pushers or less 1T = 1 tag; 2P1T = 2 pushers & 1 tag or less; 1P1T = 1 pusher & 1 tag or less

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 34 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Creep Rating:
(See chart, “Rear Axle/Rear Suspension Creep Ratings (38K – 46K Tandem Axles)” on page 33 .)

• For off-highway (work site) with auxiliary axles lifted at MAXIMUM SPEED of 5 miles per hour.

• This condition should not exceed 5% of total operating miles of the vehicle.

• For standard track rear axle housings only.

• For dual tire configuration only.

Note: Creep ratings for the rear axle and rear suspension are from the respective manufacturer's published data; additional
requirements per rear axle and/or rear suspension supplier may be required.

Note: Creep ratings (per chart on page 33 ) are for rear axles/rear suspensions only. They do not take into account other ve-
hicle components (i.e., brakes, wheel equipment, frame, etc.)

Note: The following vehicles are approved ONLY for use with one (1) auxiliary axle, regardless of creep rating:

• Vehicles designated for TRACTOR application; and

• Vehicles equipped with a liftable non-steer auxiliary axle.

Any deviations outside of these parameters will require prior approval on a per-vehicle order basis.

CAUTION
CREEP RATINGS CANNOT BE EXCEEDED! Operators using vehicles equipped with liftable auxiliary axles must consid-
er these creep ratings when any liftable auxiliary axle is unloaded. The auxiliary axles should only be lifted (unloaded) to
improve vehicle maneuverability in off-road use or when the vehicle is unloaded.

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

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All Rights Reserved
Design and Function
Hendrickson RT (Steel Spring)

W6001425

The Hendrickson RT suspension uses short, relatively stiff springs which are mounted on top of equalizing beams. The
beams are attached to the underside of the axle housings providing a below-axle load suspension. The springs are fixed at
one end to sturdy frame brackets. The opposite ends are of the slipper-type and contact frame brackets, providing a 4 – point
frame mounting. Two torque rods eliminate the tendency of the drive axles to wind up during drive and brake torque condi-
tions. The use of rubber bushings at noted oscillating points eliminates the need for lubrication.

This suspension is recommended for highway or off-highway use.

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 36 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Center Bushings
The use of rubber or bronze bushings is dependent on a variety of factors dictated by the operating conditions and geo-
graphic location of the vehicle. These factors can be determined only by the experience of the operator. In the absence of
this experience, use these general guidelines:

Center Bushing Application Guide

Applications Transit Mixer, Refuse Packer

On-Hwy Dump Logger Off-Hwy
Capacity <11 yd³ >11 yd³ <20 yd³ >20 yd³

Recommended A A A A A
34K
Heavy Duty A*, B A*, B A*, B A*, B A*, B

Recommended C, D D C, D E E E
38-40K
Heavy Duty E E E D* D* D* D*, E D*
Recommended E E E E E
44-46K
Heavy Duty D*, F* D*, F* D*, E, F* D*, F* F* D*, F* E, F* F*
Recommended E E E E
48-52K
Heavy Duty F* F* F* F* E, F* F*
See “Guidelines for Rubber or Bronze Bushing Applications”, page 37 for explanation of letters.

*Transverse rods are MANDATORY with option indicated.

Guidelines for Rubber or Bronze Bushing Applications

A 34,000 Rubber — standard 34K bushing offered by the truck manufacturer. It is an economical bushing, requiring no
maintenance and providing satisfactory life for a variety of applications.
B 34,000 Bronze — this bushing can provide extended service life for tight cornering conditions. Proper preventive
maintenance is required.
C 38,000 Rubber — this bushing, although no longer used for new vehicle production, is a highly economical 38K -
rated bushing. It requires no maintenance and provides satisfactory life for its application.
D 40–46,000 Rubber — this high confinement bushing is the standard 40K bushing offered. It provides excellent serv-
ice life for a variety of applications without required maintenance. Also used up to 46K with transverse rods.
E 8–52,000 Bronze — this is the standard release bushing provided at manufacture. It provides long life in severe serv-
ice applications, and requires proper preventive maintenance.
F 46–52,000 Rubber — this fully bonded bushing requires the use of transverse rods at these ratings. It needs no
maintenance, yet provides long life in severe service. Use of this bushing slightly reduces the available diagonal
articulation.

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 37 (46)
All Rights Reserved
Transverse Rod Applications
Transverse rods are mandatory for the following applications:

• All Walking Beam Series Suspensions, up to and including 23,600 kg (52,000 lb) capacity with axle spacing 1524 mm (60
in) or greater.

• All Walking Beam Series Suspensions, up to and including 23,600 kg (52,000 lb) capacity when used on front-end loader
refuse packers (except with 40,000 lb suspension with bronze center bushings).

• All Air-Ride Series Suspensions.

• All HN Series Suspensions.

• All Walking Beam Series Suspensions with capacities of 20,00 – 23,600 kgs (44,000 – 52,000 lbs) when using rubber
equalizing beam center bushings, regardless of axle spacing.
Transverse rods also are recommended where it is necessary to restrict the lateral movement of axles to prevent interfer-
ence of tires, brakes, axle housings, and other components with the frame, body, or suspension components. This must be
determined by the vehicle manufacturer prior to vehicle assembly.

Note: When transverse rods are used, the equalizing beam center bushing must be rubber. This may require changing from
bronze center bushings (which are standard with some suspensions) to maintain the rating. A vehicle equipped with trans-
verse rods may experience some reduction in suspension articulation or increased lateral stiffness and resistance to turning,
especially with radial ply tires.

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 38 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Air Suspension
Vehicles equipped with an air ride suspension absorb the variations in road conditions with an air spring and the assistance
of a Z shaped leaf spring. The air suspension provides a smooth ride whether the vehicle is loaded or unloaded. It also re-
duces wear on tires and chassis.

The air springs are mounted to the Z leaf springs via a crossmember and attached to the frame on top. The Z spring mounts
to the axle housing, spring hanger bracket and the radius leaf spring.

Air Suspension
Hendrickson HAS

W6001427

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 39 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 W6056914

Hendrickson HAS Single Rear Suspension

The Hendrickson HAS air suspension is designed for up to 25% off-highway use. It features thicker main support members
and premium longitudinal torque rods to handle rough off-highway bumps and shocks. This provides greater driver comfort
and equipment protection off-highway, where other air suspensions cannot be used. It also is approved for use with an auxili-
ary lift axle.

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 40 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Hendrickson Primaax

W6038613

W6056913

Hendrickson Primaax Tandem Rear Suspension

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 41 (46)
All Rights Reserved
Air System
A height control valve (1) — or leveling valve — regulates the air supply to the air springs. The valve is mounted inside the
frame rail with a rod connecting the lever on the valve to air spring support crossbeam (4). Air is supplied to the suspension
to the “B” system air tank. As weight is applied to the vehicle, the frame is forced downward so that the rod linkage forces the
lever on the height control valve upward, allowing air pressure to flow through the valve and into the air spring.

As weight is removed from the vehicle, the frame rises, and the lever on the control valve is pulled down, releasing air from
the air spring. A dash-mounted control valve allows the operator to raise or lower the suspension when connecting or discon-
necting from a trailer.

For details on switch function, see “Pneumatic Switch Function”, page 43 .

W7000765

Fig. 9 Air System

1 Leveling Valve
2 Ride Height
3 Axle Centerline
4 Crossbeam (Pedestal Plate)

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

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All Rights Reserved
 W7000714

Fig. 10 Dash-mounted control valve (switches)

Pneumatic Switch Function

Switch Terminal
Switch
Function A B C D
To Cluster +12 V Illumi-
Interaxle +12 V
Telltale Ground nation
DLO Supply
Lamp Control
To Cluster +12 V Illumi-
Fifth Wheel
Telltale Not Used Ground nation
Slide
Lamp Control
To Cluster +12 V Illumi-
Suspension
Telltale Not Used Ground nation
Dump
Lamp Control
W3000573
W3000574
+12 V Illumi-
Interwheel
N/A Not Used Ground nation
DLO
Control

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

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All Rights Reserved
Air Suspension Height, Adjustment
Procedure:

DANGER
Do not attempt to repair or service this vehicle without sufficient training, the correct service literature, and the proper tools.
Failure to follow this could make the vehicle unsafe and lead to serious personal injury or death.

CAUTION
The air suspension is set at the factory. Changing the ride height will affect the driveshaft angles and may cause driveline
vibration and/or shorten component life. Ride height adjustments must be performed in accordance with all docu-
mented service procedures.

Note: After a suspension component replacement an alignment should be performed.

Note: Use special tool J-44544.

This document provides procedures for adjusting the air suspension.

1. Prepare the vehicle for the ride height calculation as follows:

• Park the vehicle on a level surface (the front wheels must be pointed straight ahead).

• Free and center all suspension joints by slowly moving the vehicle back and forth twice without using the brake. When
coming to a complete stop, make sure the brakes (parking and service) are released.

• Chock the front wheels.

Note: Measurements must be performed on an unloaded vehicle.
2. Check all tires for proper inflation. Adjust tire air pressure to tire manufacturer’s specifications.
3. Using the dash mounted rear suspension air dump switch release the air in the rear air spring, or disconnect the leveling
rod from the leveling valve so that the pressure is released from the air springs.

WARNING
Avoid personal injury. BEFORE releasing air pressure from air springs, BE SURE neither your hand nor another persons
hand, etc., is in a position where it could be pinched between components when the frame/suspension drops.

4. Start the engine and allow the air system to attain normal operating pressure of 827 kPa (120 psi). Turn off the engine.
5. Fill the rear air springs with air using the dash mounted switch or reconnect the actuator rod to the load leveling valve
lever.
Ensure the air system is at normal operating pressure of 827 kPa (120 psi).
6. Measure the size of the frame.
Note: The ride height measurement is dependent on frame size.
7. Measure the distance from the floor to the center of the axle.
8. Measure the distance from the bottom edge of the frame to the floor.
9. The difference in the two measurements is the ride height. Verify that the vehicle is at the correct ride height per Table A.

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 44 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 Table A – Frame Height and Ride Height Measurements

Frame Height mm (in.) including frame type Ride Height mm. (in.) (unloaded)
266 (10.47) RRH-200 210 ± 5 (mm), 8.27 ± .2 (in)
300 (11.81) RRH–180 193 ± 5 (mm), 7.6 ± .2 (in)

10. Adjust the ride height (if required).

11. Loosen the fastener securing the load leveling valve to the frame. Use the ride height adjustment socket wrench to adjust
the valve so the ride height is within specification. The suspension ride height is changed by turning the load leveling valve
clockwise (to raise) or counter-clockwise (to lower). Tighten the fastener securing the load leveling valve to the frame to 175
± 30 Nm (129± 22 ft-lb).

W7081225

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 45 (46)
All Rights Reserved
 12. Re-check the ride height to confirm the accuracy of the leveling valve adjustments.
13. Using the dash mounted rear suspension air dump switch release the air in the rear air spring, or disconnect the leveling
rod from the leveling valve so that the pressure is released from the air springs.

WARNING
Avoid personal injury. BEFORE releasing air pressure from air springs, BE SURE neither your hand nor another persons
hand, etc., is in a position where it could be pinched between components when the frame/suspension drops.

14. Start the engine and allow the air system to attain normal operating pressure of 827 kPa (120 psi). Turn off the engine.
15. Fill the rear air springs with air using the dash mounted switch or reconnect the actuator rod to the load leveling valve
lever.
Ensure the air system is at normal operating pressure of 827 kPa (120 psi).
16. Re-check the ride height.

If the ride height measurement is not within the specifications. Check the leveling valve and other suspension components
for wear of damage.
17. Apply the parking brake.
18. Remove the wheel chocks.

Rear Axle Literature

Printed copies of the rear axle literature are no longer available from the axle suppliers. Therefore, Volvo Trucks North Amer-
ica is unable to supply this printed literature to its dealers.

Service manuals for many of the supplier’s rear axles are now available from the official web sites Dana Corporation and
Meritor.

To review and download rear axle literature, please visit:

http://www.dana.com/wps/wcm/connect/dext2lit/DANA+RESOURCE/Critical+Resource
www.meritor.com/LOD

Notes

Volvo Body Builder Instructions VN, VHD, VAH, Section 6

USA138165691 Date 1.2017 Axle and Suspension Page 46 (46)
All Rights Reserved