®

TECHNICAL
PROCEDURE
PARASTEER
SUBJECT: Service Instructions
LIT NO: 17730-234
DATE: July 2001 REVISION: B

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Section 2 Important Safety Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Section 3 Product Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Section 4 Preventive Maintenance

Beam Assembly, Wear Pads, and Transverse Torque Rod . . . . . . 5
Shock Absorber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Steering Stabilizer Shock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Ride Height Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Section 5 Component Replacement

Frame Hanger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Beam Assembly and Wear Pads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Beam Assembly Bushings
Rubber Bushing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
PTFE Bushing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Crossmember . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Transverse Leaf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Transverse Torque Rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Transverse Torque Rod Bushing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Air Spring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Air Spring Frame Hanger and Reinforcement Bracket . . . . . . . . . 19
Shock Absorber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Axle Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Ride Height Control Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Section 6 Air Plumbing Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Section 7 Tightening Torque Specification Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . 24
PARASTEER

SECTION 1
Introduction
This publication is to acquaint and assist maintenance personnel in preventive mainte-
nance and rebuild of the HPS ParaSteer suspension system.
Hendrickson reserves the right to make changes and improvements to its products and
manuals at any time. Contact Hendrickson Tech Services at 630.910.2800 for information
on the latest version of this manual.
NOTE Use only genuine Hendrickson parts for servicing this suspension system. Most
Hendrickson parts can be identified by the Hendrickson trademark.

SECTION 2
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE
Proper maintenance service and repair is important to the reliable operation of the suspen-
sion. The procedures recommended by Hendrickson and described in this technical
publication are methods of performing such maintenance, service and repair.
The warnings and cautions should be read carefully to help prevent personal injury and to
assure that proper methods are used. Improper servicing may damage the vehicle, cause
personal injury, render it unsafe in operation, or void manufacturer's warranty.
Failure to follow the safety precautions in this manual can result in personal injury and/or
property damage. Carefully read, understand and follow all safety related information with-
in this publication and on all decals.

EXPLANATION OF SIGNAL WORDS

Hazard “Signal Words” (Danger-Warning-Caution) appear in various locations throughout
this publication. Information accented by one of these signal words must be observed to
help minimize the risk of personal injury to service personnel, or possibility of improper
service methods which may damage the vehicle or render it unsafe. Additional Notes or
Service Hints are utilized to emphasize areas of procedural importance and provide sug-
gestions for ease of repair. The following definitions indicate the use of these signal words
as they appear throughout the publication.

INDICATES IMMEDIATE HAZARDS WHICH WILL RESULT IN SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY

OR DEATH.

INDICATES HAZARDS OR UNSAFE PRACTICES WHICH COULD RESULT IN SEVERE

PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.

INDICATES HAZARDS OR UNSAFE PRACTICES WHICH COULD RESULT IN DAMAGE TO

MACHINE OR MINOR PERSONAL INJURY.
NOTE An operating procedure, practice condition, etc. which is essential to emphasize.

SERVICE HINT A helpful suggestion which will make the servicing being performed a little easier and/or
faster.

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WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

There are various warnings and cautions that should be read carefully to minimize the risk
of personal injury and to assure that proper methods are used. Improper servicing may
damage the vehicle or render it unsafe in operation.

LOAD CAPACITY
HENDRICKSON SUSPENSION REMINDS USERS TO ADHERE TO THE PUBLISHED
CAPACITY RATINGS FOR THE SUSPENSIONS. ADD-ON AXLE ATTACHMENTS AND OTHER
LOAD TRANSFERRING DEVICES CAN INCREASE THE SUSPENSION LOAD ABOVE THE
RATED AND APPROVED CAPACITIES WHICH COULD RESULT IN FAILURE AND LOSS OF
VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY CAUSING PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.

MODIFYING COMPONENTS
DO NOT MODIFY OR REWORK PARTS. DO NOT USE SUBSTITUTE PARTS OF THE
SUSPENSION. USE OF A MODIFIED OR REPLACEMENT PARTS NOT AUTHORIZED BY
HENDRICKSON MAY NOT MEET HENDRICKSON’S SPECIFICATIONS, AND CAN RESULT
IN FAILURE OF THE PART, LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. USE ONLY HENDRICKSON AUTHORIZED
REPLACEMENT PARTS DO NOT MODIFY PARTS WITHOUT AUTHORIZATION FROM
HENDRICKSON.

TORCH/WELDING
DO NOT USE A CUTTING TORCH TO REMOVE ANY ATTACHING FASTENERS. THE USE OF
HEAT ON SUSPENSION COMPONENTS WILL ADVERSELY AFFECT THE STRENGTH OF
THESE PARTS. A COMPONENT DAMAGED IN THIS MANNER CAN RESULT IN THE LOSS
OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.

PROCEDURES AND TOOLS

A MECHANIC USING A SERVICE PROCEDURE OR TOOL WHICH HAS NOT BEEN
RECOMMENDED BY HENDRICKSON MUST FIRST SATISFY HIMSELF THAT NEITHER HIS
SAFETY NOR THE VEHICLE’S SAFETY WILL BE JEOPARDIZED BY THE METHOD OR
TOOL SELECTED. INDIVIDUALS DEVIATING IN ANY MANNER FROM THE INSTRUCTIONS
PROVIDED ASSUME ALL RISKS OF CONSEQUENTIAL PERSONAL INJURY OR DAMAGE
TO EQUIPMENT INVOLVED.

PERSONNEL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

ALWAYS WEAR PROPER EYE PROTECTION AND OTHER REQUIRED PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT TO HELP PREVENT PERSONAL INJURY WHEN YOU
PERFORM VEHICLE MAINTENANCE, REPAIR OR SERVICE.

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SECTION 3
DESCRIPTION
Based on Hendrickson's proven ParaLift Ultra steerable lift axle system, ParaSteer solves
the adverse effects common to front air suspensions. Its durable design and transverse leaf
(9/98-12/99) or transverse torque rod (1/00-current) improve roll stiffness, while provid-
ing a degree of ride comfort unmatched by previous air suspensions.

■ Four-bar linkage design — maintains correct steering geometry under all conditions,
minimizing steer error caused by rough road, hard cornering and braking. Results in
more precise and accurate control for operator.
■ Heavy-duty bushings eliminate lubrication requirements and provide exceptional dura-
bility.
■ Height control valve maintains precise ride height control, regardless of changing road
surfaces, load and driving conditions.
■ Heavy-duty air spring design positions load directly over axle for increased equipment
protection, as well as premium passenger and operator comfort.
■ Transverse leaf (9/98-12/99) or transverse torque rod (1/00-Current) resists lateral
axle movement to increase roll stiffness of chassis.
■ Shock absorbers tuned for optimum damping to further enhance ride quality.
All HPS ParaSteer front steer axle suspensions are intended for installation on standard
vehicles from widths of 33.94" to 34.19" or 34.50" to 34.81". It has a capacity of up to
14,600 pounds. HPS is available with I-beam style front steering axles, S-cam brakes,
automatic slack adjuster. Weight without axle assembly is 512 lbs. (232 kg).

Figure 3-1

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SECTION 4
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

BEAM ASSEMBLY, WEAR PADS, AND TRANSVERSE TORQUE RODS

In normal use these components will function satisfactorily through the life of the vehicle,
even though the components may show some wear.
NOTE If one bushing or wear pad in beam, or one bushing in torque rod requires replacement,
Hendrickson recommends all bushings and all wear pads in beam, or both bushings in
torque rod be replaced.
For instructions on beam bushing, wear pads, or transverse torque rod bushing
replacement see the Component Replacement Section of this publication.

VEHICLES PRODUCED 9/98-12/99

Figure 4-1

An indication that the

Rubber Bushing, PTFE
Bushing (see Figure 4-1)
and/or Wear Pads are
worn is when the
suspension exhibits one
or more of the following
conditions:
■ Air Springs are shifted to the left or right side of vehicle. See Figure 4-2.
■ Excessive lateral movement of the axle (axle movement evaluation).
■ Wear Pads show successive grooves as shown in Figure 4-3.
■ Suspension noise during operation. Contact Hendrickson Tech Service for more infor-
mation.
If one or more of the above conditions are experienced, replacement is required.
Figure 4-2 Figure 4-3

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VEHICLES PRODUCED 1/00-CURRENT

Figure 4-4

An indication that the Rubber

Bushing, Wear Pads (See Figure
4-4) and/or Transverse Torque
Rod Bushings are worn is when
the suspension exhibits one or
more of the following conditions:
■ Excessive lateral movement
of the axle (axle movement
evaluation).
■ Wear Pads show succes-
sive grooves as shown in
Figure 4-3
■ Worn or loose Transverse Torque Rod Bushing.
■ Suspension noise during operation. Contact Hendrickson Tech Service for more infor-
mation.
If one or more of the above conditions are experienced, replacement is required.

SHOCK ABSORBER
Inspection of the shock absorber can be performed by doing a heat test, and a visual
inspection. For instructions on shock absorber replacement see the Component
Replacement Section of this publication. It is not necessary to replace shock absorbers in
pairs if one shock absorber requires replacement.

VISUAL INSPECTION
1. Inspect bushings for damage or excessive wear.
2. Inspect the shock absorber body and dust tube for damage.
3. Inspect shock absorber for excessive oil leaks. (Oil misting is normal and acceptable).

Figure 4-5

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HEAT TEST
1. Drive vehicle at moderate speeds for fifteen minutes.

DO NOT GRAB SHOCK ABSORBER AS IT COULD POSSIBLY CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY

2. Touch the shock absorber body carefully below the dust cover. See Figure 4-5.
3. Touch frame to get ambient reference, a warm shock is acceptable; a cold shock
should be replaced.

STEERING STABILIZER SHOCK (IF EQUIPPED)

Inspection of the stabilizer shock can only be performed visually.
1. Inspect the bushings for damage or excessive wear.
2. Inspect the stabilizer shock body and dust tube for damage.
3. Inspect the stabilizer shock for excessive oil leaks.

RIDE HEIGHT SETTING

The proper ride height is essential for maximum ride quality and performance. Proper
adjustment of the ride height control valve is described below. If the height control valve or
the linkage assembly become damaged they will require replacement. See the Component
Replacement Section in this publication.
1. Place the vehicle on level floor.
2. Free and center all suspension joints by slowly moving the vehicle back and forth with-
out applying the brakes. When coming to a complete stop make sure the parking
brakes are released.
3. Chock the rear wheels of the vehicle.
4. Loosen the clamp on the adjustable extension rod joint.
5. Remove the locknut and washer at height control valve leveling arm.

Figure 4-6

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6. Verify that air system is at full operating pressure. Exhaust the air in the air springs to
relax the suspension. Then refill the air springs to proper ride height. The normal run-
ning length of the shock absorber measures the ride height for the HPS from center of
eye to center of eye, see Figure 4-6.
The specific running length of the shock absorber varies for specific OEM applications
as shown in the matrix. The matrix also shows the shock height for the Hendrickson
HAS suspension, this is to be used for vehicles also equipped with the HAS suspen-
sion and is for reference only.

7. Use a 1/8" wooden dowel rod (golf tee) to set the neutral position for the height con-
trol valve by aligning hole in leveling arm with hole in control valve cover, as shown
in Figure 4-7.

DO NOT USE A METAL ROD OR NAIL TO SET THE NEUTRAL POSITION AS THIS MAY
CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE HEIGHT CONTROL VALVE.
8. Reposition the extension rod in the rubber joint.
9. Attach the washer and locknut and tighten to 100-150 inch pounds torque.
10. Tighten the clamp on the rubber joint with a screwdriver until securely fastened.
11. Vehicles produced after 1/00 are equipped with two height control valves. Verify proper
ride height on both sides of vehicle, and repeat this procedure for the second valve.
NOTE During cycle operation of the height control valve it is normal to experience a limited
amount of exhaust noise.

Figure 4-7

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SECTION 5
COMPONENT REPLACEMENT

FRAME HANGER
The frame hanger is unlikely to require removal or replacement. In normal use it should
function satisfactorily throughout the life of the vehicle. Replacement is only required when
the frame hanger has been damaged.

DISASSEMBLY
1. Chock wheels of axle.
2. Raise frame of vehicle to remove load from suspension.

VEHICLE MUST BE FIRMLY SUPPORTED WITH JACK STANDS PRIOR TO SERVICING.

FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
3. Verify that the air is removed from the system.
4. Remove beam assemblies, (see beam assembly Component Replacement Section of
this publication).
5. Remove the ¾" bolts, washers, and locknuts that connect crossmember to frame
hanger.
6. Remove the frame hanger from the vehicle by removing the fasteners per the vehicle
manufacturer specifications.
7. Remove frame hanger.
Figure 5-1

ASSEMBLY
1. Install frame hanger by attaching
fasteners per vehicle manufacturer
specification.
2. Install the ¾" bolts, washers,
and locknuts which connect the
crossmember to frame hanger.
Tighten locknuts to
260-320 foot
pounds torque.
3. Attach the beam assem-
blies (see beam assembly
Component Replacement Section of this publication).
4. Remove the jack stands and lower the frame of vehicle.
5. Air up the system.

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BEAM ASSEMBLY AND WEAR PADS

SERVICE HINT Service beam assemblies on one side of vehicle at a time to maintain axle alignment.

HENDRICKSON RECOMMENDS THE FOLLOWING WHEN SERVICING:

■ One Wear Pad worn, that all Wear Pads, Pivot Bolt Liners, and fasteners on suspen-
sion be replaced.
■ One Beam Bushing worn, that all Beam Bushings, Wear Pads, Pivot Bolt Liners, and
fasteners on suspension be replaced.
NOTE On vehicles produced from 9/98-12/99, the upper and lower beam assemblies are NOT
IDENTICAL.
■ The upper beam assembly contains the fabricated beam and 2 rubber beam bushings.
■ The lower beam assembly contains the fabricated beam w/ mounting flange for trans-
verse leaf, 1 rubber bushing, 1 PTFE bushing, 1 inner metal, and 2 rubber seals.
■ On vehicles produced after 1/00, the upper and lower beam assemblies ARE IDENTICAL.
■ All beam assemblies contain the fabricated beam and 2 rubber beam bushings.

DISASSEMBLY
1. Chock the wheels of the axle.
2. Raise the frame of the vehicle to remove the load from the suspension.
3. Verify that the air is removed from the system and support the frame with jack stands.
(After determining the proper beam assembly on vehicle continue to Step 4.)

VEHICLE MUST BE FIRMLY SUPPORTED WITH JACK STANDS PRIOR TO SERVICING

VEHICLE. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR
PROPERTY DAMAGE.

BEAM ASSEMBLY IN PRODUCTION 9/98 —12/99

Figure 5-2

4. Detach the transverse leaf and spacer plates

(if equipped) by removing the ¾" bolts, wash-
ers, and locknuts that connect the transverse
leaf and spacer plates to the lower beam.
5. Loosen all the 7/8" pivot bolt locknuts, DO NOT
REMOVE. See Figure 5-2.
6. Remove the pivot bolts, washers, and locknuts
that connect the lower beam assembly. To
avoid hitting crossmember, remove the rear of
beam assembly connected to the axle seat
prior to the front of beam connected to the
frame hanger.

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7. Remove lower beam assembly and wear pads.

8. Remove the pivot bolts, washers, and locknuts that connect the upper beam assem-
bly. To avoid hitting crossmember, remove rear of beam assembly connected to axle
seat prior to front of beam connected to frame hanger.
9. Remove upper beam assembly and wear pads.

ASSEMBLY
1. Attach wear pads and pivot bolt liners to beam assemblies.
2. Install upper beam assembly and attach fasteners. DO NOT TIGHTEN at this time.
3. Install lower beam assembly and attach fasteners. DO NOT TIGHTEN at this time.
4. Attach transverse leaf and spacers (if equipped). DO NOT TIGHTEN at this time
5. After all four beam assemblies and transverse leaf and spacers (if equipped) are
installed, tighten 7/8" pivot bolt locknuts to 420-480 foot pounds torque.
6. Tighten transverse leaf ¾" locknuts to 260-320 foot pounds torque.
7. Remove jack stands and lower frame of vehicle.
8. Air up system.

BEAM ASSEMBLY IN PRODUCTION 1/00 — CURRENT

Figure 5-3
Upper and Lower Beam Assembly
Current production

4. Loosen all pivot bolt locknuts, DO NOT REMOVE

at this time.
5. Remove the pivot bolts, washers, and locknuts
that connect the lower beam assembly. See
Figure 5-3. To avoid hitting crossmember,
remove rear of beam assembly connected to
axle seat prior to front of beam connected to
frame hanger.
6. Remove lower beam assembly and wear pads.
7. Remove the pivot bolts, washers, and locknuts
that connect the upper beam assembly. To
avoid hitting crossmember, remove rear of
beam assembly connected to axle seat prior to
front of beam connected to frame hanger.
8. Remove upper beam assembly and wear pads.

ASSEMBLY
1. Attach wear pads and pivot bolt liners to beam assemblies.
2. Install upper beam assembly and attach fasteners. DO NOT TIGHTEN at this time.
3. Install lower beam assembly and attach fasteners. DO NOT TIGHTEN at this time.

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PARASTEER

4. After all four beam assemblies are installed tighten the 7/8" pivot bolt locknuts to
420-480 foot pounds torque.
5. Remove the jack stands and lower the frame of vehicle.
6. Air up the system.

BEAM ASSEMBLY BUSHINGS

RUBBER BUSHINGS
Figure 5-4

DISASSEMBLY
Use a vertical shop press with a capacity of at least 10 tons. A 5" long piece of 3.5" I.D.
by .25" wall steel tubing receiving tool is required.
1. Support the beam assembly end hub centered on the receiving tool.
2. Press out the old bushing. Press directly on the bushing inner metal until the bushing
clears the beam end hub. (These bushings are not cartridge type bushings. They do
not have outer metals.) See Figure 5-4.
3. Clean and inspect the I.D. of beam end hub removing any nicks with emery cloth or
rotary sander.

ASSEMBLY
1. Lubricate the I.D. of beam end hub and the new rubber bushings with vegetable base
oil (cooking oil). DO NOT use petroleum or soap base lubricant.
2. Support the beam end hub centered on the receiving tool.
3. Press in the new bushings. Press directly on the inner metal of bushing. Bushings
must be centered within the beam end hub. When pressing in the new bushings, over-
shoot desired final position by .18" and press the bushing again from opposite side to
center the bushing within beam end hub.

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PTFE BUSHINGS
IN PRODUCTION 8/98 –12/99
Figure 5-5

DISASSEMBLY
Use a vertical shop press with a capacity of at least 10 tons. You will need: 5" long piece
of 3.5" I. D. by .25" wall steel tubing receiving tool, along with a 2.87" O.D. by .50" wall
steel tubing push out tool.
1. Remove the rubber seals.
2. Remove the inner metal. See Figure 5-5.
3. Support the beam assembly end hub centered on the receiving tool.
4. Place the push out tool on top of the bushing and press until bushing clears end of
beam hub.
5. Clean and inspect the I.D. of the beam end hub, removing any nicks with emery cloth
or rotary sander.

ASSEMBLY
1. Lubricate the I.D. of beam end hub and O.D. of new bushing with a petroleum lubri-
cant.
2. Support the beam end hub centered on the receiving tool.
3. Place the push out tool over end of bushing and align the bushing and tool in beam
end hub.
4. Press in the new bushing. Bushing must be centered within the beam end hub.
5. Install the new inner metal. See Figure 5-5.
NOTE Proper orientation of the new inner seal is important. The inner lip of the seal must face
outboard.
6. Install new rubber seals.

FAILURE TO INSTALL SEAL IN PROPER ORIENTATION WILL CAUSE PREMATURE WEAR

OF PTFE BUSHING.

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CROSSMEMBER
The crossmember is unlikely to require removal or replacement. In normal use it should
function satisfactorily throughout the life of the vehicle. Replacement is only required when
it has been bent due to hitting an unseen object. A bent crossmember could cause mis-
alignment of the front suspension, and must be changed to eliminate abnormal tire wear.
Figure 5-6

DISASSEMBLY
1. Chock the wheels of the axle.
2. Raise the frame of the vehicle to remove the load from the suspension.

VEHICLE MUST BE FIRMLY SUPPORTED WITH JACK STANDS PRIOR TO SERVICING.

FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
3. Verify that the air is removed from the system.
4. Remove the beam assemblies, (see beam assembly Component Replacement Section
of this publication).
5. Remove the ¾" bolts, washers, and locknuts that connect the crossmember to frame
hangers. See Figure 5-6.

ASSEMBLY
1. Install the new crossmember by attaching the ¾" bolts, washers, and locknuts. Tighten
to 260-320 foot pounds torque.
2. Attach beam assemblies, (see beam assembly Component Replacement Section of
this publication).
3. Remove the jack stands and lower the frame of vehicle.
4. Air up the system.

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TRANSVERSE LEAF (IF EQUIPPED)

IN PRODUCTION 9/98-12/99
See Figure 5-7

DISASSEMBLY
1. Chock the wheels of the axle.
2. Raise the frame of vehicle to remove the load from the suspension.

THE VEHICLE MUST BE FIRMLY SUPPORTED WITH JACK STANDS PRIOR TO

SERVICING. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY
DAMAGE.
3. Verify that the air is removed from the system.
4. Remove the ¾" bolts, washers, and locknuts that connect the transverse leaf and
spacer plates (if equipped) to the lower beam. See Figure 5-7.

ASSEMBLY
1. Install the transverse leaf and spacers if equipped by attaching ¾" bolts, washers, and
locknuts. Tighten the ¾” locknuts to 260-300 foot pounds torque.
2. Remove the jack stands and lower the frame of vehicle.
3. Air up the system.

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TRANSVERSE TORQUE ROD

IN PRODUCTION 1/00–CURRENT

DISASSEMBLY
1. Chock the wheels of the axle.
2. Raise the frame of vehicle to remove the load from suspension.

VEHICLE MUST BE FIRMLY SUPPORTED WITH JACK STANDS PRIOR TO SERVICING.

FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
3. Verify that the air is removed from Figure 5-8
the system.
4. Remove the 5/8" bolts, washers, and
locknuts that connect the transverse
torque rod to the frame bracket and
axle seat. See Figure 5-8.

ASSEMBLY
1. Install the transverse torque
rod by attaching the 5/8" bolts,
washers, and locknuts to the
frame bracket and axle seat.
Tighten 5/8" locknuts to
150-205 foot pounds
torque.
2. Remove the jack stands
and lower the frame of the
vehicle.
3. Air up the system and verify alignment.

TRANSVERSE TORQUE ROD BUSHING REPLACEMENT

Remove torque rods from suspension as detailed in the Component Replacement Section
of this publication.

DO NOT USE HEAT OR USE A CUTTING TORCH TO REMOVE THE BUSHINGS FROM THE
TORQUE ROD. THE USE OF HEAT WILL ADVERSELY AFFECT THE STRENGTH OF THE
TORQUE ROD.
You will need:
■ A vertical press with a capacity of at least 10 tons.
■ A receiving tool (5" long, 2" inner diameter by ¼" wall steel tubing)
1. Support the torque rod end on the receiving tool with the end tube of torque rod centered
on the tool. Be sure the torque rod is squarely supported on the press bed for safety.

16 17730-234
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2. Push directly on the bushing straddle mount bar pin until top of the bushing is level
to the top of torque rod end tube. Press until the bushing clears the torque rod end
tube.
3. Clean and inspect the inner diameter of the torque rod ends, removing any nicks with
an emery cloth or a rotary sander (See Figure 5-9).
4. Lubricate the inner diameter of the torque rod ends and the new rubber bushings with
a vegetable base oil (cooking oil), see Figure 5-10. DO NOT use a petroleum or soap
base lubricant.
5. Press in the new bushings. Support the torque rod end on the receiving tool with the
end tube of torque rod centered on the receiving tool. The straddle mount bar pin bush-
ings must have the mounting flats positioned at zero degrees to shank of the torque
rod.
6. Press directly on the straddle mount bar pin of bushing. The rubber bushings of the bar
pin must be centered within the torque rod end tubes.
7. When pressing in the new bushings, overshoot the desired final position by approxi-
mately 3/16", see Figure 5-11.
8. Press the bushing again from opposite side to center the bar pin within the torque rod
end, see Figure 5-12.
Figure 5-9 Figure 5-10

Figure 5-11 Figure 5-12

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AIR SPRING

DISASSEMBLY
1. Chock the wheels of the axle.
2. Raise the frame of the vehicle to remove load from the suspension.

VEHICLE MUST BE FIRMLY SUPPORTED WITH JACK STANDS PRIOR TO SERVICING.

FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
3. Verify that the air is removed from the system.
4. Remove the locknut and washer that connect the air spring to the axle seat.
5. Remove the air line from the air spring.
6. Remove the brass fittings from the air spring.
7. Remove the locknuts and washers that connect the air spring to the upper air spring
hanger and the reinforcement bracket. See Figure 5-13.
8. Remove the air spring.

ASSEMBLY
1. Install air spring in upper air spring hanger and reinforcement bracket by inserting
studs into appropriate holes and attach washers and locknuts.
2. Install the air spring in axle seat by inserting the stud into the appropriate hole and
attach washer and locknut.
3. Tighten the ½" locknuts to 20-30 foot pounds torque. Tighten the ¾" locknut to
40-50 foot pounds torque. See Figure 5-13.
4. Install the brass fitting in the air spring using a Teflon thread seal.
5. Connect the air line to the air spring.
6. Remove the jack stands and lower the frame of vehicle.
7. Air up the system.
Figure 5-13

18 17730-234
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AIR SPRING FRAME HANGER AND REINFORCEMENT BRACKET

The air spring frame hanger and reinforcement bracket are unlikely to require removal or
replacement. In normal use they should function satisfactorily throughout the life of the vehi-
cle. Replacement is only required when they have been damaged.

DISASSEMBLY
1. Chock the wheels of the axle.
2. Raise the frame of vehicle to remove the load from the suspension.

VEHICLE MUST BE FIRMLY SUPPORTED WITH JACK STANDS PRIOR TO SERVICING.

FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
3. Verify that the air is removed from the system.
4. Remove the air line from the air spring.
5. Remove the brass fittings from the air spring.
6. Remove the locknuts and washers that connect the air spring to the air spring hanger
and the reinforcement bracket. See Figure 5-13.
7. Lower the air spring out of air spring hanger and reinforcement bracket.
8. Remove the fasteners that attach the air spring hanger and reinforcement bracket
to vehicle.
9. Remove the air spring hanger and the reinforcement bracket.

ASSEMBLY
1. Install the air spring hanger and the reinforcement bracket by attaching frame fasten-
ers per vehicle manufacturer specification.
2. Install the air spring in the air spring hanger and reinforcement bracket by inserting
the studs into the appropriate holes and attach washers and locknuts. Tighten the
½" locknut to 20-30 foot pounds torque. Tighten the ¾" locknut to 40-50
foot pounds torque. See Figure 5-13.
3. Install the brass fitting in the air spring using a Teflon thread seal.
4. Connect the air line to the air spring.
5. Remove the jack stands and lower the frame of vehicle.
6. Air up the system.

17730-234 19
PARASTEER

SHOCK ABSORBER
Original equipment shock absorbers are 1¾" diameter bore.
Figure 5-14

DISASSEMBLY
1. Remove the locknut
and washers that
connect the shock
absorber to the
frame hanger.
2. Remove the bolt,
washers, and lock-
nut that connect the
shock absorber to
the axle seat.
3. Remove the shock absorber.
ASSEMBLY
1. Install the shock absorber to the frame bracket stud by attaching the washers and lock-
nut. Washers must be installed on each side of the shock bushing.
2. Install the shock absorber to the axle seat by attaching the bolt, washers, and locknut.
See Figure 5-14.
3. Tighten the shock fasteners to 50-70 foot pounds torque.

AXLE SEAT
The axle seat is unlikely to require removal or replacement. In normal use it should func-
tion satisfactorily throughout the life of the vehicle. Replacement is only required when the
axle seat is damaged.

DISASSEMBLY
1. Chock the wheels of axle.
2. Raise the frame of vehicle to remove load from suspension.

VEHICLE MUST BE FIRMLY SUPPORTED WITH JACK STANDS PRIOR TO SERVICING.

FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
3. Verify that air is removed from the system.
4. Remove the beam assemblies, (see beam assembly in the Component Replacement
Section of this publication).
5. Remove the 5/16" washer and locknut that attach the ride height control valve exten-
sion rod to the axle seat. See Figure 5-15.
6. Remove the ½" washer and locknut, that attach the air spring to the axle seat, and
raise the air spring out of the axle seat.

20 17730-234
 PARASTEER

7. Remove the ¾" bolt, washers, and locknut, that attach the shock absorber to axle seat,
and raise the shock absorber out of the axle seat.
8. Remove the fasteners that attach the axle seat to the axle.
9. Remove the axle seat.

ASSEMBLY
1. Install the axle seat by attaching the fasteners per the vehicle manufacturer specifica-
tions.
2. Install the beam assemblies, (see beam assembly in the Component Replacement
Section of this publication).
3. Install air spring in axle seat by attaching ½" washer and locknut to stud. Tighten ½"
locknuts to 20-30 foot pounds torque.
4. Install shock absorber in axle seat by attaching ¾" bolt, washers, and locknut. Tighten
to 50-70 foot pounds torque. See Figure 5-15
5. Install ride height control valve extension rod in axle seat by attaching 5/16" wash-
er and locknut. Tighten 5/16" locknuts to 100-150 inch pounds torque, see
Figure 5–16.
6. Remove the jack stands and lower the frame of vehicle.
7. Air up the system.
8. Verify that the suspension is at the proper ride height setting, see ride height setting in
the Preventive Maintenance Section of this publication.

Figure 5-15

17730-234 21
PARASTEER

RIDE HEIGHT CONTROL VALVE

Figure 5-16

DISASSEMBLY
1. Chock wheels of the axle.
2. Raise the frame of vehicle to remove the load from the suspension.

VEHICLE MUST BE FIRMLY SUPPORTED WITH JACK STANDS PRIOR TO SERVICING.

FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
3. Verify that the air is removed from the system.
4. Remove the 5/16" washers and locknuts that attach the extension rod to the height con-
trol valve arm. See Figure 5-16.
5. Remove the air lines from the height control valve.
6. Remove the brass fittings from the height control valve.
7. Remove the ¼" washers and locknuts that attach the height control valve to the air
spring frame hanger.
8. Remove the height control valve.

ASSEMBLY
1. Install the ride height control valve to air spring frame hanger by attaching the
¼" washers and locknuts. Tighten ¼" locknuts to 60-85 inch pounds torque. See
Figure 5-16.
2. Install brass fittings into height control valve using Teflon thread seal.
3. Install air lines to ride height control valve.
4. Install the extension rod to the ride height control valve arm by attaching the 5/16" wash-
ers and locknut. Tighten 5/16" locknuts to 100-150 inch pounds torque.
5. Remove the jack stands and lower the frame of vehicle.
6. Air up the system.
7. Verify that the suspension is at the proper ride height setting, (see ride height setting in
the Preventive Maintenance Section of this publication).

22 17730-234
 PARASTEER

SECTION 6
PARASTEER
AIR PLUMBING DIAGRAM

17730-234 23
SECTION 7
Tightening Torque
Specification Chart

IMPORTANT NOTE * Torque values listed above apply only if Hendrickson supplied fasteners are used.
If non-Hendrickson fasteners are used, follow the torque specifications listed in the
vehicle manufacturer’s service manual.

Information contained in this literature was accurate at the

time of publication. Product changes may have been made
after the copyright date that are not reflected.
Truck Suspension Systems 630.910.2800 The Boler Company
800 S. Frontage Road FAX 630.910.2899 Copyright © 2001
17734-234B 2M 7-01 Printed in United States of America. Woodridge, IL 60517-4904 www.hendrickson-intl.com All Rights Reserved