Abstract: An equalizer device for a suspension system of a vehicle having a tandem axle has an equalizer body adapted to cooperate with springs of a suspension system. A damping device has a first end that is pivotably mounted in a fixed location relative to the equalizer body and a second end that is pivotably mounted to the vehicle frame. The equalizer body is adaptable to pivoting to transfer a portion of an additional load carried on a forward axle through springs mounted thereon to springs of a rearward axle, thereby substantially equalizing load between the forward axle and the rearward axle. The damping device is adaptable to pivoting in response to pivoting of the equalizer body and dampens movement of the equalizer body when the equalizer body is pivoting to transfer the additional load.

Abstract: A process of making a hinged access hatch for use in marine and RV industries includes selecting a stainless hinge having a pair of leaves and rotating on a pentel or pivot pin and placing a portion of one leaf of the selected hinge into an access patch door mold and sealing around said one leaf extending into said excess door hatch mold to prevent plastic in said mold from contacting the moving portion of said hinge. The access hatch door is then molded in the access hatch mold having a portion of the one leaf of the hinge molded therein. The molded access hatch door has been removably attached to an access hatch frame by attaching fasteners through the plurality of openings in the other hinge leaf whereby an access hatch eliminates the need for hinge door fasteners while improving the strength of the access hatch door attachment to the access hatch frame.