Abstract: An elastomeric spring suspension is described for supporting a longitudinally extending vehicle frame rail above first and second axles forming a tandem axle configuration. The suspension includes a frame hanger assembly mounted to the vehicle frame rail. The frame hanger assembly has two full spring modules, each of which includes two shear springs, a progressive spring rate load cushion having a pyramidal shape with a flattened top surface and a spring mount for mounting the springs. A saddle assembly is connected to the spring mount, and an equalizing beam is connected to the saddle assembly and further connected to the axles. The spring rate for the suspension increases almost linearly as a function of sprung load, resembling a pneumatic suspension. Accordingly, the suspension exhibits excellent ride quality, without sacrificing roll stability.

Abstract: An elastomeric spring suspension is described for supporting a longitudinally extending vehicle frame rail above first and second axles forming a tandem axle configuration. The suspension includes a frame hanger assembly mounted to the vehicle frame rail. The frame hanger assembly has two full spring modules, each of which includes two shear springs, a progressive spring rate load cushion having a pyramidal shape with a flattened top surface and a spring mount for mounting the springs. A saddle assembly is connected to the spring mount, and an equalizing beam is connected to the saddle assembly and further connected to the axles. The spring rate for the suspension increases almost linearly as a function of sprung load, resembling a pneumatic suspension. Accordingly, the suspension exhibits excellent ride quality, without sacrificing roll stability.

Abstract: A bushing is shown to include an inner metal component having a performance tuning feature integrated therewith. An elastomer is bonded to the inner metal component. The performance tuning feature may include one or more ribs extending radially outwardly from and circumferentially about the main elongated body portion of the inner metal component.

Abstract: A bushing is shown to include a barpin having an anti-walkout feature in the form of a flange integrated therewith. The flange extends radially outwardly and circumferentially about the elongated body of the barpin. An elastomer is bonded to the barpin.

Abstract: A suspension system component for use in association with a leaf spring eye wrap of a leaf spring is shown to include a generally rigid planar base portion and a generally rigid scarf gap cover portion extending from the base portion in a direction generally normal to the base portion. The scarf gap cover portion includes first and second cover portion portions extending in different planes and adjoined at a seam. The component further includes a generally rigid first stop portion formed as a peg-like structure extending from the base portion in the same direction as the scarf gap cover portion. The component also includes a generally rigid second stop portion formed as a curved engagement surface extending from the base portion in that same direction.

Abstract: A fabricated control rod is disclosed having a spacer with a “C” or “U-shaped” channel cross-section. The spacer also has a bushing tube welded to each of its ends. Each end of the spacer is shaped to have a substantially continuous mating engagement with the exterior side surface of the adjacent bushing tube. Also, at least a substantially complete perimeter weld joins both the interior and exterior of each shaped end to the bushing tube.

Abstract: A fabricated control rod is disclosed having a spacer with a “C” or “U- shaped” channel cross-section. The spacer also has a bushing tube welded to each of its ends. Each end of the spacer is shaped to have a substantially continuous mating engagement with the exterior side surface of the adjacent bushing tube. Also, at least a substantially complete perimeter weld joins both the interior and exterior of each shaped end to the bushing tube.

Abstract: A fabricated control rod having a spacer with a “C” or “U-shaped” channel cross-section. The spacer also has a bushing tube welded to each of its ends. Each end of the spacer is shaped to have a substantially continuous mating engagement with the exterior side surface of the adjacent bushing tube. Also, at least a substantially complete perimeter weld joins both the interior and exterior of each shaped end to the bushing tube.