Abstract: A steer axle for a vehicle and a method of making the same involves forming portions of a steer axle to have a three sided design. Spring seats that wrap around two of the three sides are secured to the steer axle. Plates are secured to the spring seats. The plates extend over the third surface of the steer axle. Angled spring pads are located over the plates.

Abstract: An improved steering axle provides an improved interface between the steering knuckle kingpin and the axle. The axle includes distal ends, each formed into a boss with a central bore configured to receive the kingpin of a knuckle assembly. The boss has an improved structure that includes first and second axially extending and angularly spaced ribs each defining an axial portion having increased thickness. Each rib extends angularly from a location longitudinally outboard of the bore axis to a location longitudinally inboard of the bore axis. The boss provides increased rigidity in the area surrounding the kingpin, thereby improving retention of the kingpin and preventing motion between the kingpin and the boss.