Abstract: Embodiments of a door module a vehicle door are described herein. In one exemplary embodiment, a door module for mounting to a vehicle door with a lower edge portion and a window opening with a base edge comprises a structural modular carrier panel of a monolithic one-piece construction. The carrier panel is sized such that when mounted to the vehicle door the panel extends substantially from the base edge of the window opening to a location on the door spaced from the lower edge portion of the door. The door module includes a window and window lifter that comprises at least two elongate window guide channels configured to guide a window panel and mounted to the structural modular panel such that lower ends of the elongate window guide channels extend substantially beyond the lower end of the carrier panel. The door module can also include an opening and closing mechanism that is mounted to the modular panel and comprises an interior handle, an exterior handle and a latch mechanism.

Abstract: A vehicle axle construction comprises a suspension for supporting the axle from first and second frame rail members. Elongated support members extend forwardly from respective locations along the frame rail members that are rearwardly of the axle and are clamped or otherwise coupled to the axle. A single pivot may be utilized to couple the respective rearmost end portions of the supports to the respective frame members. The forward ends of the supports may be coupled to respective air springs. Desirably, at least a portion of each air spring is positioned forwardly of the axle. In addition, at least one lateral stabilizer rigidifies the suspension. An alternative suspension utilizes leaf springs. A double acting rack-and-pinion steering mechanism may be rigidly coupled to the axle for use in steering the wheels of the vehicle.