Hendrickson has introduced the PRIMAAX EX system, an enhanced version of the PRIMAAX heavy-duty, vocational truck air suspension.

It's said to improve durability and performance while being light in weight. Refinements include enhanced joint integrity and durability, improved handling, increased air-spring capacity, greater disc brake compatibility, and improved resistance to torque rod bushing walk-out.

Launched in 2003, the PRIMAAX line is used in a variety of vocational and construction applications including concrete mixers, dump trucks, heavy-haul tractors, refuse vehicles, truck-mounted cranes, and logging trucks.

The new system features cast and shot-peened ductile iron support beams that integrate the attachment points for greater reliability. Hendrickson manufactures the beams and supplies them as an engineered sub-assembly to ensure control of product specs.

PRIMAAX EX geometry features a new frame-hanger and torque-rod configuration, said to provide increased roll stiffness and reduced roll steer for improved handling. In addition, suspension-induced driveline vibration is significantly reduced.

Expanded offerings of the longitudinal torque rods help extend bushing life and ease of serviceability while improving packaging compatibility with disc brakes.

The new suspension will be available at most major truck makers in capacities ranging from 23,000 to 26,000 lb for single-axle, 46,000 to 52,000 lb for tandem, and 69,000 to 78,000 lb for tridem applications.