Professional Documents
Culture Documents
PROCEDURE
Trailer Suspension Systems
SUBJECT: Alignment Procedures
LIT NO: L579
DATE: November 2017 REVISION: G
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Conventions Applied in this Document.................................................................................................... 2
General Service Notes............................................................................................................................ 2
During Service:............................................................................................................................................ 2
Important Safety Notices.............................................................................................................................. 2
Contacting Hendrickson............................................................................................................................... 4
Relative Literature........................................................................................................................................ 4
Preparing Trailer for Service.......................................................................................................................... 5
Tools And Equipment.............................................................................................................................. 5
TORX® Sockets............................................................................................................................................. 6
Pivot Connection - Frame Bracket........................................................................................................... 7
Pivot Connection - Welded Collar.................................................................................................................. 7
Pivot Connection - QUIK-ALIGN® ................................................................................................................... 7
Pivot Connection - Y-Beam..................................................................................................................... 8
Alignment Background........................................................................................................................... 9
Alignment Preparations........................................................................................................................ 12
Axle Alignment.................................................................................................................................... 13
Kingpin to Front Axle Alignment Check........................................................................................................ 13
Axle-Axle Alignment Check.......................................................................................................................... 16
Axle Alignment Adjustment.................................................................................................................. 18
QUIK-ALIGN® Axle Adjustment..................................................................................................................... 18
Welded Collar Axle Adjustment................................................................................................................... 20
CONNEX™-ST Axle Alignment.............................................................................................................. 22
CONNEX-ST Alignment Summary................................................................................................................ 22
Locking the Self‑Steer Axle.......................................................................................................................... 23
Check and Adjust Toe................................................................................................................................. 24
Pivot Connection Hardware Troubleshooting.......................................................................................... 26
QUIK-ALIGN® .............................................................................................................................................. 27
Appendix A: Axle Target Value Sample Calculation............................................................................... 29
Alignment Procedures
CONVENTIONS APPLIED IN THIS GENERAL SERVICE NOTES
DOCUMENT IMPORTANT: Special attention should be paid to the
This section explains the techniques used in this
information included in EXPLANATION OF
document to convey important information, safety
SIGNAL WORDS.
issues, how to contact Hendrickson and how to apply
hyperlinks.
Before you begin:
EXPLANATION OF SIGNAL WORDS Read, understand and comply with:
Hazard signal words (such as DANGER, WARNING or • All maintenance, service, installation and diagnostic
CAUTION) appear in various locations throughout this instructions and procedures for Hendrickson, the
publication. Information accented by one of these trailer manufacturer and the repair facility.
signal words must be observed at all times. Additional • All signal word (CAUTION, WARNING and DANGER)
notes are utilized to emphasize areas of procedural statements to help avoid personal injury or property
importance and provide suggestions for ease of repair. damage.
The following definitions comply with ANSI Z535.4 and • Vehicle manufacturer’s safety instructions when
indicate the use of safety signal words as they appear working on the vehicle.
throughout the publication.
• Vehicle manufacturer’s instructions for recommended
DANGER: INDICATES IMMEDIATE HAZARDS practices not described in this manual.
WHICH WILL RESULT IN SEVERE • All applicable governmental safety regulations.
PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
DURING SERVICE:
WARNING: Indicates hazards or unsafe practices • Work must be carried out by trained personnel.
which could result in severe personal
• Sudden release of brake chamber springs (e.g. the
injury or death.
spring brake part of the brake chamber or the brake
return spring) may cause injury.
CAUTION: Indicates a hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, could result in minor • Use recommended tools only.
or moderate injury. • Before releasing trailer back into service, perform
operational checks and test the trailer to make sure
NOTICE: Indicates hazards or unsafe practices brakes are working correctly.
which could result in damage to
machine or equipment. Hendrickson reserves the right to make changes and
improvements to its products and publications at any
IMPORTANT: An operating procedure, practice or
time. Consult the Hendrickson website
condition that is essential to emphasize.
(www.Hendrickson-intl.com) for the latest version of this
Safety alert symbol used to indicate manual.
a condition exists that may result in
personal injury or harm to individuals. It IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICES
must be applied to DANGER, WARNING Proper installation, maintenance, service and repair is
and CAUTION statements, which important to the reliable operation of the suspension
emphasize severity. system. The procedures recommended by Hendrickson
and described in this publication are methods of
LINKS performing inspection, maintenance, service and repair.
Links are identified by a dark grey line under the linked
text. Internal links allow the reader to jump to a heading, The warnings and cautions should be read carefully to
step or page in this document. External links open the help prevent personal injury and to assure that proper
website or document referenced. methods are used. Improper maintenance, service or
repair can cause damage to the vehicle and other
property, personal injury, an unsafe operating condition
or void the manufacturer’s warranty.
L579 G
2
Alignment Procedures
WARNING: DO NOT modify or rework parts. • Hendrickson recommends that
Use ONLY Hendrickson-authorized workers doing brake work should
replacement parts. Use of modified take steps to minimize exposure
or non-genuine replacement parts not to airborne brake lining particles.
authorized by Hendrickson may not Proper procedures to reduce
meet Hendrickson’s specifications. It exposure include:
can also result in failure of the part, –– Working in a well-ventilated
loss of vehicle control and possible area,
personal injury or property damage. –– Segregation of areas where
Do not modify parts without written brake work is done,
authorization from Hendrickson. –– Use of local filtered ventilation
WARNING: Always wear proper eye protection systems or use of enclosed
and other required personal cells with filtered vacuums.
protective equipment (PPE) when • Material Safety Data Sheets
performing vehicle maintenance, (MSDS) on this product, as
repair or service. Follow federal, state required by OSHA, are available
and local regulations as appropriate. online from Hendrickson at
www.hendrickson-intl.com/
WARNING: Solvent cleaners can be flammable,
TrailerLit.
poisonous and can cause burns. To
help avoid serious personal injury, CAUTION: A mechanic using a service
carefully follow the manufacturer’s procedure or tool which has not been
product instructions and guidelines recommended by Hendrickson must
and the following procedures: first satisfy himself that neither his
• Wear proper eye protection. safety nor the vehicle’s safety will
be jeopardized by the method or tool
• Wear clothing that protects your
selected. Individuals deviating in any
skin.
manner from the provided instructions
• Work in a well-ventilated area. assume all risks of consequential
personal injury or damage to
• DO NOT use gasoline or solvents
equipment.
that contain gasoline. Gasoline
can explode. NOTICE: When welding to or on the axle, take
• Hot solution tanks or alkaline every caution to prevent bearing
solutions must be used correctly. damage. When grounding welding
Follow the manufacturer’s equipment to axle, prevent current
recommended instructions and from passing through the wheel
guidelines carefully to help bearings.
prevent personal accident or
injury. A connection that places a wheel
bearing between the ground cable
WARNING: The following precautions and connection and the weld area can
considerations should be applied damage the bearing by electric
when handling brake lining: arcing.
• Compressed air or dry brushing
For more safety and precautionary statements, refer
should never be used for cleaning
to Hendrickson literature number T12007, available at
brake assemblies or work areas.
www.Hendrickson-intl.com/TrailerLit.
• Follow applicable shop, local,
state and federal safe practices for
working with and disposal of brake
lining materials.
L579 G
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Alignment Procedures
CONTACTING HENDRICKSON PHONE
Contact Hendrickson Trailer Technical Services for Contact Hendrickson directly in the United States at
technical assistance as needed. To do so, several 866‑RIDEAIR (743‑3247). From the menu, select:
options are available. • Technical Services/Warranty for technical
information.
Prior to contacting Technical Services, it is best to
• Other selections include:
have the following information about the vehicle and
Hendrickson suspension available (all that apply): −− Aftermarket Sales for replacement parts
information and ordering.
• Suspension ID Tag information (Refer to Hendrickson
−− Original Equipment Sales for parts inquiries and
literature number L977 Trailer Suspension and Axle
ordering for trailer manufacturers.
ID Guide, page 2 for tag location and details):
−− Suspension model number EMAIL
−− Suspension serial number For Hendrickson Trailer Technical Services, use the
−− Approximate number of suspension miles. following e-mail address:
• Vehicle VIN number. Refer to trailer OEM manual for
VIN plate location. HTTS@Hendrickson-intl.com
−− Trailer Type (van, reefer, flat bed, etc.) RELATIVE LITERATURE
−− Manufacturer If you suspect your version of this or any other
−− VIN (vehicle identification number) Hendrickson manual is not “up-to-date”, the most
−− In-service date 1 current version is free online at:
• If applicable, description of the system problem, part www.Hendrickson-intl.com/TrailerLit
number and/or part description of the reported non-
functioning part. Available Hendrickson documentation can be viewed or
−− Date of problem downloaded from this site.
−− Where applicable: location of problem on
suspension / trailer (e.g., road side, front axle, All Hendrickson online documentation is in PDF format
curb side rear, etc.) that requires PDF reader software to open. A free
application is downloadable from Adobe’s home page
−− Symptoms-
(http://get.adobe.com/reader/).
»» Systems, components or function affected by
problem. Other relative literature may include:
»» When does problem occur?
»» How often does the problem occur? NAME DESCRIPTION
»» Etc. B31 Torque Specifications
• What troubleshooting and/or measurements have L427 Bushing Replacement Procedure
been performed? L459 Checking Trailer Ride Height
• What service data literature do you have or need? L577 HT™ Series Suspension Installation Procedures
• Digital photos of suspension and damaged areas. L583 Comprehensive Warranty Statement
• Special application approval documentation L785 Pre-aligned VANTRAAX® Warranty Update
(if applicable). L874 Pre-aligned VANTRAAX Alignment Verification
Procedure
L926 Factory-torqued Curbside Pivot Connection
L1072 QUIK-ALIGN® Pivot Connection Fastener Information
T62001 Self‑steer Axle Installation and Maintenance
Procedures
1
If the in-service date is unknown or not available, the vehicle date of
manufacture can be substituted.
L579 G
4
Alignment Procedures
PREPARING TRAILER FOR SERVICE TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
NOTE: DO NOT service a suspension or any The following tools and equipment are necessary to
components that is under warranty without complete the procedure within this publication:
first contacting Hendrickson Technical Services. • For KINGPIN TO FRONT AXLE ALIGNMENT CHECK on
Refer to CONTACTING HENDRICKSON on page 13:
page 4 for details. −− 50‑foot (minimum) steel tape measure with 1/32
inch increments .
WARNING: To prevent serious eye injury, always
−− Tape tensioning (spring) device required for
wear safety glasses when performing
measurements with tape measure. Consisting of:
trailer maintenance and service.
»» Fish (or engineering) scale, spring-loaded
»» Clamp - grips tape measure for use with fish
scale.
»» String - used to fasten the clamp to the fish
scale.
−− Kingpin adapter or kingpin extender (pogo stick).
−− Level - used to plumb the kingpin extender.
−− Wheel-end (or spindle) extenders, 2 minimum.
• For AXLE-AXLE ALIGNMENT CHECK on page 16:
Trammel bar (preferred) or 12‑foot (minimum) steel
tape measure with 1/32 inch increments .
• Impact wrench with a minimum torque capability of
600 ft. lbs. (813 Nm).
• For QUIK-ALIGN® Pivot Bolt Kits:
−− E20 TORX® socket; 1 inch drive recommended.
Figure 1: Trailer preparation
−− 17/16 inch box end wrench.
Before beginning any work on a trailer suspension −− 1/2 inch drive breaker bar or ratchet.
system, the following steps help ensure conditions are • For all HT® Series with welded collar pivot bolt kits:
safe. Refer to GENERAL SERVICE NOTES on page 2.
−− 111/16 inch shallow impact socket.
1. Park the trailer on a level, debris-free surface. −− 111/16 inch box end wrench.
• Tire changing equipment (as needed).
2. Set the trailer parking brakes.
• Tire pressure gauge.
3. To prevent the trailer from moving, chock the • Rubber mallet.
wheels of an axle not being raised.
• 3/8 inch pin punch (for Hendrickson self-steer axle).
4. Exhaust the air from the trailer suspension.
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5
Alignment Procedures
TORX® SOCKETS Sleeve Socket
Hendrickson offers four TORX sockets (Table 2) that may
be used on the shear-type bolt during alignment. E20
and E22 TORX sockets are also available from other
vendors.
TORX® DRIVE PIVOT COMMENTS
SOCKET SIZE SIZE CONNECTION
Figure 3: 1 inch drive E20 TORX socket with sleeve (A-25119)
For occasional use
E20 (not recommended
(part # 3
/4" QUIK-ALIGN® for high-volume For QUIK-ALIGN style pivot connections in high volume
A-24303) trailer production trailer production and service facilities, Hendrickson
environments) recommends the one‑inch drive E20 TORX socket
E20 For medium-duty (Table 2), with sleeve (Figure 3). The sleeve helps
(part # 1" QUIK-ALIGN use (dealers, repair support the tool by riding over the entire head of the
A-24536) facilities, etc.) shear bolt. It also provides greater operator control
For high-volume at the moment of shear by preventing the heavy tool
E20 with trailer production from veering. The operator can rest the tool on the bolt
sleeve environments or
(part # 1" QUIK-ALIGN during the entire operation resulting in greater control
manufacturing facilities.
A-25119) The sleeve provides of socket-to-bolt engagement, reduced fatigue and
greater operator control. consistently torqued pivot connections.
Table 2: Hendrickson E20 TORX socket summary 2.156
.125 x 45°
All dimensions ¼-20 Chamfer
are in inches Drill & tap x2
(one side only)
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Alignment Procedures
PIVOT CONNECTION - FRAME BRACKET For Y-beam suspensions, refer to PIVOT CONNECTION -
Hendrickson suspensions are equipped with either Y-BEAM on page 8.
QUIK-ALIGN® or welded-collar style pivot connections.
The following information is for suspensions with a PIVOT CONNECTION - WELDED COLLAR
frame bracket. Huck
fastener
CAUTION: DO NOT apply anti-seize compound
or additional lubricant to pivot
connection hardware. A dry lubricant
coating has been applied to the
threads of the pivot connection bolt
and nut. Do not allow undercoating,
paint, surface coatings, or any other Back view Side view
commonly used compounds to contact
the threads of the pivot connection Heavy hex
fasteners. These compounds can cap screw
act like a lubricant, reducing the and nut
friction between the threads of
the nut and bolt. This can lead to
overtightened fasteners, unpredictable
pivot connection clamp loads and
unreliable axle alignments. Threads
should be clean, dry and free of Figure 6: Welded Collar pivot connection
contamination, as supplied by
Hendrickson. The welded collar style pivot connection is clamped
together by either a Huck® Fastener or a 11/8 inch heavy
CAUTION: DO NOT apply undercoating, paint hex cap screw and nut (Figure 6). After the alignment
or other surface coating to the is completed, the entire circumference of both inboard
suspension and frame brackets until and outboard collars is welded to the frame bracket. The
after completing the alignment. These nut is welded to the 11/8 inch heavy hex cap screw (if
products will act as a lubricant to used instead of the Huck fastener).
contaminate and compromise the
fastener clamp load, resulting in a To realign this style of pivot connection, the collar welds
loose connection or worse. must be removed so the pivot joint can be repositioned.
Square
Inside mask for alignment
bushing inner hole
metal contact
Frame bracket
Outer mask
for collars
Flanged eccentric collar
Figure 5: Paint mask areas (example for QUIK-ALIGN®)
Hardened flat washer
TORQ-RITE® Nut
With frame brackets or Y-beams, the procedures for
checking and adjusting trailer axle alignment is the Figure 7: Frame bracket QUIK-ALIGN pivot connection
same. However, applicable pivot connection hardware
kits must be used. Refer to applicable parts catalogs
listed at www.hendrickson-intl.com.
L579 G
7
Alignment Procedures
Square alignment hole PIVOT CONNECTION - Y-BEAM
Alignment Guide HT™ Series Y-beam suspensions differ from other
0° to +45°
(forward suspension beams because they do not use a frame
movement) bracket. The fork or “Y” of the beam connects directly to
the trailer frame using the bushing tube sleeve (Figure 9
0° to +45° and Figure 10, item 1).
(rearward
movement)
Trailer
1 frame
2 XXX
XXXXXX
XX
XX
XX
XX
X
rail
XX
XX
XXXXXXXXXX
XX
Forward Rearward
XX
XX
XX
XXXX
XXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
movement movement
XXXXXXXXXX
X
XX
4
7
L579 G
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Alignment Procedures
Scrub angle
L579 G
9
Alignment Procedures
Axle track
Nominal center-to-
center distance of
dual tires, varies with
0.218" wheel equipment. 0.188"
(7/32") (3/16")
(5.5 mm) (4.8 mm)
CL
0° α α 0°
18"
(457 mm)
18" wheel-end
extender
0.094" (3/32")
(2.4 mm)
L579 G
10
Alignment Procedures
spindle do you measure to? What point on the spindle With the two previously described clarifications in mind,
defines axle track? A more practical approach is to Hendrickson continues to recommend using the ±0.1
use wheel-end extenders to provide a more accurate degree thrust angle alignment specification for initial
and consistent measurement point (more wheel- alignments, realizing that, due to measurement error,
end extender information is presented later in this the actual thrust angle may be in the ±0.2 degree
document). range. The ±0.2 degree range complies with most tire
manufacturers’ recommendations for an allowable
The second clarification deals with measurement trailer axle thrust angle. Hendrickson also recommends
limitation. The ±0.1 degrees of thrust angle is difficult using a steel tape measure with 1/32 inch graduations,
to achieve because of measurement limitations. No a tape tensioning device and wheel-end extenders to
currently existing alignment measurement method allow for greater measurement accuracy. Subsequent
can consistently provide an alignment within this ±0.1 alignment verification measurements should use the
degree tolerance. The reason for this is measurement ±0.2 degree thrust angle range recommended by most
error. tire manufacturers.
PRECISION/ PRECISION/
TOLERANCE TOLERANCE
MEASUREMENT METHOD RATIO RATIO
(±0.1°) (±0.2°)
Tape measure to rim 330% 165%
Laser devices 1
309% 155%
/16" graduated tape measure
1
207% 104%
to wheel-end extenders
/32" graduated tape measure
1
148% 74%
to wheel-end extenders
Extensometer 64% 32%
1 Per SAE technical paper 933046
L579 G
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Alignment Procedures
ALIGNMENT PREPARATIONS PROPERLY POSITION THE TRAILER
The primary purpose for following the procedures in Trailer positioning is important during alignment. The
this document is to ensure all axles are parallel to one trailer suspension must be in a “relaxed” state without
another and perpendicular to the trailer frame. Pivot any pre-load applied to the TRI‑FUNCTIONAL® Bushings.
connection positioning is not the only factor that can IMPORTANT: A pre-loaded bushing will complicate
influence the parallelism between axles. A thorough the axle alignment process by providing
inspection of the trailer should be performed prior to inaccurate measurement data. Also, a
alignment to determine tire condition and if damage seemingly aligned axle that contains
or worn components exist (see Hendrickson literature an unknowingly compressed bushing
number L578 Preventive Maintenance Guide). The may cause tracking problems and/
trailer should be set as close as possible to normal or premature tire wear. To avoid these
driving conditions. conditions, perform the proper trailer
positioning procedure as follows.
SELECT THE ALIGNMENT AREA
The alignment should be performed on a flat, level, Read entire procedure before
debris-free surface. performing.
Axle Center 5. Ease the trailer to a stop using only the tractor
brakes, thus relieving bushing pre-load.
Figure 15: Ride height defined
IMPORTANT: Keep trailer parking brakes disengaged
The suspension must be at its designed ride height to allow wheel rotation while positioning
when checking or performing an axle alignment. A axle fore and aft.
suspension’s designed ride height (Figure 15 and listed
NOTE: For sliders, this also forces slider locking pins to
on the original suspension ID tag) is defined as the
rear of the body rail holes, removing locking pin
distance from the suspension mounting surface (the
slack and relieving bushing pre-load.
bottom of the trailer frame or slider box) to the center
of the axle, with air applied. For complete instructions 6. Lower trailer landing legs so they contact the
on determining and setting ride height, refer to ground. Uncouple trailer from the tractor and apply
Hendrickson literature number L459 Checking Trailer shop air to trailer emergency glad hand to release
Ride Height. parking brakes.
L579 G
12
Alignment Procedures
SET DESIGNED KINGPIN HEIGHT AXLE ALIGNMENT
Set the front of the trailer to its designed kingpin height: If necessary, refer to ALIGNMENT BACKGROUND
on page 9 and ALIGNMENT PREPARATIONS on
1. Determine what the designed kingpin height page 12 before performing these axle alignment
should be. Check the trailer ID tag on the trailer procedures.
front bulkhead or contact the trailer manufacturer
for the designed kingpin height. KINGPIN TO FRONT AXLE ALIGNMENT CHECK
This would be the thrust angle alignment performed on
the front (non-steer) axle. If a lift axle, ensure axle is in
the down position.
Kingpin
2. Using a tape measure, determine the current trailer 1. From a position at the front of the trailer (Figure 17),
kingpin height by measuring from the ground to the sight along a line under the trailer from the kingpin
kingpin mounting plate (Figure 16). to each end of the front axle.
L579 G
13
Alignment Procedures
NOTE: A wide range of wheel-end extenders are
available from various companies, ranging
from simple fixtures to complex devices. Wheel-
end extenders are designed to ease alignment
by eliminating the need to remove the outer
wheel when checking or aligning axles. Once
in place, wheel-end extenders position axle
reference points far enough outside the trailer
to allow the measuring tape to clear tires when
measuring “A” and “B” dimensions from the
kingpin. Some wheel-end extenders require
contact with the spindle plug through the hub
cap oil fill hole. Others offer a more universal
mount, fitting over the entire hub. Select wheel-
Figure 19: Kingpin extender end extenders that work best with your style of
B. If this sightline is obstructed, then the kingpin hubs.
extender or pogo stick (Figure 19) must IMPORTANT: Make sure the wheel-end extenders
be used to lower the connection for the are a matched pair and are properly
measurement in Step 5. installed. Failure to properly install a
matched pair of wheel-end extenders
NOTE: Follow manufacturer’s instructions to install will significantly reduce the accuracy of
and align the kingpin extender. The extender the alignment measurement.
typically includes a leveling bubble to ensure
vertical alignment. Measure this distance
(wheel-end
extender
2. Place kingpin adapter (Figure 18) or kingpin length)
extender (Figure 19) onto the kingpin.
Face of
wheel
mounting
Figure 21: Measuring wheel-end extender length
L579 G
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Alignment Procedures
FRONT AXLE TARGET VALUES 1,2 EXAMPLE C: Kingpin-front axle target value:
Track Length: 71.5 Suppose the measured length of your wheel-
Kingpin-to-Axle 2: 48 44 40 36 32 28 24 20 16 12 end extender is 18 inches and your trailer has a
12 77.5 inch axle track. First, find the 18 inch row in
5/32
13
14
the 77.5 inch section of the table. Then, find the
column for a 40‑foot kingpin-to-axle distance and
Wheel Extender Length
15
16 read down the column. The value shown where
17 18 inch wheel-end extender length and 40‑foot
18
3/16 kingpin-to-axle meet is 3/16 inch (See Figure 13),
19 which is the front axle target value. This front axle
20
21
target value will be required for a comparison in
22 Step 6.
23
7/32 NOTE: Axle track can be read from the suspension
24
Track Length: 77.5 model identification tag, found on the inside
Kingpin-to-Axle 2: 48 44 40 36 32 28 24 20 16 12 surface of the curbside beam (INTRAAX®
12 5/32
suspensions) or on the roadside slider box side
13
14 rail above the front frame bracket (VANTRAAX®
Wheel Extender Length
15
16
17
18
19 Figure 22: Using tape tension device (fish scale)
20
7/32 C
21
22 Kingpin
23
24
1 The kingpin-front axle (or thrust angle) target values presented in this table
have been pre-calculated for your convenience. To see the steps involved A
in this process and an example of front (non-steer) axle target value
Front Axle
on page 29.
2 Kingpin-to-axle distance values are in feet. All others are in inches.
B
Table 5: Kingpin-front axle target values
L579 G
15
Alignment Procedures
EXAMPLE D: Calculating front axle measured value:
Suppose distance “A” was measured to be 4201/8
inches and distance “B” was measured to be
42011/16 inches. Subtracting yields this difference:
42011/16" - 4201/8" = 9/16"
IMPORTANT: If adjustment is required for the front NOTE: If four wheel-end extenders are available
non-steer axle, all other axles will likely (Figure 23), install a second pair on each axle
require adjustment. to be measured for C and D, reference to front
axle. Otherwise wheel-end extenders need
B. If the difference between the “A” and “B” to be removed and reinstalled to wheel ends
measurements is smaller than or equal to the on one side, then the other, to perform the
target value, the axle is within specification and measurements.
no alignment is necessary.
ii. Measure wheel-end extender length from
the face of the wheel mounting to the tip
of the wheel-end extender (Figure 20 on
page 14).
L579 G
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Alignment Procedures
AXLE TRACK 11. Compare the difference with the axle target value
WHEEL-END
EXTENDER LENGTH 71.5" 77.5"
obtained in Step 8, method A or B.
12" 3
/32" 3
/32" A. If the difference between the “C” and “D”
13" 3
/32" 3
/32" measurements is larger than the target
value, the axle must be adjusted to bring this
14" 3
/32" 3
/32"
difference within the target value. Go to AXLE
15" 3
/32" 3
/32" ALIGNMENT ADJUSTMENT on page 18 to
16" 3
/32" 3
/32" adjust pivot connection for scrub angle.
17" 3
/32" 3
/32"
B. If the difference between the “C” and “D”
18" 3
/32" 3
/32" measurements is smaller than or equal to the
19" 3
/32" 3
/32" target value, the axle is within specification and
20" 3
/32" 3
/32" no adjustments are required.
21" 3
/32" 3
/32" On trailers equipped with more than two axles,
22" 3
/32" 3
/32" repeat this procedure to measure and, if necessary,
23" 3
/32" 1
/8 " adjust all other axles to the front axle (Figure 23, C
and D) to prevent inaccuracies.
24" 3
/32" 1
/8 "
1 The scrub angle target values presented in this table have been IMPORTANT: For self‑steer axle-axle alignment, first
pre-calculated for your convenience. To see the steps involved in
this process and an example of axle target value calculation, refer to
refer to CONNEX™-ST AXLE ALIGNMENT
APPENDIX A: AXLE TARGET VALUE SAMPLE CALCULATION on page 29 on page 22.
1
Example E - Axle-axle target when using wheel-end extenders:
Suppose the measured length of your wheel-end extender is 18 inches
and your trailer has a 77.5 inch axle track.
L579 G
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Alignment Procedures
AXLE ALIGNMENT ADJUSTMENT CAUTION: The pivot bolt and nut are not reusable.
A new shear-type bolt and hex nut
CAUTION: DO NOT apply undercoating, paint must be installed and sheared to
or other surface coating to the achieve the proper pivot connection
suspension and frame brackets until torque and clamp force. See Figure 36
after completing the alignment. Mask on page 26.
as shown in Figure 5 on page 7.
2. Install a new shear-type bolt, TORQ-RITE® Nut
QUIK-ALIGN® AXLE ADJUSTMENT and hardened flat washers into the axle pivot
If necessary, refer to PIVOT CONNECTION - QUIK-ALIGN® connection to be adjusted, but do not fully tighten
on page 7. at this time. The pivot connection fasteners should
be tight enough to hold the flanged eccentric collar
In June 2006, Hendrickson began factory-torquing in place between the alignment guides and flat
curbside QUIK-ALIGN pivot connections on all against the frame bracket, but loose enough to
VANTRAAX® slider suspension systems.“Factory- permit the hardened flat washers to rotate freely.
torquing” simply means the curbside pivot connection See Figure 36 on page 26.
is aligned in the center of its adjustment range
(Figure 8 on page 8) and tightened to the proper CAUTION: DO NOT APPLY anti-seize compound
torque before the suspension leaves the Hendrickson or additional lubricant to pivot
facility. Therefore the curbside pivot connection on all connection hardware. A dry lubricant
VANTRAAX slider axles should not require any attention. coating has been applied to the
threads of the pivot connection bolt
Alignment will be performed using the roadside and nut. Do not allow undercoating,
pivot connection only. For more information, refer to paint, surface coatings, or any other
Hendrickson literature number L926 Factory-torqued commonly used compounds to contact
Curbside Pivot Connection. the threads of the pivot connection
fasteners. These compounds can
If your suspension is a VANTRAAX factory-torqued act like a lubricant, reducing the
model, perform the alignment using the roadside pivot friction between the threads of
connections in the following procedures. If needed, the nut and bolt. This can lead to
curbside pivot connection can be adjusted. overtightened fasteners, unpredictable
pivot connection clamp loads and
For all other models, neither roadside or curbside unreliable axle alignments. Threads
pivot connections are pre-torqued. Perform the should be clean, dry and free of
alignment using both pivot connections in the following contamination, as supplied by
procedures. Hendrickson.
L579 G
18
Alignment Procedures
IMPORTANT: The tapping allows the concentric and
12 o’clock
position eccentric collars to move and adjust
in unison. If the collars do not move
Adjustment and adjust in unison, the concentric
range (±45°) collar may wedge against the frame
bracket (Figure 36‑B on page 26),
causing an inaccurate alignment and
an improper pivot connection that could
potentially loosen. If this condition
occurs during the alignment procedure,
refer to the “wedged collar” information
in PIVOT CONNECTION HARDWARE
Flanged Square
eccentric collar alignment TROUBLESHOOTING on page 26.
hole
NOTE: Adjust the axle forward by rotating the collar
Figure 25: Eccentric collar orientation details clockwise or adjust the axle rearward by
rotating the collar counterclockwise.
3. Inspect the orientation of the square alignment
hole in the flanged eccentric collar (Figure 25). The IMPORTANT: There is no change in axle adjustment
square alignment hole must be at the 12 o’clock when the flanged eccentric collar is
position, which is the middle of the alignment rotated beyond 45 degrees from the 12
adjustment range. o’clock position in either the fore or aft
If the square alignment hole is not at the 12 direction.
o’clock position, insert a 1/2 inch breaker bar into
the square alignment hole in the flanged eccentric TIGHTENING PIVOT CONNECTION
collar and rotate the collar until the square hole is If necessary, refer to TORX® SOCKETS on page 6.
at the 12 o’clock position. 1. Visually inspect the eccentric and concentric
4. Recheck applicable KINGPIN TO FRONT AXLE collars on the pivot connection to ensure they are
ALIGNMENT CHECK, STEP 5 ON PAGE 16, or AXLE- in place between the alignment guides and flat
AXLE ALIGNMENT CHECK, step 8 on page 16, to against the frame bracket.
each wheel-end extender pointer. If a collar is wedged or raised, tap on the concentric
A. If the axle is within target values, advance to collar (on the inboard side of the frame bracket)
TIGHTENING PIVOT CONNECTION. with a rubber mallet until it lays flat.
B. If adjustment is still required, insert a 1/2 inch 2. Hand tighten pivot connection fasteners until
breaker bar (Figure 8 on page 8) into the hardened flat washers do not rotate freely.
square alignment hole in one of the flanged
3. Repeat Step 4 measurements.
eccentric collars and continue to next step.
A. If the measurement is not within target value,
5. While rotating the flanged eccentric collar (on the return to Step 5.
outboard side of the frame bracket), tap on the
flanged concentric collar (on the inboard side of B. If the measurement is within the target value,
the frame bracket) with a rubber mallet. proceed to next step.
L579 G
19
Alignment Procedures
4. Using an E20 TORX® socket, tighten the shear- WELDED COLLAR AXLE ADJUSTMENT
type bolt on the front axle pivot connection until If an axle with a welded collar pivot connection is found
the TORX head shears off. This ensures the proper to be out of the acceptable alignment specification, it
torque of 550±45 ft. lbs. (750±50 Nm). must be realigned as follows:
CAUTION: An improperly torqued pivot 1. Select one side of the axle and carefully grind or
connection can result in injury and/or cut the welds securing the inboard and outboard
property damage. alignment collars to the frame bracket.
Anyone who assembles or IMPORTANT: DO NOT remove the 11/8 inch heavy hex
reassembles pivot connections cap screw and nut or Huck® Fastener.
(OEMs, dealers, repair facilities, etc.) Axle alignment with the welded collar
is responsible for proper installation style pivot connection does not require
of the shear-type bolt. pivot joint disassembly.
Alignment
collars
L579 G
20
Alignment Procedures
L579 G
21
Alignment Procedures
CONNEX™-ST AXLE ALIGNMENT CONNEX-ST ALIGNMENT SUMMARY
Alignment should be performed only after steps are
taken to ensure the self‑steer spindles and wheels are IMPORTANT: Although toe is independent of axle
properly aligned with axle center and toe is correct. If alignment, it should be verified and
so, AXLE-AXLE ALIGNMENT CHECK on page 16 can be checked before performing axle-axle
used to align a self‑steer axle. alignment.
C
IMPORTANT: A self‑steer axle must not be used as Kingpin
the primary front most axle for axle-axle
alignment in these procedures (see
Figure 28).
non-steer axle
A
Steer axle
Front
Before getting started, ensure:
B
A. Tires are the same size, air pressure and tread
pattern.
B. Hubs, drums and brakes are identical. D
C. All wheel-end components are identical for
Figure 28: Self‑steer axle alignment measurements
both left and right side.
D. All suspension bushings and components To properly align the self-steer axle, perform these
are Hendrickson Genuine Parts, correctly procedures in this order:
assembled, adjusted, in good condition and
functioning properly. Refer to Hendrickson 1. If not already done, check and align the front (non-
literature number B106 Pivot Bushing steer) axle thrust angle (Figure 28, A=B) according
Inspection Procedure. to KINGPIN TO FRONT AXLE ALIGNMENT CHECK on
page 13.
E. No lateral or fore-aft movement in kingpin.
2. Lock the sellf-steer axle following LOCKING THE
F. Lubricate as needed per decal T60001.
SELF‑STEER AXLE on page 23.
If issues exist, refer to T62001 CONNEX-ST Self‑steer
Axle Maintenance Procedures. For recommended 3. CHECK AND ADJUST TOE on page 24.
suspension inspection and lubrication, refer to 4. Follow AXLE-AXLE ALIGNMENT CHECK on
L578 Preventive Maintenance Guide. page 16 (Figure 28, C=D) and ensure it is within
IMPORTANT: Corrections must be made before specifications listed in Table 5 on page 15.
performing CONNEX-ST axle alignment 5. If adjustment to alignment is required, follow QUIK-
checks or adjustments. ALIGN® AXLE ADJUSTMENT on page 18.
6. Remove dowel pin from centering lock hole.
L579 G
22
Alignment Procedures
LOCKING THE SELF‑STEER AXLE 4. Inspect to ensure the following:
A. There is no damage to lock-straight
During alignment or adjustment of the self‑steer axle,
mechanism or other suspension components.
the lock‑straight assembly (Figure 30) is used to lock
the tie rod in the center position while the wheels are B. No excess wear at the four lever arm contact
checked and/or adjusted to point straight forward on points (Figure 30) and pivot points.
the trailer, with toe. C. All four contact points (Figure 30) have no
gaps.
D. Measure to ensure, in Figure 31, R1=R2±0.09
inch (2.3 mm).
3. Center wheels and insert a 3/8 inch pin punch (or Axle
equivalent) into manual centering lock holes, as Chamber
Locking centering lock hole
shown in Figure 29. clamp
(x4)
IMPORTANT: Using the manual centering lock hole,
it is not necessary to air up the lock- Tie rod
Tie rod washer
straight actuator or chamber. Lock‑straight chamber
L579 G
23
Alignment Procedures
CHECK AND ADJUST TOE 6. Ensure the trailer is at the designed ride height.
A proper toe setting is important to ensure wheel Refer to Hendrickson literature number L459
stability and minimize scrubbing of the tires. Checking Trailer Ride Height.
TOE
AXLE
LOAD Inch mm
+0.06 +1.5
Unloaded 0.625 15.88
-0.0 -0.0
Toe-in = “X” smaller than “Y”
Toe-out = “X” larger than “Y”
IMPORTANT: toe-out (negative toe) is not allowed.
Locking clamps Painted line
Table 7: Recommended Toe
Y
Figure 32: Toe Measurements 8. Subtract X from Y. The specification for toe is listed
(bottom view) in Table 7.
1. Raise axle until both tires clear the surface. A. If toe is negative (toe-out) or not within
specification, continue with the next step.
2. If not done so, perform LOCKING THE SELF‑STEER
AXLE on page 23. B. If toe is positive (toe-in) and within the
specified tolerance, no adjustment is required.
IMPORTANT: If with dual wheels, measure toe Go to Step 13.
between the center tread of inner tires.
9. Raise axle until both tires are off the surface.
3. While rotating wheel, paint a line around the center
of the tire tread, full circle (Figure 32). 10. Loosen all tie rod locking clamps Figure 32. Skip
this step if already loose.
4. Rotate wheel and scribe a narrow consistently
centered line all the way around in the painted line NOTE: If properly positioned, tie rod washers
on the tire tread. This will aid in the measurement of (Figure 30 on page 23) should maintain
“X” and “Y”. wheel center position after clamps are
loosened. These washers are typically tack
5. Lower wheels back to the surface and apply normal welded in position during initial suspension
equalized load on the axle. installation or when replacing a tie rod
assembly.
Spindle center Scribed line
11. Rotate the tie rod to correct toe-in.
12. Repeat the procedure from Step 5 until the desired
Toe-in value (specified in Table 7) is reached.
13. If toe adjustments were made, ensure all clamps
Trammel bar are properly tightened, refer to TIGHTENING TIE ROD
CLAMPS on page 25.
Figure 33: Measuring X and Y dimensions
14. Remove dowel pin from centering lock hole.
15. Restore lock-straight mechanism and suspension
to normal operation.
L579 G
24
Alignment Procedures
TIGHTENING TIE ROD CLAMPS
Tie rod
end clamp
NOTICE: The clamp and bolt must be orientated as shown to avoid
interference among moving parts.
Figure 34: Tie rod end clamp orientation
Tie rod
bracket
Temporary
shim
top & bottom
Figure 35: Aligning tie rod lock plate
L579 G
25
Alignment Procedures
PIVOT CONNECTION HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTING
Frame bracket Alignment guide
Eccentric collar
®
TORQ-RITE Nut
Alignment guide
Shear-type bolt (shown unsheared,
before final pivot connection tightening
Concentric collar
L579 G
26
Alignment Procedures
QUIK-ALIGN® WEDGED PIVOT-CONNECTION HARDWARE
(NOT FLAT AGAINST FRAME BRACKET)
RAISED ECCENTRIC COLLAR
Appearance
Appearance The pivot-connection hardware (collars, washers, etc.)
The eccentric collar is not flat against the frame bracket; is not flat against the frame bracket. The pivot bolt and
it is resting on an alignment guide. However, the shear- collars are “cockeyed” and not in their proper positions
type bolt is properly positioned and the concentric (Figure 36‑B, page 26).
collar is flat against the frame bracket (Figure 36‑C,
page 26). Causes
While being adjusted, the inboard collar did not move in
Causes unison with the outboard collar.
When installing the TORQ-RITE® Nut on the shear-type
bolt, the nut was not tightened sufficiently. Initially, the Results
pivot connection fasteners must be tight enough to hold An inaccurate alignment and an improper pivot
the eccentric collar in place between the alignment connection that could potentially loosen.
guides and flat against the frame bracket, but loose
enough to permit the hardened flat washers to rotate Solutions
freely. The loose nut allowed the eccentric collar to Tap on the inboard collar with a rubber mallet while
move freely and work its way onto an alignment guide. rotating the outboard collar.
L579 G
27
Alignment Procedures
LOOSE PIVOT CONNECTION
Appearance
Refer to Figure 38 and Figure 39. The pivot bolt appears
to be loose and the frame bracket side material is
polished or surface coating is smudged from collar
movement, or worse.
Figure 37: Shear style pivot bolt
(Shown before and after shearing)
Causes
The most likely cause is a loose pivot connection, Shifted
possibly due to reasons defined in Figure 36 or: alignment collar
Solutions
Replace frame bracket and pivot connection hardware.
If necessary, replace bushings.
L579 G
28
Alignment Procedures
Appendix A: AXLE TARGET VALUE 2. For the front axle, multiply this width by 0.001751.
SAMPLE CALCULATION The resulting product is the front axle target value.
Determine both axle target values as follows:
EXAMPLE E: Calculating thrust angle target value,
sine=0.1°:
Suppose the point-to-point width of the wheel-end
extenders is 122.625 inches. Multiplying this by the
0.00175 constant produces:
Front
axle Axle
target target 122.625" × 0.00175 = ±0.215"
value value
This provides the front axle (thrust angle) target
value.
Point-to-point
width
Wheel-end
Face of extender length
wheel
mounting
Wheel face-to-
face distance
L579 G
29
Alignment Procedures
NOTES:
L579 G
30
Alignment Procedures
L579 G
31
Call Hendrickson at 866.RIDEAIR (743.3247) for additional information.
TRAILER COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SYSTEMS Hendrickson Canada Hendrickson Mexicana
2070 Industrial Place SE 250 Chrysler Drive, Unit #3 Circuito El Marqués Sur #29
Canton, OH 44707-2641 USA Brampton, ON Canada L6S 6B6 Parque Industrial El Marqués
866.RIDEAIR (743.3247) 800.668.5360 Pob. El Colorado, Municipio El Marqués,
www.hendrickson-intl.com 330.489.0045 • Fax 800.696.4416 905.789.1030 • Fax 905.789.1033 Querétaro, México C.P. 76246
+52 (442) 296.3600 • Fax +52 (442) 296.3601
L579 Rev G 11-17 ECN 30139 Rev F 12-15 ECN 24107 Rev E 05-14 ECN 22950 Rev D 04-13 ECN 21772 Rev C 06-07
Information contained in this literature was accurate at the time of publication. Product changes may have been made after the copyright date that are not reflected. © 2017 Hendrickson USA, L.L.C. All Rights Reserved Printed in United States of America