Hendrickson ComposiLite SC Axle

An updated ComposiLite SC steerable lift axle with suspension has reduced weight, a damage-resistant flexible tie rod, and is more compact. Hendrickson says the series will have five versions for specific applications and mounting methods on trucks, and trailer versions will also be available. ComposiLite axles are made from steel and aluminum parts and features the weight-saving fabricated components introduced on earlier models. Aluminum beams are shorter to reduce “packaging” space. A Compliant Tie Rod (CTR) is made of spring steel instead of cast metal; the rod flexes, then resumes its original shape when it meets obstructions instead of bending or breaking. The CTR system has a robust self-centering mechanism and passive-steer Ackerman geometry for improved “driver feel.” Weight savings for three models with capacities of 10,000, 13,500 and 20,000 pounds are 14, 69 and 125 pounds, respectively, compared to previous models.