17730-241 15 Preventive Maintenance
AR2
™
Preventive Maintenance
Following appropriate inspection procedures is important to help ensure the proper maintenance
and operation of the AR2 heavy-duty suspension system and component parts function to their
highest efficiency. Look and replace any bent, cracked, worn or damaged parts. Hendrickson rec-
ommends the AR2 heavy-duty rear suspension is inspected at pre-delivery, the first 1,000 miles
(1,600 kilometers) of service and at the regular preventive maintenance intervals. Off-highway
and severe service operating conditions require more frequent inspections than on-highway ser-
vice operation. Inspection must include the following items and other components referenced in
this section.
Torque values shown in this publication apply only if Hendrickson supplied fasteners are used. If
non Hendrickson fasteners are used, follow the torque specification listed in the vehicle manufac-
turer’s service manual.
FIRST
Visual Inspection for proper assembly and function.
Check for all of the following and replace components as
necessary:
• Signs of unusual movement, loose or missing
components
• Signs of abrasive or adverse contact with other
components
• Damaged, or cracked parts
100 Miles
100 Hours
comes first
Inspection of fasteners for proper torque as
recommended in the Torque Specication section of
this publication with special attention to the following
suspension connections:
• Frame hanger to trailing arm connection
• Equalizing beam end connection
• Torque rods
• Saddle cap to trailing arm connection
Verication of the alignment of axles are within the
vehicle manufacturer’s tolerances
Verify proper ride height, refer to the Ride Height in the
Alignment & Adjustments section of this publication
Hendrickson recommends the use of Grade 8 bolts, Grade C locknuts and hardened washers for
all suspension component attachments.
■
Air spring — Look for chafing or any signs of spring or component damage. Ensure that the upper
bead plate is tight against the underside of the frame. Replace all worn or damaged parts.
■
Cross tube — Clean the cross tube and inspect it for cracks or excessive wear 8" to 10" from
each end where it enters into the equalizing beam center bushings. Use a straight edge to
check the straightness of the cross tube. If there is a doubt as to fracture, wear or straight-
ness, replacement is necessary.
■
Shock absorbers — Look for any signs of dents or leakage. Misting is not considered a leak.
See Shock Absorber Inspection in this section.