PREVOST X3-45 COMMUTER User Manual

SECTION 16 : SUSPENSION
DOB 1300-1556 | X3-45 Commuter PA-1648 Maintenance Manual First release Oct 2020
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2. DESCRIPTION
The vehicle is provided with an air suspension
system. The system consists of air springs,
height control valves, radius rods, sway bars,
tripod and shock absorbers (Figure 1 to Figure
7). The system operation is fully automatic and
maintains a constant vehicle height regardless of
load, or load distribution.
The vehicle is also equipped with front kneeling
function to quickly lower the front end.
3. FRONT I-BEAM AXLE SUSPENSION
FIGURE 1: FRONT I-BEAM AXLE SUSPENSION 16105
3.1 AIR SPRINGS
The air spring bellows are made from a special
compound rubber molded to the proper contour
and dimensions. The entire vertical load of the
vehicle is supported by these springs. Each of
the three axles is provided with air springs that
are attached to the subframe and to the axles.
3.1.1 Inspection
1. Check operation of bellows.
2. Visually inspect bellows for evidence of
cracks, punctures, deterioration, or chafing.
Replace the bellows if any damage is
evident.
3. With the primary air system at normal
operating pressure (122 - 140 psi (841 - 965
kPa)), coat all suspension air line
connections and bellows mounting areas
with a water and soap solution. Bubbles will
indicate an air leak, and none is permissible.
Repair or replace defective parts.
FIGURE 2: AIR SPRING 16052
NOTE
If air spring is removed from vehicle, bellows
can be lightly inflated and submerged in water
to detect any leak
age. If any leakage is
detected, replace bellows.
WARNING
To prevent personal injury, do not apply more
than 10 psi (69 kPa) of air pressure to the
uninstalled air spring.
3.1.2 Removal
NOTE
Front suspension air springs can be removed
without removing the entire axle assembly.
1. Safely support vehicle at the recommended
body jacking points. To gain access to a
given air spring, the corresponding wheel
can be removed as follows:
a) Jack vehicle until the tire clears the
ground, and place safety supports
underneath body.
CAUTION
Only the recommended jacking points must be
used as outlined in Section 18, “Body”.
b) Support the axle with a suitable
hydraulic floor jack at the
recommended jacking points. Make
sure that the measurement between
the air spring mounting plates is
greater than the normal clearance
(normal ride height).
c) Remove wheel.

PREVOST X3-45 COMMUTER Specifications

General

Engine	Volvo D13
Transmission	Allison B500
Fuel Type	Diesel
Length	45 ft (13.7 m)
Width	102 in (2.6 m)
Horsepower	500 hp
GVWR	54, 000 lbs
Height	141 in