AG380 use adds 400 more pounds of payload

Kenworth Truck Co's AG380 lightweight air suspension lets users haul up to 400 more pounds of freight, get a superior ride with extra roll stiffness, and not have to deal with maintenance.

This suspension can be specified on Kenworth's Class 8 line of over-the-road tractors for highway applications — up to 80,000 pounds (GCW) — with full production slated for June 2002.

The AG380 weighs about 650 pounds fully installed, or 200 to 400 pounds less than the trailing arm suspensions typically used on other Class 8 trucks. It also is lighter than most four-spring suspensions. This suspension received more than two years of ride, handling, stability, and durability testing on the road and in the lab before being brought to market.

Key components also underwent the equivalent of six million miles of road service during quality testing conducted in the lab at the Paccar Technical Center. Kenworth engineers designed the AG380 with about half the parts of other truck suspensions. In addition, the new suspension is maintenance-free with no lubrication points. For more details, contact Kenworth, PO Box 1000, Kirkland WA 98083-1000.