Both suspensions, plus the previously offered MTA23, are available with the company’s new optional lift kit. The company says the kit is a durable and reliable quick-response system that allows users of the MTA suspension system to efficiently raise select axles, which improves maneuverability and extends tire life. Available in painted or galvanized finishes, the lift kit is designed to attach easily and can be installed as original equipment or field retrofit.
Introduced in 2010, the MTA23 was the first member of the new suspension systems family. Meritor says that based on customer feedback, it has demonstrated improved durability and superior ride quality performance. “Our customers are delighted with the first model, the MTA23, and have been asking for the next family members to have a viable and reliable choice for all of their new vocational trailer specifications,” says Craig Frohock, general manager, Trailer Products, Meritor.
The two new models join the MTA23 to complete the company’s lineup of top-mount air ride suspension systems. They will be joined by new low-mount models in summer 2012. The entire family of suspensions is manufactured at the company’s production facility in Frankfort, Ky.
Meritor says the new lightweight suspensions feature:
• A patent-pending axle wrap design that provides a foundation for a secure and durable axle connection;
• Larger, more robust shock absorbers specifically tuned to the MTA suspension with a larger bore design that provides greater suspension control and more consistent tire contact with the ground, reducing tread wear, improving braking and enhancing handling; and
• Patented pivot bushing that absorbs road inputs for a softer ride, more cargo protection and reduced stress on the trailer’s structure, with patented steel interleaf shims in the bushing that provide added fore-aft stiffness for improved axle alignment, better tire wear and reduced roll steer.
The MTA trailer suspension system is integrated with Meritor trailer axles and Q Plus Cam Brakes. All are covered by the company’s five-year 500,000-mile warranty on structural components. Optional components include air disc brakes, automatic slack adjusters, the SteelLite X30 drum and lightweight hub and the Meritor Tire Inflation System (MTIS) by P.S.I.
