Weweler system in UK t a la i r e h n ' t te m l
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• Phoenix Truck and Trailer Equipment, of Loughton, Essex, is launching the Weweler front axle air suspension for Scania vehicles in the UK, said to provide improved stability and ride with less weight.
Since its introduction, at the Amsterdam show in February 1988, more than 60 vehicles have been equipped and are operating on the Continent.
The system was developed two years ago in conjunction with Scania for the "Philips concept".
Scania has since developed its own more complicated system (CM 6July), but it will not be available initially on the British market.
Weweler's front axle air suspension is approved by Scania for Series 2 and 3 models, irrespective of wheelbase.
Installation of a new spring rolling mill, four years ago has allowed Weweler to produce the parabolic spring used in conjunction with the air bag, thus avoiding the need for Panhard rods or extra bracketry. The standard system in corporates a five-litre air tank.
Available for 6.5and 7.5tonne axles, the system gives a ride height of 850mm with a stroke of 240mm. Where a 36litre air tank is specified the system can give a raise and lower capacity of +180 to —60mm.
The full system adds 50kg to the vehicle's unladen weight but is 75kg lighter than Scania's own system. While the ideal application is with the traditional 17-tonne distribution vehicle, with a demountable body, Weweler is still 18 months away from producing an air suspension for other makes.
The retrofit price is given as £2,200, but if supplied on a new vehicle, through a Scania dealer, there should be a substantial allowance for the original equipment.
Phoenix managing director John Davis told CM: "The first company to ask for a full air suspension conversion, to be carried out by our approved converter, will be issued with a front axle air suspension system completely free".