Navistar-International Rear Leaf Spring | 13 Leaves | 11,400 lbs. Capacity

Al

The technical difference between a radius leaf suspension and a suspension using torque rods is the device that locates the axle and maintains alignment. A radius leaf will locate the axle using a leaf as part of the spring pack. This leaf will have a bushing and a means to attach it to a solid mount on the vehicle. Aligning the axle is done with shims that move the spring forward or aft on the mount. A torque rod suspension will use 2 or more rods to locate the axle with bushings on either end. One end will mount to the axle and one will mount to the frame of the vehicle. Alignment of the axle is done with shims on the torque rods where they mount or with the torque rods themselves if they are the threaded adjustable type. On a dump truck application a torque rod type suspension would be a better choice. With the severe use a dump truck will see the torque rods are easier to replace and repair when worn or damaged. When a suspension using radius leaves is damaged it will normally require the removal of the entire spring to replace the single radius leaf.