operators_manual

1/2" (12.7 mm)
1
See Engine Operator's Manual for DEF
filter maintenance interval.
Rear Axle and Suspension
Y
our vehicle's suspension, by design,
requires a minimal amount of maintenance.
However, suspensions in over-the-road
operations require periodic inspection to
ensure trouble-free performance.
WARNING
DO NOT work on the vehicle without
the
parking brake set and wheels
blocked securely. If the vehicle is not
secured
to prevent uncontrolled vehi-
cle movement, it could roll and may re-
sult in death, personal injury, equip-
ment or property damage.
WARNING
DO NOT operate the vehicle if the sus-
pension
U-bolts are not properly tight-
ened. Loose U-bolts will cause the
axle to not be properly secured to the
suspension, which could cause loss of
vehicle control and an accident. Loose
U-bolts can also cause uneven tire
wear and poor alignment. Failure to
comply may result in death, personal
injury, equipment or property damage.
WARNING
Failure to maintain the specified torque
values
or to replace worn parts can
cause component system failure, pos-
sibly resulting in an accident. Improp-
erly tightened (loose) suspension U-
bolts can lead to unsafe vehicle condi-
tions, including: hard steering, axle
misalignment, spring breakage or ab-
normal
tire wear. Failure to comply
may result in death, personal injury,
equipment or property damage.
CAUTION
DO NOT spray the suspension with
chemical
products or mineral oil; it can
cause damage to the bushings.
NOTE
Failure to follow these recommenda-
tions could void warranty
.
Visual Inspection
For all vehicles, mandatory maintenance
procedures include retightening of U-bolts
and complete inspection. Even with proper
maintenance, however
, many factors affect
the service life of springs and suspension
components: fatigue, vehicle gross weight,
type of load, road conditions, and vehicle
speed. All vehicles need to have their U-
bolts checked and tightened regularly, but
severe use of your vehicle can cause them
to loosen faster. It is important that U-bolts
MAINTENANCE - Rear Axle and Suspension
284 Y53-6110-1A1 (01/21)
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