STEERTEK NXT High Capacity
Steer Axle System for
Fire and Rescue Vehicles
SUBJECT: Service Instructions
LIT NO: 17730-311
DATE: July 2018
REVISION: A

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1

Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Section 2

Product Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Section 3

Important Safety Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Section 4

Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Section 5

Special Tools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Clamp Group Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Section 6

Towing Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Axle . . . . . . . . 37

Section 7

Preventive Maintenance

Steering Knuckle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Component Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Lubrication Intervals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Component Replacement
Fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Shock Absorber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Front Leaf Spring Frame Hanger . . . . . . . . . 32
Leaf Spring and Clamp Group Assembly . . . 32

Kingpin Bushing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Tie Rod Ends and Cross Tube. . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Kingpin Lubrication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Section 10 Torque Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Tie Rod End Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Section 11 Alignment Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Tie Rod End Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Section 12 Troubleshooting Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Clamp Group Re-torque Interval . . . . . . . . . 16
Shock Absorber Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Steering Knuckle Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Kingpin Bushing Inspection. . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Tire Inspection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Wheel Bearing End Play Inspection. . . . . . . 22

Section 8

Section 9

Alignment & Adjustments
Alignment Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Inspection Prior to Alignment. . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Front Wheel Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Steering Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Toe Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Section 13 Reference Material. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System for Fire and Rescue Vehicles

SECTION 1

Introduction
This publication is intended to acquaint and assist maintenance personnel in the preventive
maintenance, service, repair and rebuild of the Hendrickson STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer
Axle System for applicable Fire and Rescue Vehicles.
NOTE

Use only Hendrickson Genuine parts for servicing this suspension system.
It is important to read and understand the entire Technical Procedure publication prior to performing any maintenance, service, repair, or rebuild of the product. The information in this publication
contains parts lists, safety information, product specifications, features, proper maintenance, service, repair and rebuild instructions for STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System.
Hendrickson reserves the right to make changes and improvements to its products and
­publications at any time. Contact Hendrickson Tech Services for information on the latest version
of this manual at 1-866-755-5968 (toll-free U.S. and Canada), 1-630-910-2800 (outside U.S. and
Canada) or e-mail: techservices@hendrickson‑intl.com.
The latest revision of this publication is available online at
www.hendrickson-intl.com.

SECTION 2

Product Description
Hendrickson’s STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System — STEERTEK NXT High Capacity
is the durable and lightweight alternative to forged I-beam axles. Optimized performance and
integrated with Hendrickson spring and elastomer technology, STEERTEK NXT achieves complete
suspension and axle system efficiency. The unique design provides up to 40 pounds of weight
savings compared to traditional forged I-beam axles. Continuous beam architecture minimizes
stress points for added durability. STEERTEK NXT High Capacity is rated for 100% off-highway use.
Multiple Axle Configurations — Single or twin steer applications, deep or standard drop, wide or
narrow track, flexible spring seat centers and multiple steering arm and tie rod arm configurations.
Brake Compatibility — Compatible with drum 16.5" x 6" or disc brakes with up to brakes and
315 to 445 mm tires.
Knuckle Assembly — Removable kingpin design helps reduced maintenance. Premium kingpin
bushings and seals provide enhanced protection from the elements to improve bushing life
Leaf Spring Assembly — The lightweight durable design provides excellent stability, ride
and handling.

Introduction

2

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STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System for Fire and Rescue Vehicles
Figure 2-1

TECHNICAL NOTES
1. STEERTEK NXT high-capacity system is approved for 100% OFF-highway usage. Other applications must be
pre-approved by both Hendrickson and vehicle manufacturer. The system has a 18,000 to 24,000 pound
capacity with load ratings up to 24,000 pound in certain applications. System capacity represents maximum loads on tires at ground level.
2. The STEERTEK NXT system is available with 70.89" Intersections (KPI).
3. The STEERTEK NXT system offers 3.74" axle beam drop height. Axle beam drop is measured from the kingpin intersection to the top of the axle.
4. This system is anti-lock braking system (ABS) ready. This system is compatible with industry standard wheel
ends and brakes.
5. The STEERTEK NXT system product identification is etched on the front of the axle beam providing the following information, see Figure 2-2:
■■

Axle part number: Identifies the features of the axle beam.

■■

Axle assembly number: Identifies the complete assembly, which includes the steering knuckles and
bracket assemblies.

Figure 2-2

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Product Description

STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System for Fire and Rescue Vehicles

SECTION 3

Important Safety Notice
Proper maintenance, service and repair is important to the reliable operation of the suspension.
The procedures recommended by Hendrickson and described in this technical publication are
methods of performing such maintenance, service and repair.
The warnings and cautions should be read carefully to help prevent personal injury and to assure
that proper methods are used. Improper maintenance, service or repair may d­ amage the vehicle,
cause personal injury, render the vehicle unsafe in operation, or void manufacturer’s warranty.
Failure to follow the safety precautions in this manual can result in personal injury and / or property damage. Carefully read and understand all safety related information within this publication,
on all decals and all such materials provided by the vehicle manufacturer before conducting any
maintenance, service or repair.
■■

Explanation of signal words

Hazard “Signal Words” (Danger-Warning-Caution) appear in various locations throughout this
publication. Information accented by one of these signal words must be observed to help minimize the risk of personal injury to service personnel, or possibility of improper service methods
which may damage the vehicle or render it unsafe.
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or
death.
Additional ‘Notes’ or ‘Service Hints’ are utilized to emphasize areas of procedural importance and
provide suggestions for ease of repair. The following definitions indicate the use of these signal
words as they appear throughout the publication.
Indicates AN IMMINENTLY HAZARDOUS SITUATION which, IF NOT AVOIDED, WILL result in SERIOUS
injury OR DEATH.
Indicates A POTENTIAL HAZARDOUS SITUATION WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED, Can RESULT in SERIOUS
injury OR DEATH.
Indicates A POTENTIAL HAZARDOUS SITUATION WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED, MAY RESULT IN MINOR or
MODERATE INJURY, or property damage.

NOTE

An operating procedure, practice condition, etc. which is essential to emphasize.

SERVICE HINT

A helpful suggestion, which will make the servicing being performed a little easier and / or faster.
Also note that particular service operations may require the use of special tools designed for
specific purposes. These special tools can be found in the Special Tools section of this p­ ublication.
The torque symbol alerts you to tighten fasteners to a specified torque value. Refer to Torque
Specifications section of this publication.

Important Safety Notice

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STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System for Fire and Rescue Vehicles
■■

Safety precautions

FASTENERS
DISCARD USED FASTENERS. ALWAYS USE NEW FASTENERS TO COMPLETE A REPAIR. FAILURE TO DO
SO COULD RESULT IN FAILURE OF THE PART, OR MATING COMPONENTS, LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL,
PERSONAL INJURY, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
LOOSE OR OVER TORQUED FASTENERS CAN CAUSE COMPONENT DAMAGE, LOSS OF VEHICLE
CONTROL, PROPERTY DAMAGE, OR SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY. MAINTAIN CORRECT TORQUE VALUE
AT ALL TIMES. CHECK TORQUE VALUES ON A REGULAR BASIS AS SPECIFIED, USING a TORQUE WRENCH
that is REGULARLY CALIBRATED.TORQUE VALUES SPECIFIED IN THIS TECHNICAL PUBLICATION ARE FOR
HENDRICKSON SUPPLIED FASTENERS ONLY. IF NON-HENDRICKSON FASTENERS ARE USED, FOLLOW
TORQUE SPECIFICATION LISTED IN THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURER’S SERVICE MANUAL.
LOAD CAPACITY
Adhere TO THE PUBLISHED CAPACITY RATINGS FOR THE SUSPENSIONS. ADD-ON AXLE ATTACHMENTS
(I.E. SLIDING FIFTH WHEELS) AND OTHER LOAD TRANSFERRING DEVICES CAN INCREASE THE
SUSPENSION LOAD ABOVE THE RATED AND APPROVED CAPACITIES WHICH COULD RESULT IN FAILURE
AND LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY CAUSING PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
Repair or reconditioning
THE REPAIR OR RECONDITIONING OF SUSPENSION OR AXLE COMPONENTS IS NOT ALLOWED AS
SHOWN ON LABEL IN FIGURE 3-1. ANY AXLE COMPONENTS FOUND TO BE DAMAGED OR OUT OF
SPECIFICATIONS MUST BE REPLACED. ALL MAJOR HENDRICKSON COMPONENTS ARE HEAT TREATED
AND TEMPERED. The COMPONENTS CANNOT BE BENT, WELDED, HEATED, OR REPAIRED WITHOUT
REDUCING THE STRENGTH OR LIFE OF THE COMPONENT. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES CAN
CAUSE LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY, DEATH, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE AND
WILL VOID APPLICABLE WARRANTIES.
Support the vehicle prior to servicing
PLACE THE VEHICLE ON A LEVEL FLOOR AND CHOCK THE WHEELS TO HELP PREVENT THE VEHICLE
FROM MOVING. NEVER WORK UNDER A RAISED VEHICLE SUPPORTED ONLY BY A FLOOR JACK. ALWAYS
SUPPORT A RAISED VEHICLE WITH SAFETY STANDS. BLOCK THE WHEELS AND MAKE SURE THE UNIT
WILL NOT ROLL BEFORE RELEASING BRAKES. A JACK CAN SLIP OR FALL OVER. SERIOUS PERSONAL
INJURY CAN RESULT.
MODIFYING COMPONENTS
DO NOT MODIFY OR REWORK PARTS WITHOUT AUTHORIZATION FROM HENDRICKSON. DO NOT
SUBSTITUTE REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS NOT AUTHORIZED BY HENDRICKSON. USE OF MODIFIED,
REWORKED, SUBSTITUTE OR REPLACEMENT PARTS NOT AUTHORIZED BY HENDRICKSON MAY NOT
MEET HENDRICKSON’S SPECIFICATIONS, AND CAN RESULT IN FAILURE OF THE PART, LOSS OF VEHICLE
CONTROL, POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE, AND WILL VOID ANY APPLICABLE
WARRANTIES. USE ONLY HENDRICKSON AUTHORIZED REPLACEMENT PARTS.
SHOCK ABSORBERS
THE SHOCK ABSORBERS ARE a required component whether supplied by Hendrickson or
the vehicle manufacturer. Hendrickson is not responsible for components supplied
by the vehicle manufacturer. For assistance with inspection, maintenance and rebuild
instructions, see vehicle manufacturer.
Personnel PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
ALWAYS WEAR PROPER EYE PROTECTION AND OTHER REQUIRED PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
TO HELP PREVENT PERSONAL INJURY WHEN performing VEHICLE MAINTENANCE, REPAIR OR
SERVICE.

17730-311

5

Important Safety Notice

STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System for Fire and Rescue Vehicles
AXLE camber
Unauthorized welding or modifications can cause cracks or other axle structural
damage and result in loss of vehicle control, severe personal injury or death. Do not
bend, weld or modify axle without authorization from Hendrickson Truck commercial
vehicle Systems.
AXLE CAMBER IS NOT ADJUSTABLE. DO NOT CHANGE THE AXLE CAMBER ANGLE OR BEND THE AXLE
BEAM, see FIGURE 3-1. BENDING THE AXLE BEAM TO CHANGE THE CAMBER ANGLE can DAMAGE THE
AXLE AND REDUCE AXLE STRENGTH, WILL VOID HENDRICKSON’S WARRANTY and CAN CAUSE loss
of vehicle control, possibly causing personal INJURY or property damage.
Improper jacking method
Improper jacking method can cause structural damage and result in loss of vehicle
control, severe personal injury or death. Do not use axle beam outboard of axle seats.
Refer to vehicle manufacturer for proper jacking instructions, SEE FIGURE 3‑1.
Figure 3-1

DAMAGED axle COMPONENTS
IF A VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH A STEERTEK NXT system IS INVOLVED IN A CRASH, THE AXLE STEER
KNUCKLES MUST BE DISASSEMBLED AND A THOROUGH INSPECTION OF THE AXLE MUST BE PERFORMED
NOTING THE CONDITION OF THE AXLE BEAM, KINGPINS, AND KNUCKLE ASSEMBLIES, INCLUDING THE
AREAS OF AXLE TO KINGPIN INTERFACE, FOR ANY DAMAGE, GAPS, KINGPIN MOVEMENT OR PLAY. IF
ANY COMPONENT APPEARS DAMAGED, OR THE KINGPINS APPEAR TO CONTAIN ANY DAMAGE, GAPS,
MOVEMENT OR PLAY, THE COMPLETE AXLE ASSEMBLY MUST BE REPLACED.
IN ADDITION, IN THE EVENT A CRASH RESULTS IN EXCESSIVE SIDE LOAD DAMAGE TO ADJACENT PARTS,
SUCH AS A BENT WHEEL, HUB, OR SPINDLE, IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED TO REPLACE such
adjacent parts and THE COMPLETE AXLE ASSEMBLY.
CONTACT HENDRICKSON TECH SERVICES WITH ANY QUESTIONS. FAILURE TO REPLACE ANY DAMAGED
COMPONENTS CAN CAUSE LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY, DEATH, OR
PROPERTY DAMAGE AND WILL VOID ANY APPLICABLE WARRANTIES.
PROCEDURES AND TOOLS
A MECHANIC USING A SERVICE PROCEDURE OR TOOL WHICH HAS NOT BEEN RECOMMENDED BY
HENDRICKSON MUST FIRST SATISFY HIMSELF THAT NEITHER HIS SAFETY NOR THE VEHICLE’S SAFETY
WILL BE JEOPARDIZED BY THE METHOD OR TOOL SELECTED. INDIVIDUALS DEVIATING IN ANY MANNER
FROM THE INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED ASSUME ALL RISKS OF potential PERSONAL INJURY OR
DAMAGE TO EQUIPMENT INVOLVED.

Important Safety Notice

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STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System for Fire and Rescue Vehicles
Off-roadway TOWING
WHEN A VEHICLE IS DISABLED AND EQUIPPED WITH A STEERTEK NXT system, CARE MUST BE TAKEN
TO ENSURE THERE IS NO DAMAGE TO THE SUSPENSION OR AXLE WHEN TOWING THE VEHICLE. THE
USE OF TOW STRAPS ARE NECESSARY TO TOW A DISABLED VEHICLE from A REPAIR FACILITY PARKING
LOT INTO THE SHOP BAY. THE TOW STRAPS SHOULD BE CONNECTED TO THE TOW HOOKS PROVIDED
BY THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURER AT THE FRONT OF THE BUMPER. IF THE USE OF TOW HOOKS IS NOT
AN OPTION, THEN TOW STRAPS MAY BE WRAPPED AROUND THE FRONT STEERTEK NXT system, (SEE
FIGURE 3-2) IN A MANNER THAT IS ACCEPTABLE FOR TOWING THE VEHICLE FROM A REPAIR FACILITY
PARKING LOT INTO THE SHOP BAY. DO NOT USE A TOW CHAIN AROUND THE FRONT STEERTEK NXT
system TO TOW THE VEHICLE, DOING SO WILL DAMAGE THE AXLE AND Void any applicable
warranty, (SEE FIGURE 3-2). FOR DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS FOR ON-HIGHWAY TOWING, SEE towing
procedure section of this publication.
Figure 3-2

TORCH / WELDING
DO NOT USE A CUTTING TORCH TO REMOVE ANY FASTENERS. THE USE OF HEAT ON SUSPENSION
COMPONENTS WILL ADVERSELY AFFECT THE STRENGTH OF THESE PARTS. A COMPONENT DAMAGED
IN THIS MANNER can RESULT IN THE LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY
OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
EXERCISE EXTREME CARE WHEN HANDLING OR PERFORMING MAINTENANCE IN THE AREA OF THE
leaf SPRING ASSEMBLY AND AXLE. DO NOT CONNECT ARC WELDING GROUND LINE TO THE leaf
SPRING ASSEMBLY OR AXLE. DO NOT STRIKE AN ARC WITH THE ELECTRODE ON THE leaf SPRING
ASSEMBLY OR AXLE. DO NOT USE HEAT NEAR THE leaf SPRING ASSEMBLY OR AXLE. DO NOT NICK
OR GOUGE THE leaf SPRING ASSEMBLY OR AXLE. SUCH IMPROPER ACTIONS CAN DAMAGE THE
leaf SPRING ASSEMBLY OR THE AXLE, AND CAN CAUSE LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
PARTS CLEANING
SOLVENT CLEANERS CAN BE FLAMMABLE, POISONOUS AND CAUSE BURNS. TO HELP AVOID SERIOUS
PERSONAL INJURY, CAREFULLY FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURER’S PRODUCT INSTRUCTIONS AND
GUIDELINES AND THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURE:

1. WEAR PROPER EYE PROTECTION
2. WEAR CLOTHING THAT PROTECTS YOUR SKIN
3. WORK IN A WELL VENTILATED AREA
4. DO NOT USE GASOLINE, OR SOLVENTS THAT CONTAIN GASOLINE. GASOLINE CAN EXPLODE
5. HOT SOLUTION TANKS OR ALKALINE SOLUTIONS MUST BE USED CORRECTLY. FOLLOW THE
MANUFACTURER’S RECOMMENDED INSTRUCTIONS AND GUIDELINES CAREFULLY TO HELP
PREVENT PERSONAL ACCIDENT OR INJURY
DO NOT USE HOT SOLUTION TANKS OR WATER AND ALKALINE SOLUTIONS TO CLEAN GROUND
OR POLISHED PARTS. DOING SO WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE PARTS AND Void any applicable
warranty.

17730-311

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Important Safety Notice

STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System for Fire and Rescue Vehicles

SECTION 4

Parts List
Refer to the specific parts list for your vehicle available online at www‌.‌hendrickson‑intl‌.‌com, under
Fire/Rescue, then STEERTEK NXT fabricated front steer axle system.
Figure 4-1

Parts List

8

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STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System for Fire and Rescue Vehicles

SECTION 5

Special Tools
Shop made tools
These shop made tools are designed to install and remove kingpin bushings. Bushing tools are made from cold rolled
steel or equivalent. Drawings are for reference only. Hendrickson does not supply these.

Kingpin Bushing driver

Kingpin Bushing Remover /
Installer

Axle Collar driver

Adjustable straight flute reamer

The dimension of cutting diameter
must facilitate a range of 2.00"-2.01"

17730-311

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Special Tools

STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System for Fire and Rescue Vehicles

SECTION 6

Towing Procedures
On-Highway and On-Roadway
Hendrickson recommends that a vehicle equipped with a STEERTEK NXT steer axle and suspension system be towed by the following methods (listed in order of preference) for ON-HIGHWAY or
ON-ROADWAY applications.
■■

METHOD 1 — Wheel lift, the ideal towing procedure

■■

METHOD 2 — Towing the vehicle from the rear

■■

METHOD 3 — Conventional axle fork

Please read, understand and comply with any additional towing instructions and safety precautions that may be provided by the vehicle manufacturer.
Hendrickson will not be responsible for any damage to the axle, suspension or other vehicle components resulting from any towing method or fixture not authorized by Hendrickson.
Please contact Hendrickson Tech Services at 1-866-755-5968 or send e-mail to:
techservices‌@‌hendrickson-intl.com with any questions regarding proper towing procedures for
vehicles equipped with a STEERTEK NXT system.

Method 1 — Wheel Lift
This method provides the greatest ease for towing the vehicle. Lifting at the tires helps reduce the
risk of possible damage to the axle, suspension, and engine components during towing operations, see Figure 6-1.
Figure 6-1

Method 2 — Towing Vehicle from the Rear
This method is preferred when the proper equipment is not available to perform the wheel lift
method and is necessary for wreckers not equipped with an under lift system.

Towing Procedures

10

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STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System for Fire and Rescue Vehicles
Method 3 — Axle FORK Lift
This is an alternative method for towing the vehicle, but requires standard tow forks and designated lift points.
NOTE

When lifting a vehicle with an under lift boom, care must be taken not to damage the engine’s oil
pan. Vehicles equipped with a front fairing may require removal of the front fairing prior to towing
to prevent component damage.
■■

Ensure there is sufficient clearance between the oil pan and the boom.

■■

Release the tractor brakes.

■■

Install safety straps prior to towing the vehicle, it is preferred to use nylon safety straps.
Chains have a tendency to bind and may cause damage to the axle.

1. Use a tow fork with a minimum of 4.5" opening, 2" shank, see Figure 6-2.
2. Install the fork in the boom properly.
3. The proper tow fork location is centered between the locknuts on the axle seats, see
Figure 6-3.
Figures 6-2

Figure 6-3

OFF-ROADWAY TOWING
WHEN A VEHICLE IS DISABLED AND EQUIPPED WITH A STEERTEK NXT system, CARE MUST BE
TAKEN TO ENSURE THERE IS NO DAMAGE TO THE SUSPENSION OR AXLE WHEN TOWING THE VEHICLE.
THE USE OF TOW STRAPS ARE NECESSARY TO TOW A DISABLED VEHICLE from A REPAIR FACILITY
PARKING LOT INTO THE SHOP BAY. THE TOW STRAPS SHOULD BE CONNECTED TO THE TOW HOOKS
PROVIDED BY THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURER AT THE FRONT OF THE BUMPER. IF THE USE OF TOW
HOOKS IS NOT AN OPTION, THEN TOW STRAPS MAY BE WRAPPED AROUND THE FRONT STEERTEK NXT
system, (SEE FIGURE 6-4) IN A MANNER THAT IS ACCEPTABLE FOR TOWING THE VEHICLE FROM A
REPAIR FACILITY PARKING LOT INTO THE SHOP BAY. DO NOT USE A TOW CHAIN AROUND THE FRONT
STEERTEK NXT system TO TOW THE VEHICLE, DOING SO WILL DAMAGE THE AXLE AND Void any
applicable warranty, (SEE FIGURE 6-4).
■■ NYLON STRAPS OR CHAINS ARE NOT RECOMMENDED FOR ON-HIGHWAY OR ON-ROADWAY TOWING.
Figure 6-4

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Towing Procedures

STEERTEK NXT High Capacity Steer Axle System for Fire and Rescue Vehicles

SECTION 7

Preventive Maintenance
The STEERTEK NXT high capacity steer axle system is low maintenance system. Following appropriate inspection procedure is important to help ensure the proper maintenance and operation of
the STEERTEK NXT high capacity steer axle system and component parts function to their highest
efficiency.

HENDRICKSON recommended preventive maintenance intervals
■■ The first 1,000 miles
■■ Vocational – every 25,000 miles (40,000 kilometers) or 6 months, whichever comes first

Component Inspection
■■ Axle seat — Check torque. Inspect axle seats for cracks or damage. Inspect axle seat liners,

check for any missing liner material. If liner material is missing disassemble clamp group and
replace liners, see Component Replacement section of this publication.
■■ Clamp group — Check torque on clamp group mounting hardware, refer to the Torque
Specifications section of this publication.
■■ Fasteners — Look for any loose or damaged fasteners on the entire suspension. Make sure all
fasteners are tightened to the specified torque. Refer to Torque Specifications section of this publication if fasteners are supplied by Hendrickson, non‑Hendrickson fasteners, refer to the vehicle
manufacturer. Use a calibrated torque wrench to check torque in a tightening direction. As soon
as the fastener starts to move, record the torque. Correct the torque if necessary. Replace any
worn or damaged fasteners.
■■ Front and rear spring hangers — Check for cracks or loose mounting hardware. Replace
if necessary, see Component Replacement section of this publication for replacement
procedure.
■■ Operation — All steering components must move freely through the full range of motion from

axle stop to axle stop.
■■ Shackle bracket — Look for any signs of excessive wear to shackle and shackle bracket.

■■ Shock absorber — Look for any signs of dents or leakage, misting is not considered a leak.

See Shock Absorber Inspection in this section.

■■ Steel leaf spring — Look for cracks. Replace if cracked or broken. Check the front bushing for

any wear or deterioration. Replace if necessary, see the Component Replacement section of
this publication for replacement procedure.
■■ Steering pivot points — Check for looseness at all pivot points. Inspect and lubricate all pivot
points. Refer to the Troubleshooting Guide section of this publication.
■■ STEERTEK NXT High Capacity axle — The axle should be free of any nicks or gouges. Inspect
for any cracks or dents on axle.
■■ Tire wear — Inspect tires for wear patterns that may indicate suspension damage or mis-