GILLIG LOW FLOOR, Service Manual, Page: 149 / 506

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Suspension
FRONT SUSPENSION
The front air suspension supports a Meritor FH946 solid beam steering axle. The air suspension is com -
posed of air springs for a smooth ride, shock absorbers to dampen bounce, and torque rods to maintain
axle/frame geometry.
Wheel bearings, air suspension, brakes, and hydraulic power steering components are described in the
appropriate chapters of this manual.
Torque Rods
The upper and lower torque rods are hollow steel tubes with internal threads at each end into which the
rod ends are threaded. The ends are secured by clamp assemblies. The torque rods have right hand and
left hand threads. Make sure the correct thread is at the correct end of the rod. The right hand threaded
end of the upper rods is stained red.
The torque rods hold the axle in a position which is perpendicular to the axis of the chassis so that the
tires track in parallel lines when in operation. This operation is performed at the factory and should not
require service by the user. The torque rods are also the means by which caster is adjusted. Except for
actual replacement of a torque rod, the user should not have to adjust caster after it is set at the factory.
The right-hand threaded rod end (red end of upper rods) is always
attached to the air spring mounting support assemblies. The left-hand
threaded ends (no red end on the upper rod) are always attached to
chassis members.
Replacement
Gillig recommends that torque rods always be changed out in pairs.
Torque values for suspension fasteners are listed in the Specifications
chapter of this manual (unless otherwise noted).
1. Support the coach body by placing blocks or jacks under the frame rail. Be sure that the coach
cannot move. The axle should also be supported either by the wheels or with a jack.
2. Remove the two bolts, lockwashers, and locknuts which attach the rod ends to the suspension
tower and the air spring mounting assembly.
3. Remove the torque rod.