RCA-215T - Trailer
Nonsteerable – Auxiliary Axle Suspension
Installation and Service Manual
Suspension Identication ..................................... 2
Suspension System Serial Tag
Installation ............................................................. 3
Prior to Installation
Axle Integration
Axle Weld Standards
Suspension Mounting
Air Control Kit - Troubleshooting
Maintenance .......................................................... 9
Recommended Service Intervals
Parts Illustration
215T Trailer Suspension
Bushing Replacement Kit
Bushing Replacement Procedure
Appendix .............................................................. 14
Torque Specications
Axle Alignment
Warranty ............................................................... 16
215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18 Page 1 ENG
Part No.:
Doc.:
9710113
215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18
SUSPENSION IDENTIFICATION
Introduction
It’s important that the proper suspension model be
chosen for the application in which it is to be used.
The Ridewell Compact Air Ride (RCA) 215T Trailer
Suspension is available for a wide range of applications. The suspension can be purchased with or
without an integrated axle.
Refer to the engineering drawing for detailed information on the suspension system components and
operating parameters.
Read through the entire Installation and Service
Manual (ISM) before performing any installation or
maintenance procedures.
PART NO:
SERIAL NO:
G
ross Axle WeiGht rAtinG CertifiCAtion is per the finAl stAGe
mAnufACturer or Alterer
his produCt mAy be Covered under one or more pAtents
t
dditionAl pAtents mAy be pendinG
A
or more informAtion on pAtent or suspension/Axle CApACity rAtinG
f
ContACt rideWell CorporAtion
.
.
.
.
www.ridewellcorp.com (800) 641-4122
Serial Identication Tag
Ridewell suspension systems and axles can be identi-
ed by the Part and Serial Number listed on the serial
identication tags.
Suspension Serial Tag
The Suspension Serial Tag provides information on
the suspension model (Figure 1).
The Part Number (215xxxx) refers to the individual
suspension system.
The nine-digit Serial Number (1xxxxxxxx) refers to
the date and order of manufacture of the suspension.
Please refer to both the part number and serial number when contacting Ridewell for customer service,
replacement parts and warranty information.
Axle Body - Serial Tag
Ridewell-branded axles will have a tag aached to
the axle tube listing the Part Number (165xxxx) and
Serial Number of the axle body (Figure 2).
Notes and Cautions
All work should be performed by a properly trained
technician using the proper/special tools and safe
work procedures.
Figure 1. The Suspension Serial Tag is located on
the left-hand (driver’s side) suspension hanger.
MODEL: PART NO.
SERIAL NO. CAPACITY TON
Figure 2. Ridewell axles have a serial identication
tag listing the Part Number (165xxxx) and serial
number of the axle body.
The ISM uses two types of service notes to provide
important safety guidelines, prevent equipment damage and make sure that the suspension system oper-
ates correctly. The service notes are dened as:
“NOTE”: Provides additional instructions or
procedures to complete tasks and make sure that
the suspension functions properly.
Indicates a hazardous situation or
unsafe practice that, if not avoided, could result
in equipment damage and serious injury.
ENG Page 2 215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18
Prior to Installation
INSTALLATION
Refer to the engineering drawing to conrm dimensional requirements and the range of ride heights
available.
The suspension is designed to t up onto standard
I-beam trailer frames at beam centers that correspond
to standard axle track widths (Figure 3).
Installation at wider beam centers will reduce suspension clearances. Installation at narrower beam
centers will de-rate the axle beam capacity.
NOTE: For non-standard beam centers, frames,
frame centers, axle track widths and wheel-end
equipment, the installer is responsible for verifying
clearances, axle capacity, proper t-up, and any additional required support structure.
Installations can vary and procedures should be
adapted for dierent vehicles, as needed.
• The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is determined by the system component with the lowest
load rating. Please consult with tire, wheel, axle
and brake manufacturers before installation to
determine the GAWR.
• If vehicle chassis modications are required, consult with the vehicle manufacturer to ensure that
such changes are permied.
Installer Responsibilities
The installer of the suspension has the sole responsi-
bility for proper aachment of the suspension system
to the vehicle chassis.
• The installer is responsible for locating the suspension system on the vehicle to provide the
proper load distribution.
• The installer must verify that vehicle crossmembers are positioned to support the suspension at
the installing location.
• It is the installer’s responsibility to determine that
axle spacing conforms to any applicable federal
and local bridge laws.
• The installer must verify that air reservoir volume
requirements are met after suspension installation. Consult the vehicle manufacturer or Federal
Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) 121 for
more information.
• The installer must verify there is sucient clearance for proper functioning of the auxiliary
suspension, air springs, brake chambers, steering components, axle (including axle to driveline
clearance) and tires.
• Welding or altering suspension components
is not permied without the express wrien
permission of Ridewell Suspensions.
Figure 3. Standard Trailer Dimensions
Trailer Width Axle Track Width Frame Center Beam Center Air Spring Center
96” 71.5” 38” 35” 31”
102” 77.5” 44” 41” 37”
215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18 Page 3 ENG
Axle centered between
beam centers
Axle Integration
Suspension systems are available with and without a factory integrated axle. Customer-supplied axle assemblies must be positioned and oriented (rotated) properly before welding the axle.
Use the top-center mark on the axle, if available, to
identify the center of the axle and orient the axle assembly on the suspension. The axle assembly should
be installed so that the camshafts, when activated,
rotate in the same direction as the wheels.
Failure to follow procedures and design
specications could result in injury, damage to the
axle or suspension and void the warranty.
Weld Preparation
The joint to be welded should be positioned in the
at or horizontal position. All grease, dirt, paint, slag
or other contaminants must be removed from the
weld joint.
The axle and suspension components should be at a
minimum temperature of 60°F (15.5°C). Pre-heat the
weld zone to the axle manufacturer’s recommended
pre-heat temperature, if required.
Figure 4.
Axle should be centered between beams.
Pivot centers
are lined up
Weld Procedure
1. Center the axle assembly on the beams (Figure 4).
2. Check the engineering drawing for the brake
component orientation (rotation) before clamping
into place and making the nal welds.
2.1 Drum brake camshafts are spaced o the tail
of the trailing arm beam. Make sure the brake
chamber brackets are oriented properly and
clamp the axle assembly into place.
2.2 Disc brake assemblies have a right- and
left-hand caliper assembly. Make sure the
callipers are located on the correct side and
rotated to the proper position before clamping
the axle assembly into place.
3. Check the gap between the axle and the axle seats
before welding (Figure 5). Side gaps should be
no greater than 1/8”. The gap at the boom of the
axle seat should be no greater than 1/16”.
4. Weld the axle to the seat according to Ridewell
Weld Process #1 (Page 5).
NOTE: Mounted air springs should be covered to
protect them from welding spaer.
Figure 5.
Correct axle seating for welding.
ENG Page 4 215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18
1/8" MAX
ROOT
PASS
3/8"
SECOND
PASS
1/2"
THIRD
PASS
AXLE
BEAM AXLE SEAT
WELD JOINT PREPARATIO N
3.0°
4.0°
NO WELDING ZO NE
NO WELD
TOP OF AXLE
NO WELD
BOTTOM
OF AXLE
AXLE
BEAM AXLE SEAT
FIRST PASS
1.0 TYP
AXLE
BEAM AXLE SEAT
ARC START
ARC STOP
SMAW
REPRESENTATIVE AXLE SEAT (PROFILE DEPENDENT ON SUSPENSION PRODUCT)
THIRD PASS
SECOND PASS
FIRST PASS
1/2"
SECOND PASS
1.0 TYP
AXLE
BEAM AXLE SEAT
THIRD PASS
ARC START
ARC STOP
GMAW / FCAW
THIRD PASS
SECOND PASS
FIRST PASS
1 - CAUTION: All welds must be kept away from the top and bottom of the axle where maximum stresses occur
(see “NO WELDING ZONE” illustration above). Do not test-weld the arc on any part of the axle tube.
2 - All welders and welding operators should be certified as per the requirements of the American Welding Society (AWS)
or equivalent. All electrodes used should meet the AWS specifications and classifications for welding carbon
and low-alloy steels.
3 - Recommended Welding Methods: Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) or Flux
Cored Arc Welding (FCAW). The welding method used and the electrode selected must develop a minimum weld
tensile strength of 70,000 psi per AWS specifications. The best fusion and mechanical properties will be obtained by
using the voltage, current, and shielding medium recommended by the electrode manufacturer. If the SMAW method
is used, the stick electrodes must be new, dry, free of contaminants and stored per AWS specifications.
4 - Weld Joint Preparation: The joint to be welded should be positioned in the flat or horizontal position. All grease, dirt, paint,
slag or other contaminants must be removed from the weld joint without gouging the axle tube. CAUTION: Never weld
when the axle is cold. The axle and beam assemblies to be welded should be at a temperature of at least 60°F (15°C).
Pre-heat the weld zone to the axle manufacturer's recommended pre-heat temperature, if required. This will reduce
the chance of an area of brittle material forming adjacent to the weld.
5 - The axle should fit into the beam assembly with a maximum root gap of 1/8-inch between the axle and the beam axle seat
(see “WELD JOINT PREPARATION” illustration above).
6 - NOTE: Clamp the axle to the beam axle seat with a C-clamp prior to welding to make sure that proper contact occurs
(see “CORRECT” illustration below).
7 - Ground the axle to one of the attached axle parts such as the brake chamber brackets, cam brackets or brake
spider. Never ground the axle to a wheel or a hub as the spindle bearing may sustain damage.
8 - Multiple pass welding should be used on the beam/axle connection using the following guidelines: 8.1-Total fillet weld size
should be 1/2-inch. 8.2-Weld pass starts and stops should be performed as illustrated above. 8.3-Never start or stop welds
at the end of the weld joint. 8.4-Each pass must be accomplished in one or two segments. 8.5-Start welds at least 1-inch
from the end and backweld over the start. Backstep fill all craters. 8.6-If process is not GMAW all slag must be removed
between passes.
8.7-Welds must go to within 1/8-inch +/- 1/16-inch of the ends of the axle seat and must not go beyond or around the ends
of the axle seat. 8.8-Post-weld peening is recommended, but not required: Needle peen the entire toe of the second pass,
including around the ends of the axle seat. Hold the needles perpendicular to the axle. A uniform dimpled pattern
will appear when properly peened.
F 16101
E 15101
REV
DRAWN BY:
CHECKED:
APPROVED:
PROJECT NO:
03103
MATERIAL:
ADDED MAXIMUM TO 5, ADDED GMAW NOTE TO 8.6
UPDATED CORRECT VIEWS
REVISED TEXT. REMOVED LIST OF MODELS.
PROJECT
CBC
MDJ
CJB
-
SCALE:
A-SIZE:
2/1/2016
2/21/2003
2/21/2003
NTS
WEIGHT:
-
DESCRIPTION
R
TITLE:
RIDEWELL WELD PROCESS #1,
1
SHEET OF
2/10/2016 G.H. B.B. CJB
6/30/15 G.H.
DATE
RIDEWELL CORPORATION
PO BOX 4586 SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI 65808
5" DIA. AXLE, 3 PASS WELD
PART NO:
1
WELD PROCESS #1
BY
CJB
MDJ
CHK APPD
REV:
F
215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18 Page 5 ENG
Mounting the suspension to the frame
Refer to the engineering drawing for the range of ride
heights available and clearance requirements .
The suspension installer has the nal responsibility
of aaching the suspension to the vehicle frame.
Weld-On Installation Procedure
Recommended locations of customer-furnished ller
plates and supporting crossmembers for the hangers and air spring mounting plates are shown on the
engineering drawing.
tensile strength of 70,000 psi, per AWS specications.
1. Mark desired location of the hangers and ller
2. Mark the desired location of the air spring
3. Install ller plates for the hangers and air spring
4. Weld the hangers to the frame/ller plates with
5. Weld the air spring mounting plates to the frame/
6. Aach a crossmember or diagonal brace to the
Welding method must use a minimum weld
plates on the frame. Hangers must be installed
parallel to each other for proper axle alignment.
mounting plates and ller plates on the frame.
NOTE: Protect other chassis components from
weld spaer during installation, if necessary.
mounting plates on the frame. Weld ller plates
to crossmembers with ¼” llet welds down the
length of the crossmember.
1/4” llet welds completely around the hangers.
Stop the welds 1/2” from the corners and edges.
ller plates with 3/16” llet welds.
front of the hangers with 1/4” llet welds.
Bolt-On Installation
Before installation, check to make sure that wires,
hoses or other components will not be aected by
drilling into the frame rail.
Shock Absorber Kit (Optional)
The shock absorber can be installed after the suspension has been assembled and mounted on the vehicle.
Installation Procedure
Refer to the shock kit engineering drawing for the
correct mounting locations and installation angles for
the upper and lower mounting brackets on individual RCA-215 suspension models.
Welding method for lower mounting bracket
must use a minimum weld tensile strength of 70,000
psi, per AWS specications.
1. Disconnect and remove the load springs from the
suspension assembly. Protect the lift springs from
welding spaer.
2. Remove the upper air spring mounting brackets.
3. Weld replacement upper air spring mounting
brackets provided in shock absorber kit to frame
crossmember with 3/16” llet weld.
4. Measure the shock absorber to axle (lower)
mounting bracket location from the edge of the
axle seat, not from the axle weld. Clamp the
bracket into place. Use a 5/16” llet weld to weld
the lower mounting bracket to the axle at the
forward and rear edge only. Do not weld perpendicular to the axle centerline.
5. Aach the shock absorbers to mounting brackets.
with supplied HHCS and lock nut. Torque lock
nut to 160-200 ft-lb (217-271 N-m).
6. Install load springs. Torque to specications (Appendix). Connect load springs to air system.
7. Raise and lower suspension to make sure that
shock absorbers clear air spring mounting plates
and that shock absorbers do not overextend.
Failure to torque bolts/nuts of suspension
components to specications can result in failure of
the suspension and void the warranty.
• Bolts/nuts for aaching the suspension to the
vehicle are supplied by the installer. Grade 8 bolts
and anged lock nuts or lock nuts with hardened
washers are recommended.
• Bolt holes are not provided in the air spring
mounting plates. Clamp mounting plates and
ller plates, if used, in place and drill (minimum)
two bolt holes in each mounting plate for installation onto the chassis.
ENG Page 6 215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18
Final Assembly and Inspection
1. Verify welds of frame hangers and air spring
mounting plates.
2. Inspect for any loose or missing fasteners on the
suspension assembly. Verify that all suspension
component bolts/nuts are torqued to proper values (Appendix).
3. Install wheels and tires.
When lowering an auxiliary axle on an
unloaded vehicle, pressure to the load air springs
must be reduced to below 10 psi. Failure to
reduce the air pressure could cause the vehicle’s
drive axles to rise from the ground and the vehicle could roll in an unsafe manner.
4. Check that tires are inated to recommended
pressure. Check wheel hubs for proper level of
lubricant recommended by the manufacturer.
5. Lift the axle to the raised position. Check the air
system tubing and connections for leaks.
6. Check that wheels can rotate freely and that
brakes and slack adjusters are properly adjusted.
Regulate load with air spring pressure
The load capacity of the auxiliary axle is adjusted by increasing or decreasing the pressure
to the air springs. By applying more air, the lift
axle takes on a greater percentage of the load’s
weight. The load capacity is decreased as the air
pressure decreases.
Accurate readings of the load capacity can be
obtained by parking a loaded vehicle over a
calibrated scale and lowering the axle onto the
scale. The air pressure to the air springs is manually adjusted up or down to obtain the axle load
weight at various air pressures.
Do not exceed the rated load capacity of
the suspension system or other components. Exceeding the capacity can cause component failure
and void the warranty.
7. Raise and lower the suspension assembly (wheels
and tires installed) through the entire range of
travel. Make sure that sucient clearances for air
springs, brake chambers and other components
has been provided.
Do not lower the auxiliary axle while the
vehicle is moving above 10 mph.
215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18 Page 7 ENG
Install air system components
Connect the load and lift air springs and an air control kit to the air system (Figure 6).
The air control kit (ACK) consists of a pressure
regulator with a gauge connected to an air valve
controlled by an electric switch or manual knob. The
ACK allows the operator to control the air spring
pressure so that the auxiliary axle can support dierent loads.
Pressure
Protection Valve (PPV)
(Required with air brakes)
Air Tank
Air Control Kit (ACK)
Pressure Regulator
Electric Valve
Ridewell has a number of manual/electric ACK
congurations available. Installation will vary by the
type of conguration.
The installer is responsible for making sure
Quick Exhaust Valve
that air system requirements comply with the appropriate Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Figure 6.
Example of Air Control Kit (ACK) installation
Troubleshooting – Air System Installation
Problem Possible Cause Solution
Air springs ll
but do not exhaust.
Air system leaks
down after a short
period of time.
Auxiliary unit will not
stay up
Auxiliary unit not geing
the correct lift
— Obstructed air line.
— Faulty controls wiring.
— Manual override pushed in
— Leak in air system beyond
accepted standards.
— Loose Air Fittings.
— Damaged Air Lines.
— Air lines to lift and load air
springs are reversed.
— Damaged or Worn
Air Springs.
— Air lines to lift and load air
springs are reversed.
— Lift air springs do not have
proper air pressure.
— Interference with driveline or
other chassis components.
— Air control system not
installed correctly.
— Check for pinched/blocked lines.
— Check wiring with voltmeter and
correct wiring/installation.
— Release manual override.
— Pressurize system and spray soap
water solution onto the tubing,
valves and fittings. Check for
bubbles (leaks). Note: Some valves
will leak at an acceptable rate.
— Check that tubing cuts are straight
and smooth. Re-cut and reassemble
fitting joints, if necessary.
— Check and retighten fittings. Repair
or replace component, as necessary.
— Check installation. Air line from
regulator goes to (load) air springs.
— Replace if worn or damaged.
— Check installation. Air line from
regulator goes to (load) air springs.
— Check for loose fittings or worn/
damaged lines. Verify air tank
pressure with gauge.
— Visually inspect unit operation for
proper clearance. Check for loose
fasteners and retighten.
— Check installation; refer to OEM
installation procedures.
Air Springs
(Lift)
Quick
Exhaust Valve
Air Springs
(Load)
ENG Page 8 215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18
MAINTENANCE
A visual inspection of the suspension structure should be performed during each pre-trip/safety inspection.
Ridewell Suspensions recommends the following minimum service intervals for standard duty, on-highway
usage applications. More frequent intervals are recommended for heavier duty applications.
Daily/Pre-Trip Inspections
__ Check tires for proper ination, damage or
excessive wear.
__ Check wheel-ends for obvious signs of lubricant
leakage. Check for missing components.
__ Check
axle assemblies for damage/
loose components.
__ Visually inspect suspension structure for signs of
damage or excessive wear.
__ Check for loose or missing bolts/nuts. Check for
irregular movement in suspension components.
__ Make sure air controls are operating properly.
Drain all moisture from air reservoirs.
First 6,000 miles of use
__ Torque all suspension bolts/nuts to specications
(see torque values chart in Appendix).
__ Verify that the suspension is operating at the
designed ride height.
Refer to the following Technology &
Maintenance Council (TMC) publications
for additional maintenance information:
TMC RP 609 Self-Adjusting and Manual Brake
Adjuster Removal, Installation
and Maintenance
TMC RP 618 Wheel Bearing
Adjustment Procedure
TMC RP 619 Air System Inspection Procedure
TMC RP 622 Wheel Seal and Bearing Removal,
Installation, and Maintenance
TMC RP 631 Recommendations for
Wheel End Lubrication
TMC RP 643 Air Ride Suspension
Maintenance Guidelines
TMC RP 728 Trailer Axle Maintenance
Every 12,000 miles of use
__ Inspect air springs for any damage or excessive
wear. Torque air spring bolts/nuts to specications (see torque values chart in Appendix).
__ Check air lines and connections for leaks.
__ Lubricate Brake Cams and Slack Adjusters.
First 50,000 miles of use
__ Torque all suspension component bolts/nuts to
specications (see Appendix).
__ Check wheel ends for excessive play.
Annually/100,000 miles of use
__ Inspect pivot connections for worn pivot
bushings and replace, if necessary. Torque
pivot hardware and component bolts/nuts to
specications (Appendix).
__ Check
plate connections to frame.
__ Check lubrication level in wheel ends:
1) Oil-Filled Wheel Ends:
Refill/Replace lubricant as needed (Refer to
TMC RP 631 “100K/Annual Inspection”).
2) Semi-Fluid Grease:
Pull outer bearing and visually inspect lubrication level. Rell/Replace as needed
(Refer to TMC RP 631 “Level 3 Lubrication Level
Inspection” and TMC RP 618 “Wheel Bearing
Adjustment Procedure”).
__ Check air system for leaks.
__ Test air system pressure protection valve
(if equipped).
__ Check brake chambers and brakes for damage
and proper function.
components to specications can result in failure of
the suspension and void the warranty.
suspension hanger and air spring mounting
Failure to torque bolts/nuts of suspension
Pivot Bushing Inspection Procedure
Park the unloaded trailer on a level surface. Set the
brakes and chock the tires so vehicle cannot move
during inspection.
Insert the at end of a pry-bar between one side of
the hanger sidewall and the wear washers. Move the
pry-bar back-and-forth and look for excessive move-
ment of the beam (NOTE: A small amount of beam
215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18 Page 9 ENG
movement because of the rubber exing is normal).
Inspect the wear washers for excessive wear/damage.
Repeat the pry-bar process and wear washer inspection on the other side of the hanger. If any large/easy
movement or damaged wear washers is observed,
drop the beams for further inspection. Replace components as necessary.
Hanger
(Left-Hand)
Hanger Crosschannel
(Customer-Supplied)
Pivot Nut
(Flanged Lock Nut)
Alignment
Washer
Lock Nut
(Air Spring)
Lock Nut
(Air Spring)
Mounting Plate
(Air Spring)
Adjuster
Plate
Flat Washer
Pivot Bolt
(Shear-Type)
Pivot Bushing
(Narrow)
Wear Washer
Bushing Replacement Kit
with traditional pivot hardware
is available.
Lock Nut
(Air Spring)
Lock Nut
(Air Spring)
Wear Washer
Air Spring
(Lift)
Beam/Bushing Assembly
(LH)
Lock Nut
(Air Spring)
Air
Spring
(Load)
Axle
Lock Washer
Bolt
(Air Spring)
Figure 7.
RCA-215T Trailer Suspension
Refer to the engineering drawing for the individual component part number.
ENG Page 10 215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18
RCA 215T Trailer Suspension – Bushing Replacement Kit
Suspension
Type
All Models 6040078 6100044
All Models 6040128 6100044 Shear-Type
Failure to install and maintain suspension component fasteners at torque specifications could result in
suspension failure and void the warranty. Refer to the engineering drawing for torque values.
Replacement
Kit Part No.
Replacement
Tool Part No. Pivot Hardware
Traditional - Hex
Head Cap Screw-
HHCS/Lock Nut
Torque Specication
foot-pound Newton-meter
500 ft-lb 678 N-m
Do not lubricate bolt/nut threads.
Use a 1” drive impact wrench
to tighten pivot bolt until the
Torx® head is sheared off.
Bushing Replacement Procedure
Park the vehicle on a level surface. Chock wheels to keep vehicle from moving. Raise vehicle to height that
removes load from suspension and support with jack stands. Disconnect the linkage from the height control
valve(s), if equipped. Exhaust all air from the air system.
Failure to properly chock wheels, exhaust the air system and safely support the vehicle could allow
vehicle/suspension movement that could result in serious injury.
Disassemble suspension
Remove wheels and tires, if necessary. Remove pivot
hardware and alignment plate. Inspect the alignment
plate and repair/replace, as needed. Discard pivot
hardware (new hardware and wear washers are included in the bushing replacement kit).
Rotate trailing arm beams down and out of the hangers. Inspect the pivot bolt holes and the hanger surfaces for unusual wear or damage. Repair or replace
components, as needed.
3. Use a 3/4” drive impact wrench on the hex nut to
rotate the threaded rod and press the bushing out
of the beam eye into the cone.
NOTE: A small amount of heat may be required to
break the bond between the bushing and the beam
eye. Do not overheat. Allow beam to cool before
installing the new bushing.
4. Disassemble the bushing replacement tool. Remove old bushing from the cone and discard.
Bushing Removal
Bushing Replacement Tool-6100044
1. Lubricate the threads of the hex nut-threaded rod
assembly, the inside threads of the plunger, and
Hex Nut
Threaded Rod
Assembly
Bushing Removal
Cone Beam Eye
Plunger
the end cap bearing with grease.
2. Assemble the bushing replacement tool and place
on the eye of the beam (Figure 8).
End Cap
NOTE: Cone is tapered inside to a smaller opening
on one end.
Bushing Installation
2.1 Place the end cap on the hex nut-threaded rod
assembly. The end cap should be seated on the
ange of the hex nut. Place the larger opening
Hex Nut
Threaded Rod
Assembly
of the cone against the end cap.
2.2 Insert the threaded rod through the bushing
sleeve and center the tapered end of the cone
End Cap
on the beam eye.
2.3 Thread the plunger onto the threaded rod.
Rotate the plunger until the plate is seated
snugly against the bushing.
215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18 Page 11 ENG
Figure 8.
The tapered end of cone allows bushing to expand during removal.
Beam Eye Cone
Plunger
New Bushing Installation
Plunger
Plunger
1. Clean foreign debris/corrosion out of beam eye.
2. Liberally apply P80® lubricant or soap solution to
the inside of the beam eye, the outside of the bushing and the inside of the cone.
3. Cone is tapered inside to a smaller opening on one
end. Insert new bushing into the larger opening.
4. Assemble the bushing replacement tool and place
on the eye of the beam (Figure 9).
4.1 Place the end cap on the hex nut-threaded
rod assembly. The end cap should rest on the
ange of the hex nut.
4.2 Insert the threaded rod/end cap assembly
through the beam eye. Place the tapered end
of the cone onto the threaded rod and center
the cone on the beam eye.
4.3 Thread the plunger onto the threaded rod.
Rotate the plunger until the plate is seated
snugly against the bushing.
Hex Nut
Threaded Rod
Assembly
Hex Nut
Threaded Rod
Assembly
Bushing Removal
Cone Beam Eye
End Cap
Bushing Installation
Beam Eye Cone
End Cap
5. Use 3/4” drive impact wrench on the hex nut to
rotate threaded rod and press bushing into the
beam eye. NOTE: Hold the plunger with an open
end wrench to prevent the cone from rotating.
6. Disassemble and remove the bushing replacement
tool. Check the placement of the bushing to make
sure it is centered in the beam eye.
Reassemble suspension
Rotate trailing arm beams into hangers. Install pivot
connection hardware – alignment washers, adjuster
plates, wear washers, shear-type pivot bolt, at
washer and anged lock nut.
NOTE: Do not lubricate pivot bolt/nut. Tighten
anged lock nut until adjuster plate pin is engaged
and hardware is snug against hanger. Do not apply
nal torque until axle alignment has been checked.
Connect height control valve linkage, if necessary. In-
ate air springs. Install wheels and tires (if removed).
Raise vehicle and remove support stands. Lower
vehicle to ground.
Check axle alignment and realign, if necessary.
Tighten pivot bolt with a 1” drive impact wrench and
E-20 Torx® socket (Ridewell tool 6100054) until the
Torx® head is sheared o.
NOTE: If traditional pivot hardware is used, torque
to 500 ft-lb (678 N-m).
Figure 9.
Bushing Replacment Tool-6100044.
The tapered end of cone compresses the bushing for installation.
Failure to torque pivot hardware to specications can result in suspension failure and void the
warranty.
ENG Page 12 215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18
RCA-215T Trailer Suspension – Torque Specications
Fastener Type Size
APPENDIX
Torque Specications
foot-pound Newton-meter
Pivot Bolt - (Shear-Type)
Pivot Nut - (Lock Nut)
Requires E-20 Torx® socket (RW #6100054)
Pivot Bolt - Hex Head Cap Screw (HHCS)
Pivot Nut - (Lock Nut)
7/8” - 9NC
7/8”- 9NC
Lock Nut - (Air Spring) 1/2”-13NC
Lock Nut - (Air Spring) 3/4”-16NF
Bolt (HHCS)
Lock Nut - (Shock Absorber-Optional)
Torque values reflect a lubricated thread condition (Nuts are pre-lubed). Do not overtorque.
Suspension is shipped with minimal torque applied to fasteners. It is the installer’s responsibility
to apply the proper torque values. All fasteners, except shear-type pivot bolt, MUST be re-torqued after the
first 6,000 miles of operation. Failure to install and maintain fasteners at torque specifications could result in
suspension failure and void the warranty. Refer to the engineering drawing for torque specifications.
3/4”- 10NC
Do not lubricate bolt/nut threads.
Use a 1” drive impact wrench to tighten
pivot bolt until Torx® head is sheared off.
500 ft-lb 678 N-m
25 ft-lb 34 N-m
50 ft-lb 68 N-m
160-200 ft-lb 217-271 N-m
215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18 Page 13 ENG
Axle Alignment
Alignment should be performed on a level surface with the suspension at the desired ride height. Refer to the
engineering drawing for the designed ride heights of the suspension model.
Align the suspension per TMC or SAE recommended standards. On a multiple-axle vehicle, the forward axle
is moved into the proper alignment, then the remaining axles are positioned so that they are parallel to the
forward axle. A maximum tolerance of 1/8-inch dierence from side-to-side of the forward axle and 1/16-inch
dierence from side-to-side for the aft axles is acceptable (Figure 10).
C
D
Figure 10.
Kingpin measurement for alignment.
A
B
Check the forward axle alignment by
measuring from the kingpin to both ends
of the axle centers.
If the dierence between the “A” measurement and the “B” measurement is greater
than 1/8-inch, the forward axle needs to be
aligned.
If the dierence between the “C” measurement and the “D” measurement is greater
than 1/16-inch, the aft axle should be
adjusted into alignment.
ENG Page 14 215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18
Speed Set™ Alignment
The RCA-215 Auxiliary Axle Trailer Suspension is equipped with the Ridewell Speed Set® alignment feature
for simple, manual alignment of the axles.
Axle alignment procedure
1. Loosen the pivot nut enough for beam to move
within hanger. Position beam so that pivot bolt is
Torx
Head
Adjuster
Plate
Figure 11.
Move beam back-and-forth using adjuster plate
and breaker bar until axle is aligned.
centered within alignment slot on the hanger.
2. Locate the adjuster plate at the pivot connection.
Insert a 1/2”-shank breaker bar into the square
hole of the adjuster plate. Push on the breaker
bar to move the beam forward or backward until
the axle reaches the alignment measurements
(Figure 11).
NOTE: Check to make sure that the pivot bushing
is not wedged sideways during beam movement.
The adjuster plate and alignment washer should
move in unison with the beam.
3. Tighten the pivot nut so that the beam can no
longer move. Re-check alignment measurements
and adjust, if necessary.
NOTE: Check to make sure that both the adjuster
plate and alignment washer are at against the
beam before nal torque is applied.
4. Use a 1” drive impact wrench with an E-20 Torx
socket to tighten the pivot bolt until the Torx
head shearso.
Failure to properly torque pivot hardware
could result in catastrophic suspension failure and
void the warranty (See Torque Chart in Appendix).
®
215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18 Page 15 ENG
WARRANTY
T
erms and coverage in this warranty apply only to the United States and Canada.
Ridewell Suspensions warrants the suspension systems manufactured by it to be free of defects in material and workmanship. Warranty coverage applies only to suspensions that have been properly installed,
maintained and operated within the rated capacity and recommended application of the suspension. The
responsibility for warranty coverage is limited to the repair/replacement of suspension parts. The liability
for coverage of purchased components is limited to the original warranty coverage extended by the manufacturer of the purchased part.
All work under warranty must have prior wrien approval from the Ridewell warranty department. Ridewell has the sole discretion and authority to approve or deny a claim and authorize the repair or replacement of suspension parts. All parts must be held until the warranty claim is closed.
Parts that need to be returned for warranty evaluation will be issued a Returned Materials Authorization
(RMA). Parts must be returned to Ridewell with the transportation charges pre paid. The transportation
charges will be reimbursed if the warranty claim is approved.
This non-transferable warranty is in lieu of all other expressed or implied warranties or representations,
including any implied warranties of merchantability or tness or any obligations on the part of Ridewell.
Ridewell will not be liable for any business interruptions, loss of profits, personal injury, any costs of
travel delays or for any other special, indirect, incidental or consequential losses, costs or damages.
Contact the Ridewell Warranty Dept. at 417.833.4565 - Ext. 135, for complete warranty information.
ENG Page 16 215T-Trailer-ISM-RevC-06-06-18
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