Hendrickson Suspension Review

Suspension is an integral part of any car or truck. A suspension system supports the weight of a vehicle and absorbs any inconsistencies in the road (or off-road) terrain. Of the several suspension system manufactures on the market today, few are more tested or trusted than Hendrickson. With popular solutions like the AIRTEK NXT and INTRAMAAX system designed for trucks and trailers, Hendrickson suspension systems utilize innovative designs and quality engineering to deliver high-performing suspension solutions that last. On this page, learn more about the many features and options offered by Hendrickson, and shop Hendrickson suspension products online here at FinditParts.com.

Suspension Shopping: Factors to Consider

When shopping for a suspension to install in your car or truck, there are a number of factors to consider to find the right fit. The first factor is your vehicle itself. Certain suspension systems are only manufactured for specific applications; you won’t be able to fit a system made for a freight truck into a four-door sedan.

When beginning your search, start by checking which models are compatible with your vehicle. From there, you’ll want to assess your needs. Will you be driving around the neighborhood and taking the occasional road trip? Or will you be hauling big loads both on and off the road? Knowing your driving style helps determine which system is right for you. For heavy-duty applications where air management and braking are deeply connected, many operators rely on Haldex brake and air suspension systems to ensure these critical components work in perfect synchronization.

From a general standpoint, there are two primary types of suspension. The first, spring suspensions, use semi-elliptic leaf springs to absorb shock. The second, air suspensions, use pressurized air (similar to the kind found in brake systems) to absorb shock. The jury is still out as to which system is superior because each comes with its unique set of advantages. Spring systems tend to be more cost-effective and won't leak, but well-made air systems offer an adjustable ride that can be fine-tuned to the load. Furthermore, air systems behave differently during trailer-on-flatcar intermodal setups, as they will hang when a vehicle is lifted, whereas spring systems sit flush.

When choosing between them, it is smart to look at the latest heavy-duty truck components to see how modern engineering has improved durability and safety for both types. You’ll also want to research other parts of the assembly, including torsion bars, additional shocks (or dampeners), and lift kits—each of which can enhance comfort and performance across different terrain types.

Hendrickson Truck Suspension Systems: Solutions for Every Setting

No matter which type of suspension system you’ve settled on, you’ll find a Hendrickson product that works for you. A worldwide leader in vehicle suspensions, Hendrickson designs and manufactures spring and air suspension systems for vocational, highway, military and specialty use. Check out the sections below for information on some of Hendrickson’s most popular suspension systems.

• HAULMAAX: Design for vocational applications where hauling happens frequently, HAULMAAX suspension systems use rubber bolster springs paired with progressive load springs to provide a strong combination of empty ride quality and loaded stability.
• PRIMAAX: This severe-duty vocational air suspension system that utilizes state-of-the-art air suspension to minimize suspension-induced driveline vibration and improve stability overall. It is ideal for severe-service, vocational and heavy-haul applications.
• AIRTEK: The industry’s first front air suspension and steer axle system, AIRTEK is lightweight, highway-optimized suspension system ideal for vehicles of all sizes.
• AIRTEK NXT: Ideal for highway use, this system combines Hendrickson’s STEERTEK NXT axle and air suspension technology with a lightweight, integrated clamp group design to protect drivers from road irregularities with excellent longevity.
• AIRTEK TRANSIT: Engineered for buses and RVs, AIRTEK TRANSIT uses air suspension combined with Hendrickson’s STEERTEK NXT axle to increase roll stability to improve handling overall. features an innovative v-box system that eliminates the need for sway bars components, reducing complexity.

Hendrickson Trailer Suspension Systems

In addition to truck suspension systems, Hendrickson also engineers an expansive array of suspension systems for trailers. These units are built for maximum durability and are often the preferred choice for fleets looking to simplify their trailer maintenance schedules. Here are some of the most popular Hendrickson trailer suspension products:

• CONNEX: Designed for low-ride height applications that require a 12.25-inch brake package, the CONNEX air suspension and axle system features Hendrickson’s HT SERIES suspension and TRLAXLE trailer axle.
• INTRAMAAX: Ideal for straight-frame haulers trying to cut down on weight, the INTRAMAAX air suspension system has a capacity of 23,000 pounds in ride heights from 12 to 19 inches.’
• ULTRAA-K: An air slider system designed for van and refrigerated trailers, the ULTRAA-K features an optimized strength-to-weight ratio making it stronger than most competing 40k slider systems. The ULTRAA-K is also the lightest slider on the market by almost 100 pounds.

Hendrickson Suspension Systems: The Verdict

Receiving positive reviews across the board, Hendrickson suspension systems earn their place among the industry’s top products. While some reviewers note that comfort levels can vary depending on the specific model, most rate the ride quality as highly satisfactory. These systems are also well-regarded for their longevity, though some operators still prefer traditional coil springs over air systems for the most extreme off-road applications.

To maintain this high level of performance, it is important to monitor the condition of your dampers and mounting hardware. Drivers who stay alert for the common signs your truck needs new shocks, such as excessive bouncing or uneven tire wear, can ensure their Hendrickson suspension continues to provide a stable and safe ride for years to come.

Shop Hendrickson at FinditParts.com

If you are ready to purchase a high-quality Hendrickson truck or trailer suspension, we’ve got you covered. Shop our extensive online inventory here at FinditParts.com to find the perfect Hendrickson products for your needs at a price you can afford. Our catalog also features a wide variety of Bendix suspension and safety systems, allowing you to source all your critical chassis and braking components from a single, reliable shop.