Isuzu extends its four-bag air suspension system across its 2008 F Series range
The arrival of Isuzu’s all-new 2008 F Series medium duty truck range expands the availability of the brand’s proprietary four-bag air suspension system to five models, the FRD 500, FSD 700, FSD 700-S, FSD 850 and FSD 850-S.
Isuzu’s load-cushioning four-bag air springs are specially designed to moderate shock and minimise vibration and work in tandem with the Australian-tuned shock absorbers.
According to a statement from Isuzu, this set-up is the ideal choice for the transportation of sensitive freight such as food stuff or delicate equipment.
Lending support and stability to the suspension system is a V-rod link to provide smooth axle movement, while Isuzu’s ‘Stabilinker’ provides added strength and stability between chassis and axle.
The rear suspension set-up has a height sensor designed to keep the cargo bed as level as possible at all times.
IAL Product Planning and Engineering Support Manager Simon Humphries says Isuzu’s four-bag air suspension provides several benefits for both operators and drivers.
“Isuzu’s air suspension dramatically reduces vibration across the truck body and cabin, which provides a much smoother ride for the load and driver in both laden and unladen conditions,” he says.
“Right and left height sensors also aid performance, reducing the risk of cargo collapse or damage when driving around corners or over uneven road surfaces.
“The benefits of this feature are compounded in cases where the freight is loaded to one side, a common scenario where multiple drops are involved.”
For added convenience and functionality Isuzu’s F Series airbag models feature a standard electronic in-cab adjustable height control unit with two memory settings for varying dock heights.
Complementing the rear suspension is a single stage alloy steel taper leaf spring pack up front, with double acting hydraulic shock absorbers and stabiliser bar.
Combined with the top-of-the-range ISRI 6860 suspension driver’s seat, Isuzu’s air bag models help minimise driver fatigue and improve comfort leading to occupational health and safety benefits.
“Isuzu estimates that the four-bag air suspension reduces vibration shocks within the vehicle cargo area to as little as one quarter of that experienced within an equivalent steel suspended truck, while in the cabin vibration levels are reduced by up to two thirds,” Humphries says.
All models feature standard equipment including driver’s SRS airbag, ABS brakes, Anti Skid Regulator (ASR), Hill Start Aid (HSA), and electric heated mirrors.