TP-0675

Issued 06-06

Installing SimilAir™ Composite

Leaf Springs Onto Trailer
Suspensions
Technical Bulletin
Issued
1TP-0675
Technical
06-06 Bulletin

Hazard Alert Messages Holland/Binkley

Read and observe all Warning and Caution hazard alert messages in You can install SimilAir™ springs on Holland/Binkley Ultralite2,
this publication. They provide information that can help prevent Z-Frame and Duralite mechanical suspensions. Tandem axle
serious personal injury, damage to components, or both. suspensions require an asymmetrical spring that has one end longer
than the other (part number A3176P1082). A decal is affixed to the
longer end of the spring. Install the long end of the spring into the
How to Obtain Additional Maintenance
hangers.
and Service Information
A. On the front axle, install the long end of the spring into the front
Refer to Maintenance Manual 14, Trailer Axles. To obtain this hanger.
publication, call ArvinMeritor’s Customer Service Center at
800-535-5560, or visit Literature on Demand at meritorhvs.com. B. On the rear axle, install the long end of the spring into the rear
hanger.
Spring Selection C. On tri-axles, install a symmetrical spring (part number
A3176B1068) onto the middle axle.
Refer to Table A when selecting springs.
앫 Only install SimilAir™ springs in applications where the springs
Table A: Springs are over the axle. Install standard 3″ (76 mm) wide u-bolts, with
ArvinMeritor the u-bolt nuts below the axle.
Part Number GAWR Characteristic Application 앫 When you install the SimilAir™ spring, the steel half-round top
A3176B1068 22,400 lb Symmetrical with Hutchens and plate, which is usually clamped on top of the spring, has been
(10 160 kg) Jounce Bumper Reyco 21B replaced by an aluminum over-clamp and jounce bumper.
Figure 1.
A3176P1082 22,400 lb Asymmetrical Holland/Binkley
(10 160 kg) with Jounce and Reyco 앫 Adjust u-bolt length to accommodate the aluminum over-clamp
Bumper 86 - 88 and any changes in spring seat height.
앫 Adjust the axle seat height and u-bolt lengths to maintain
Off-Road and Severe-Duty Applications consistent trailer height when installing a SimilAir™ spring
Do not operate the suspension when the load exceeds instead of a steel spring. Refer to Table B.
22,400 pounds (10 160 kg) per axle. If the vehicle is operated in
off-road or severe-duty applications 10 percent of the time, or you
need installation information for optional equipment, please contact
Meritor at similair@arvinmeritor.com.
Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, LLC
88 Steadmantown Lane
Frankfort, KY 40601
FAX 502-695-6525
similair@arvinmeritor.com
Table B: Holland/Binkley Springs
Holland/Binkley Steel SRI Steel Spring Part Axle seat change to U-bolt change to use
Spring Part Number Number (Ref. only) Description use SimilAir™ vs steel SimilAir™ vs steel*
SPO354 TRA2726 High arch, 3 leaf 0 1″ (25.4 mm) longer
SPO324 TRA2752 High arch, 2 leaf 0 1″ (25.4 mm) longer
SPO355 TRA2727 Medium arch, 3 leaf 1″ (25.4 mm) shorter 0
SPO356 TRA2728 Low arch, 3 leaf 1-1/2″ (38.1 mm) 1/2″ (12.7 mm) shorter
shorter
SPO363 TRA021 Low arch, single 1-1/2″ (38.1 mm) 1/2″ (12.7 mm) longer
shorter

U-bolt length is typically 1″ (25.4 mm) plus the adjusted axle seat height. Do not use inverted 5″ (127 mm) diameter u-bolts with the SimilAir™
spring. Refer to Table C.

Table C: Holland/Binkley Adjustment Examples

Original Steel Spring Part Number SimilAir™ Spring Part Number Adjustment
Holland/Binkley SP363 A3176P1082 Use an axle seat that is 1-1/2-inches
(38.1 mm) shorter than the original. Use a
new u-bolt that is 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) longer
than the original.*
Holland/Binkley SP0356 A3176P1082 Use an axle seat that is 1-1/2-inch
(38.1 mm) shorter than the original. Use a
new u-bolt that is 1/2-inch (12.7 mm)
shorter than the original.*

*Add an additional 1″ (25.4 mm) to the u-bolt length when using “high nuts.”

Hutchens Industries 앫 Adjust u-bolt length to accommodate the aluminum over-clamp

and any changes in spring seat height.
Hutchens mechanical suspensions that can be fitted with the
SimilAir™ spring include the 9600 and 9700 Series with fabricated 앫 Adjust the axle seat height and u-bolt lengths to maintain
or cast hangers. Use the symmetrical spring A3176B1068 in all consistent trailer height when installing a SimilAir™ spring
Hutchens single, tandem and multi-axle suspensions. Each end of a instead of a steel spring. Refer to Table D.
symmetrical spring is the same length; and since the composite
spring is symmetrical, you can install either end of the spring into
the hangers and equalizer.
Hutchens suspensions with extra removable wear pads, or hangers
with limited spring free play (LSF), cannot be packaged with a
SimilAir™ spring.
앫 Only install SimilAir™ springs in applications where the springs
are over the axle. Install standard 3″ (76 mm) u-bolts, with the
u-bolt nuts below the axle.
앫 When you install the SimilAir™ spring, the steel half-round top
plate, which is usually clamped on top of the spring, has been
replaced by an aluminum over-clamp and jounce bumper.
Figure 1.

TP-0675
Issued 06-06 (16579/22882)
Page 2 Copyright ArvinMeritor, Inc., 2006 Printed in USA
Table D: Hutchens Industries
Hutchens/Standen SRI Steel Spring Axle seat change to U-bolt change to use
Steel Spring Number Number (Ref. only) Description use SimilAir™ vs steel SimilAir™ vs steel
354-00 TRA2756 High arch, 3 leaf 1″ taller 2″ longer
16710-01 TRA2757 WIN-1 (2 stage, 2 leaf) 0 1″ longer
355-00 TRA2727 Medium arch, 3 leaf 1/2″ shorter 1/2″ longer
356-00 TRA2728 Low arch, 3 leaf 1-1/2″ shorter 1/2″ shorter
363-00 TRA021 Low arch, single 1-1/2″ shorter 1/2″ longer

U-bolt length is typically 1″ (25.4 mm) plus the adjusted axle seat height. Do not use inverted 5″ (127 mm) diameter u-bolts with the SimilAir™
spring.

Examples
앫 When installing SimilAir™ spring A3176B1068 in place of a
354-00 steel spring, and you will need an axle seat that is 1″
(25.4 mm) taller than the original, as well as u-bolts that are 2″
(51 mm) longer than the original, to provide an installation with
an equivalent ride height.
앫 When installing SimilAir™ spring A3176B1068 in place of a
356-00 steel spring, and you will need an axle seat that is
1-1/2″ (38 mm) shorter than the original, as well as u-bolts that
are 1/2″ (12.7 mm) shorter than the original, to provide an
installation with an equivalent ride height.
B. On the rear axle, install the long end of the spring into the rear
hanger.
C. On tri-axles, install a symmetrical spring (part number
A3176B1068) onto the middle axle.
D. SimilAir™ springs mounted to a Reyco and Granning 21B
mechanical suspension require a symmetrical spring, part
number A3176B1068. Since this spring is symmetrical, either
end can mount into the hanger.
앫 Only install SimilAir™ springs in applications where the springs
are over the axle. Install standard 3″ (76 mm) u-bolts, with the
u-bolt nuts below the axle.

Reyco and Granning
SimilAir™ springs can be installed on Reyco and Granning 86 and
88 series mechanical suspensions. Tandem axle suspensions
86 and 80 require an asymmetrical spring that has one end longer
than the other (part number A3176P1082). A decal is affixed to the
longer end of the spring. Install the long end of the spring into the
hangers.
A. On the front axle, install the long end of the spring into the front
hanger.
앫 When you install the SimilAir™ spring, the steel half-round top
plate, which is usually clamped on top of the spring, has been
replaced by an aluminum over-clamp and jounce bumper.
Figure 1.
앫 Adjust u-bolt length to accommodate the aluminum over-clamp
and any changes in spring seat height.
앫 Adjust the axle seat height and u-bolt lengths to maintain
consistent trailer height when installing a SimilAir™ spring
instead of a steel spring. Refer to Table E.

Table E: Reyco and Granning Springs

Reyco and Granning SRI Steel Spring
Steel Spring Part Part Number (Ref. Axle seat change to use U-bolt change to use
Number only) Description SimilAir™ vs steel SimilAir™ vs steel*
0079-01 TRA3340 High arch, 3 leaf 0 1″ (25.4 mm) longer
0179-01 TRA072 High arch, single 1/2″ (12.7 mm) taller 1-1/2″ (38.1 mm) longer
0693-00 TRA3349 Medium arch, 3 leaf 1″ (25.4 mm) shorter 0
0079-02 TRA3341 Low arch, 3 leaf 1-1/2″ (38.1 mm) shorter 1/2″ (12.7 mm) shorter
0179-02 TRA073 Low arch, single 1-1/2″ (38.1 mm) shorter 1/2″ (12.7 mm) longer

U-bolt length is typically 1″ (25.4 mm) plus the adjusted axle seat height. Do not use inverted 5″ (127 mm) diameter u-bolts with the SimilAir™
spring. Refer to Table F for examples.

TP-0675
(16579/22882) Issued 06-06
Printed in USA Copyright ArvinMeritor, Inc., 2006 Page 3
Table F: Reyco and Granning 86 and 80 Adjustment Examples
SimilAir™ Spring
Original Steel Spring Part Part Number (Ref.
Number only) Adjustment
Reyco and Granning 0179-01 A3176P1082 Use an axle seat that is 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) taller than the original. Use a new
u-bolt that is 1-1/2-inches (38.1 mm) longer than the original.*
Reyco and Granning 0079-02 A3176P1082 Use an axle seat that is 1-1/2-inches (38.1 mm) shorter than the original. Use
a new u-bolt that is 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) longer than the original.*

*Add an additional 1″ (25.4 mm) to the u-bolt length when using “high nuts.”

Installation Procedure 4. If it is necessary to change the spring heights, disconnect the

radius rods and remove the axle from under the trailer. Use
Figure 1
care when you remove the original axle seats from the axles.
SimilAir™ SPRING Refer to the axle manufacturer’s instructions. Refer to the
STEEL
suspension manufacturer’s instructions for correct welding
WEAR JOUNCE procedures to install the new axle seats. Always use new
PLATE BUMPER fasteners when you reattach the radius rods to the axles.
COMPOSITE
SPRING 5. Determine if the suspension requires a modification of the
retainer bolt location in the hangers and equalizers to
accommodate the SimilAir™ composite springs, which are
thicker than steel springs. Refer to the following
recommendations for each manufacturer.
ALUMINUM Holland/Binkley
OVER CLAMP
4006229a A. Suspensions must have an extra hole located directly
Figure 1 behind the center retainer bolt hole in the rear hanger. If
there is not a hole in this location, drill a 5/8-inch
(15.875 mm) diameter hole 1-1/2-inches (38.1 mm)
WARNING directly behind the center hole. Use this hole for
To prevent serious eye injury, always wear safe eye protection SimilAir™ spring retainer bolts. Figure 2.
when you perform vehicle maintenance or service.
B. If Holland/Binkley has provided two retainer bolt mounting
Park the vehicle on a level surface. Block the wheels to holes in the equalizer, use the bottom hole with SimilAir™
prevent the vehicle from moving. Support the vehicle with springs. Figure 2.
safety stands. Do not work under a vehicle supported only by
jacks. Jacks can slip and fall over. Serious personal injury and
Figure 2

damage to components can result. HOLLAND/BINKLEY

Verify that all personnel are clear of the trailer before you raise
and lower the trailer. The trailer suspension system has
various pinch-points that can cause serious personal injury. 1-1/2”
(38.1 MM)
Use bottom TO REAR
1. Wear safe eye protection. location. OF EXISTING
HOLE
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface. Block the wheels to prevent SPRING SEAT
the vehicle from moving. RISER HEIGHT
4006230a
3. Remove the existing springs. It may be necessary to remove
Figure 2
the retainer bolts from the rear hangers and equalizer rocker.

TP-0675
Issued 06-06 (16579/22882)
Page 4 Copyright ArvinMeritor, Inc., 2006 Printed in USA
 Reyco and Granning
A. The 21B suspension does not require a hanger
modification. However, the 86 and 88 series suspensions
may require a rear hanger retainer bolt modification.
B. If Reyco and Granning has not provided two holes in the
rear hanger, drill a 5/8-inch (15.87 mm) diameter hole
7/8-inch (22.225 mm) directly behind the existing center
retainer bolt hole. Use this hole for SimilAir™ spring
retainer bolts. Figure 3.
8. Install new u-bolts. Lightly oil the threads and hand-tighten the
u-bolts and nuts. Do not fully tighten the u-bolts at this time.
9. Insert the jounce bumper into the aluminum over-clamp.
Ensure that the bumper is fully seated in the over-clamp
saddle. Verify that the contact position between the jounce
bumper and the suspension frame is centered.
앫 If the contact position is offset: Install additional brackets
to the frame directly above the jounce bumper. Figure 5.
Figure 5

Figure 3

REYCO AND GRANNING BRACKET

7/8” OFFSET CONDITION

(22.225 MM) WITH ADDITIONAL
4006231a BRACKET

Figure 3 4006232a

Figure 5
Hutchens Suspensions
The Hutchens 9600 and 9700 suspensions with fabricated and
CAUTION
cast hangers can be packaged with SimilAir™ springs without
When you install a SimilAir™ spring, verify that the jounce
modifications. Figure 4.
bumper either contacts the trailer frame, or the gap between
Figure 4
the jounce bumper and the frame is not more than 1/4″
(6.35 mm). If the gap is more than 1/4″ (6.35 mm), add
HUTCHENS
spacers to eliminate the gap or reduce it to 1/4″ (6.35 mm) or
less to prevent damage to components.

Verify that the jounce bumper is fully-seated in the saddle and

does not interfere with an air tank or any suspension bracket
to prevent damage to components.

4006178a 10. Ensure that the axles and trailer are on a level surface. Lower
Figure 4
the trailer onto the suspension. Verify that the spring is
centered and seated correctly in the equalizer rockers and
hangers. Verify that the jounce bumper either contacts the
6. Drill the new retainer bolt hole into the hanger (if necessary).
trailer frame, or the gap between the jounce bumper and the
Inspect the bolts for wear and damage. Replace worn or
frame is not more than 1/4″ (6.35 mm).
damaged retainer bolts.
앫 If the gap is more than 1/4″ (6.35 mm): Add spacers to
7. Insert the SimilAir™ spring into the hanger and equalizer.
the trailer frame to eliminate the gap, or reduce it to 1/4″
앫 If you are installing an asymmetrical spring (part (6.35 mm) or less. If you do not add spacers to correct the
number A3176P1082): A decal will indicate which leg of gap, damage to components may result.
the spring is longer. Install the longer ends of the spring into
the front and rear hangers, and the shorter ends of the
spring into the equalizer rocker. Refer to Table B and
Table E for axle seat and u-bolt changes.

TP-0675
(16579/22882) Issued 06-06
Printed in USA Copyright ArvinMeritor, Inc., 2006 Page 5
 WARNING
After you install a SimilAir™ composite leaf spring onto a
trailer suspension, verify that fasteners are tightened to the
correct torque specification. Inspect suspension components
for wear and damage. Replace worn or damaged components.
Loose fasteners, and worn or damaged components can cause
serious personal injury and damage to components when the
vehicle is returned to service.

11. Correctly position and install the retainer bolts.

12. Tighten all fasteners to the suspension manufacturer’s torque
specifications.
13. Align the axles according to the suspension manufacturer’s
recommendations.
14. Check fastener torque at regular preventive maintenance
intervals. Refer to the suspension manufacturer’s
recommendations.

Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, LLC Information contained in this publication was in effect at the time the publication was approved for printing and is subject to
2135 West Maple Road change without notice or liability. Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, LLC, reserves the right to revise the information presented or
Troy, MI 48084 USA to discontinue the production of parts described at any time.
800-535-5560
Copyright 2006 TP-0675
arvinmeritor.com
ArvinMeritor, Inc. Issued 06-06
All Rights Reserved Printed in USA (16579/22882)