Hendrickson Introduces SOFTEK® Front Steer Axle and Suspension System for Peterbilt
For Immediate Release
For more information contact:
Dustin Lancy
Hendrickson
(330) 489-0050
dlancy@hendrickson-intl.com
Integrated front steer axle and monoleaf suspension system helps fleets reduce weight, increase payload, and extend service intervals
WOODRIDGE, IL – Hendrickson, a global leader in suspension technology and axle systems for commercial vehicles, is proud to introduce SOFTEK®, a lightweight, integrated front steer axle and monoleaf suspension system, for heavy-duty truck and tractor applications rated at 12,500 and 13,200 pounds on Peterbilt 567 and 579 models.
By combining the STEERTEK™ NXT steer axle, monoleaf spring technology, and a traditional clamp group design, SOFTEK delivers significant weight savings versus competitor configurations while maintaining industry-standard architecture that supports familiar installation and service practices.
SOFTEK is the lightest weight front steer axle and suspension system available at Peterbilt for the 567 and 579 models, providing customers with up to 74 pounds of weight savings versus standard front axles and multi-leaf spring suspensions. These significant weight savings help fleets increase payload capacity and improve operational efficiency. The STEERTEK NXT axle also provides reduced maintenance through its extended recommended service intervals, two-piece knuckles, and outstanding warranty coverage.
STEERTEK NXT steer axle
- Features a box-shaped cross section and continuous beam architecture
- Resists horizontal, vertical, and twisting forces more effectively than traditional I‑beam axles
- Integrated Air Disc Brake (IADB) knuckle option eliminates the need for a separate torque plate and fasteners, reducing part count for weight savings at the wheel end
- Unique two-piece knuckle design eliminates the need to remove the kingpin to service the bushings, providing easier, less expensive service
- Premium kingpin bushings and seals improve bushing life, extending recommended service intervals up to 100,000 miles
Monoleaf spring suspension
- Eliminates interleaf friction for improved ride and comfort
- Provides enhanced handling and increased roll stability
- Supports confident front-end performance for on-highway truck and tractor applications
Lightweight, integrated system design
- Delivers maximum weight savings through efficient system design
- Traditional clamp group design allows for ease of assembly and service
- Reduces system weight versus comparable front wide-track axles with two-leaf spring suspensions
Warranty coverage that reinforces reliability
SOFTEK is backed by long-term warranty coverage on the STEERTEK NXT steer axle, including 10‑year / 1‑million‑mile Structural Warranty and 5‑year / 750,000‑mile Spindle-to-Spindle Warranty coverage. This warranty package reinforces reliability and front-end component longevity, giving fleets confidence in uptime and aligning with Hendrickson’s “Reliable by Design” brand promise.
ABOUT HENDRICKSON
Hendrickson, a Boler company, is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of medium- and heavy‑duty mechanical, elastomeric, and air suspensions; integrated and non‑integrated axle and brake systems; tire pressure control systems; auxiliary lift axle systems; parabolic and multi‑leaf springs; stabilizers; bumpers; and other components for the global commercial transportation industry. Based in Woodridge, IL, USA, Hendrickson has served the transportation industry for more than 100 years. Visit www.hendrickson-intl.com.
