Triangle Suspension Systems announced the start of vehicle testing with its new, lightweight Mack camelback leaf spring.

Triangle President Rick Kempski said the on-vehicle tests have begun with the new lightweight replacement spring for the popular Mack camelback suspension. "This spring has been developed in our new Mount Olive, N.C., taper spring plant and allows weight-sensitive fleets to save over 225 pounds per vehicle without sacrificing performance. Initial results have been very positive and we expect the field testing to continue through the summer months. We expect these new springs will be available later this year."

The new spring uses specially alloyed materials and the latest manufacturing process to improve durability and reduce variation from spring to spring, according to the company. Preliminary laboratory tests show that the predicted durability of the new spring is significantly higher than conventional springs. The new spring was also designed to mate with all existing components; only a shorter U-bolt is required.