SAF-HOLLAND has announced a major upgrade to its popular ULX40 mechanical sliding suspension and axle system. The new UltraLite40 slider is designed specifically for North American on-highway van and refrigerated trailers. By using advanced engineering and real-world data, the company has created a system that is both lighter and much tougher than previous models.

Built Using Real-World Data

The UltraLite40 wasn’t just designed in a lab. SAF-HOLLAND developed this slider using data collected from actual trucks hitting the road every day. They used this information to create an updated “test cycle.” This means the suspension was pushed to its limits to make sure it could handle the vibrations, bumps, and heavy loads that trailer floors face over hundreds of thousands of miles.

The result of this hard work is a system that is 3.6 times more durable than the older version. Even though it is stronger, it is also up to 30 pounds lighter. In the trucking world, every pound saved on equipment is an extra pound of cargo (payload) that a fleet can carry, which helps increase profits.

Smarter Design Features

The UltraLite40 is rated for 40,000 pounds and uses reliable spring-ride technology. The physical frame of the slider features an “open-style” C-rail design. The side rails are now 10 inches tall, providing extra strength where the trailer needs it most.

To help the system last longer, SAF-HOLLAND added hardened steel wear pads. These pads protect the hangers from wearing down over time. Additionally, the entire subframe comes with standard galvanization. This is a special coating that acts like a suit of armor against rust and road salt, which is a huge problem for trailers in winter climates.

Making the Driver’s Job Easier

One of the most physically demanding tasks for a driver is sliding the trailer axles to balance a load. The UltraLite40 comes standard with the Qwik Release pin pull system. This clever design reduces the physical effort needed to pull the locking pins by 20 percent.

For fleets that want even more convenience, there is an optional air-operated pin release. This allows the driver to retract the locking pins with the push of a button rather than pulling a handle manually. Other customizable options include:

• Air Disc Brakes: For better stopping power and safety.

• Integrated Tire Inflation: To keep tires at the perfect pressure automatically.

• Dressed Drum Packages: High-quality wheel-end components ready to roll.

Better Manufacturing for Higher Quality

SAF-HOLLAND didn’t just change the parts; they changed how those parts are made. The UltraLite40 was redesigned to support robotic welding. Using robots makes the welds more consistent and reliable than doing it all by hand. This streamlined process also reduces the number of different parts a fleet needs to keep in their inventory, making maintenance simpler and faster.

Availability

The UltraLite40 slider is expected to be available for trailer manufacturers and fleets in the fourth quarter of 2026. This new system aims to provide “premium performance” without a premium price tag, helping trailers stay on the road longer with fewer repairs.

For more information on the ULX40 system and the new UltraLite40 slider, visit www.safholland.com.

 

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