A vehicle’s suspension may often be overlooked or undervalued by the typical car shopper.
But to those in the Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) industry, the suspension of a firefighting vehicle is a critical component that should be closely evaluated based on a fire department’s needs.
TAK-4® independent suspension
The patented Oshkosh® TAK-4® independent suspension is engineered as a standard feature on the Oshkosh Striker® ARFF. This technology increases the mobility of vehicles and ensures the payload capacities of the Striker ARFF vehicle.
TAK-4 independent suspension uses springs and independent control arms
TAK-4 independent suspension uses springs and independent control arms that contribute to improved handling and performance. Increased ride quality reduces stress on other components of the vehicle and makes equal use of each axle.
- What is independent suspension?
Independent suspension is a type of suspension system that allows each wheel on the same axle to move vertically independently of the others, allowing for a smoother ride.
While there are other types of suspension systems, including leaf springs, rubber blocks, and air rides, independent suspension is the most common in ARFF vehicles because they are typically operated in areas where variations in terrain are an obstacle.
Bump steer
A common navigation challenge of ARFF vehicles is bump steer, which can occur when the vehicle does not have an independent suspension, causing the wheels to react to road conditions adversely, impacting steering.
When one wheel hits a pothole, the other wheel reacts in a way that causes the steering angle to change. This presents a safety hazard, particularly when human instinct is to overcorrect.
Incident response
Oshkosh vehicles equipped with TAK-4 independent suspension inherently will not experience bump steer
Worrying about how vehicles might react to terrain causes emergency responders to slow down; ultimately increasing the amount of time it takes to respond to an incident.
Oshkosh vehicles equipped with TAK-4 independent suspension inherently will not experience bump steer meaning the driver does not feel any motion from the suspension moving in the steering wheel, allowing them to concentrate on the response at hand.
- Why is independent suspension a key factor?
With independent suspension, each wheel has its shock absorber and spring, allowing each wheel to react to the unique road conditions that the wheel encounters. Not only is an independent suspension safer and faster, but it also allows for a larger range of movement, which improves maneuverability.
Developed by Oshkosh, TAK-4 independent suspension has evolved into the gold standard of mobility for heavy-duty vehicles, equipment, and fire apparatus. It enhances vehicle mobility, off-road speed, load-carrying capacity, and ride quality while controlling life cycle costs.
- Unique attributes of TAK-4 Independent Suspension
ARFF Vehicle Versatility
No matter the length or weight of your ARFF vehicle, the TAK-4 independent suspension will be capable of carrying the load. TAK-4 independent suspension is a universal technology that works on lightweight and heavyweight vehicles.
The suspension is scalable to vehicles of different sizes, while maintaining the same function
The suspension is scalable to vehicles of different sizes, while maintaining the same function and reliability. Suspensions are rated up to 31,000 pounds. for the Striker ARFF.
Each axle on the Striker ARFF has different payload capacities that must be met, and TAK-4 suspension makes this possible while reducing strain on the vehicle. Additionally, the 6x6 Striker ARFF vehicle comes with an optional mechanical rear steer on the third axle.
ARFF Vehicle Braking
Acceleration is key for ARFF vehicles, but braking capability is just as important. TAK-4 independent suspension also improves braking performance and shortens stopping distances on the Striker ARFF when compared to Striker ARFFs not equipped with this suspension.
Starting and stopping effectively with no delays are two key performance characteristics for success in fighting fires. The Striker ARFF is equipped with either FMVSS 121 or ECE R13 certified brakes and comes with both disc and drum brake options.
Combination of ARFF Truck Features and Performance
The TAK-4 independent suspension enhances vehicle mobility with improved driver feedback, high wheel articulation rates, and roll characteristics designed for the ARFF application. These characteristics aid the ARFF vehicle operator in navigating to and around a scene, both on and off the road.
Striker ARFF vehicles equipped with TAK-4 independent suspension have reduced stress on the axle and, therefore, increased mobility, which helps the vehicle exceed the NATO Lane Change Test. This tests the dynamic stability of the truck through motion changes as the vehicle drives in a straight line while avoiding obstacles.