The California Highway Patrol's Commercial Vehicle Section has identified a problem with excessive movement of the drive axles on 1996 to 2001 Kenworth truck tractors equipped with the Airglide 200 Air-Spring Suspension System. The amount of axle shifting meets the North American Uniform Out-of-Service Criteria for suspension and axle parts/members. Kenworth says that re-designed replacement components are available and anyone requesting additional information should contact Kenworth at (425) 828-5000.

The affected truck tractor mileage range is between 70,000 and more than 300,000 miles, with the suspension problem occurring in vehicles with standard and higher horsepower rated engines. Excessive movement in the suspension system allows the axle to shift from its normal operation position.

The Airglide is designed to allow axles a minor amount of movement when the vehicle is being driven or turned.

The degree of axle movement, as found by CHP inspection personnel, is considered excessive and may impact the handling of the vehicle.