78 • January 2015 www.concreteproducts.com
Charlotte, N.C.-based Fontaine Modification Vocational Services has
partnered with Simard Suspensions to install and distribute the Cana-
dian manufacturer's patented AMS twin-steer front suspension prod-
ucts in the United States and Mexico. Fontaine is the first post-pro-
duction installer to effect a long-term arrangement with Simard,
whose tandem steering components can significantly increase a vehi-
cle's load capacity without impacting maneuverability.
"The AMS twin-steer suspension can add payload to nearly any
vehicle, including concrete mixer, crane, front loader and dump
trucks. It is designed for heavy-duty on- or off-road use and has prov-
en itself in Canada, the United States, Australia and Latin America,"
says Fontaine Modification Vocational Services President Steve Boyer.
Fontaine will offer the full range of Simard AMS tandem suspen-
sions, which includes air and spring designs with up to 46,000 lb.
of capacity. The additional steering axle from a Simard AMS tandem
suspension helps drivers navigate comfortably in severe terrain on
construction sites or city streets. The twin steer offers optimal load
distribution while working within the original OEM wheel cut and
turning radius. AMS suspensions are designed to be lightweight to
reduce wear-and-tear on the vehicle, and serviceable parts are posi-
tioned in accessible areas for easy maintenance.
"Fontaine is going to make it much easier for truck users in the
U.S. and Mexico to get the most out of their vehicles," notes Simard
CEO David Tremblay. "With a tandem front suspension, customers
will safely increase their payload, thus optimizing the return on
their investment. This saves money and helps optimize resources."
— Fontaine Modification Vocational Services, 800/366-8246, www.
fontainemodification.com; Simard Suspensions, 800/423-5347, www.
simardsuspensions.com
Fontaine extends Simard twin-steer suspension availability across industry
INNOVATIONS REPORT
TRUCKS
Fontaine Modifcation Vocational Services will make Simard AMS installations
available at four of its centers across the U.S. The suspensions can be confg-
ured to ft nearly any heavy-duty OEM model.