Running Gear FAQ’s

Q: What is meant by the term RUNNING GEAR?

A: In layman’s language it is simply the mechanical apparatus used to “move” and “direct movement” of an otherwise immobile object safely and efficiently.

Q: How did Aerol get into the RUNNING GEAR business?

A: As technology advances, AEROL, identifies with the transitional needs of the commercial and military industries. “Necessity has always been the Mother of invention” and AEROL’s policy has been to fill the need when it arises.

Q: How did AEROL approach their running gear concept?

A: After years of experience in the materials handling field, AEROL CO. approached the development of the RUNNING GEAR by first formulating a concept of the desirable features of RUNNING GEAR components for trailers and mobile ground equipment. Out of this in-depth study of the many facets of mobility for ground equipment, plus careful consideration of the military specifications, a list of the desirable features evolved.

Q: What are the features most desirable in RUNNING GEAR?

A: Read the 8 Answers Below

(1) Adaptability to virtually all types of trailer configurations.

(2)A wide range of load capacities.

(3) Simplicity of installation and maintenance.

(4) A wide range of tire sizes.

(5) Parking and/or service brakes.

(6) Compactness.

(7) Simplicity of design, using a minimum of component parts, with interchangeability to reduce spares requirements and thereby simplify logistic support.

(8) Effective shock absorption for the protection of equipment being handled.

Q: What then?

A: An extensive program for the design, testing and production of RUNNING GEAR components was launched by AEROL CO., and resulted in the development of a complete selection of equipment that satisfies all aims of

Aerol Specifics

Q: What specific running gear units and coordinated components evolved from AEROL’s concept?

A: The AEROL BANJO MOUNT for loads up to 1000 pounds per wheel, and the AEROL SAM SUSPENSION UNIT, for heavier loads up to 10,000 pounds per wheel. Both have gained wide acceptance in military and commercial applications.

Q: Can you give an idea of some of the features of these units?

A: Sure!

(1) Individual, self-contained, side mounting precludes the necessity for a through the axle. This allows unlimited trailer design flexibility and fully cradles the pay-load. Ground clearance, regardless of sheel size, is at the discretion of the designer since the chassis can be raised or underslung.

(2) By simply varying the quantity or capacity of springs the same basic unit can handle a wide range of loads and EACH corner can be tailored for when an asymmetrically located center of gravity results in unequal loads on each wheel.

(3) Four standard bolts are all that is required to install the entire shock mount, wheel and brake assembly.

(4) With standard stub axles, wheel sizes can vary from a small 13 inch diameter to large over-the-road transport pneumatics.

(5) Brakes mounting flanges on both the BANJO and the SAM are compatible with AEROL parking brakes and AEROL hydraulic service brakes. 

(6) There are no shock mount assemblies more compact than the AEROL units.

(7) The component parts of the AEROL SAM unit are completely inter- changeable between front and rear, left or right. Almost all of the component parts of the AEROL BANJO units are interchangeable one with another except for the back mounting plates between the non- steerable and steerable units.

(8) Years of testing, actual application and recordings by electronic accelerometers have proven many times over that the AEROL shock mounts can provide the best shock absorbing protection for your equipment.

Q: Is it safe then to assume the components – wheels, brake system, and steering linkages- offer utility and interchangeability?

A:  Yes. The coordinated components insure optimum utilization of the BANJO and SAM units and permit a high degree of interchangeability for efficient logistics support.