STEERING LOCK MECHANISM FOR HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLE AXLE/SUSPENSION SYSTEM

A steering lock mechanism for a steerable axle/suspension system includes a pair of independent tie rods, each one connected to a respective one of a pair of pivoting ends of a steerable axle/suspension system and also connected to a steering bracket that is pivotally connected to the axle of the steerable axle/suspension system. A primary lock assembly, which includes an air spring, and a secondary lock assembly are operatively connected to the steering bracket and to the steerable axle/suspension system. When the air spring of the primary lock assembly is inflated with air or when the secondary lock assembly is activated, the steering bracket is prevented from pivoting and in turn the first and second tie rods are prevented from moving transversely, so that the steerable axle/suspension system is locked into a generally straight travel position during operation of the vehicle.