Cruisemaster ATX Suspension Quick Guide
This guide explains the key components, basic checks and routine service intervals for the Cruisemaster ATX independent suspension fitted to your Rhinomax camper. For full technical information, torque settings and detailed brake procedures, download the official Cruisemaster ATX User Guide below.
🧱 Key ATX Suspension Components
Knowing what’s under your Rhinomax helps you spot issues early and talk clearly with service agents.
ATX Trailing Arms & Stub Axles
Extra heavy-duty ATX arms with 63 mm stub axles carry the load and handle off-road impacts. They pivot on greasable hinges and bushes which must be serviced regularly.
Rolling Sleeve Airbags / Coil Springs
ATX can be configured with rolling sleeve airbags or heavy-duty coils. Airbag systems may be paired with a Cruisemaster Air Control Kit (manual or electronic height control).
Monotube Shock Absorbers
Remote-reservoir monotube shocks control wheel movement and ride comfort. Regular inspection for leaks, dents or damage is critical for safe off-road performance.
Brakes, Bearings & Adjusters
Options include electric drums or ventilated disc brakes, with Japanese bearings and automotive-grade seals. ATX uses lockable toe and camber adjusters for precise wheel alignment.
🛠️ Service Intervals & Routine Checks
The ATX suspension requires specific checks at early mileage and then at regular intervals to maintain warranty and performance.
First 100 km
- Re-torque all wheel nuts.
- Check suspension and shock mounting bolts for tightness.
- Visually inspect shocks, bushes and arms for any movement or interference.
First 1,000 km
- Re-check wheel nut torque.
- Grease hinge bushes and inspect for wear.
- Check wheel bearings and brake adjustment.
Every 10,000 km or 12 months
- Torque and inspect all suspension & shock bolts.
- Grease and inspect pivot bushes and hinges.
- Service wheel bearings and brakes (adjust or replace as required).
- Check wheel alignment and adjust toe/camber if needed.
Heavy off-road use, water crossings or corrugations may require more frequent inspection and servicing. Always log services in your suspension or camper service record.
🌬 Air Control System (If Fitted)
Some Rhinomax campers are fitted with a Cruisemaster Air Control Kit for ATX. Features vary depending on the level installed.
Basic / Manual Systems
- Rolling sleeve airbags with manual inflation points.
- 12V air compressor with manual switches.
- Pressure gauges (analog or digital) to monitor bag pressures.
Level 3 / BCS Systems
- Pre-wired control panel and digital display.
- Aluminium air tank with drain tap.
- Auto ride-height (“travel height”) modes and manual override.
Advanced Features (Selected Models)
- Auto horizon levelling when parked.
- Mobile app connectivity and ride-height presets.
- Advanced inflation / accessories modes (depending on configuration).
For exact features on your van, refer to your build sheet and the Cruisemaster ATX manual, as specifications can vary by model and year.
🧰 Brake & Wheel-Bearing Troubleshooting
Many towing issues trace back to brake adjustment, bearings or electrical faults. Use this as a quick guide before heading to a service agent.
Cold Brakes / Weak Braking
- Check brake adjustment (drums or calipers as applicable).
- Confirm magnets (electric drum brakes) or calipers are functioning and wired correctly.
- Inspect trailer wiring, resistors and controller settings for correct output.
- Ensure you have brakes fitted on every axle and that the system is not under-braked for the load.
Hot Brakes / Dragging
- Check that brakes are not over-adjusted or partially applied.
- Confirm controller is modulating correctly and releasing fully.
- Inspect for contaminated linings, sticking magnets or calipers that do not slide freely.
- Verify wheel bearing adjustment and that there is no excessive preload.
Trailer Pulls to One Side Under Braking
- Check for uneven pad or shoe wear side to side.
- Inspect for a seized or weak caliper / magnet on one side.
- Confirm tire pressures and matching tyre types on both sides.
- Inspect wheel bearings and rotor/drum surfaces for scoring or damage.
Noise, Vibration or Squeal
- Check pads/linings for glazing, contamination or excessive wear.
- Inspect rotors/drums for scoring, warping or out-of-round.
- Verify wheel bearings are correctly adjusted and in good condition.
- Ensure caliper brackets, backing plates and mounts are tight and not bent.
🚙 Off-Road Use & Safety Tips
Simple habits to maximise ATX performance and longevity on tough trips.
Pre-Trip Checks
Before long or remote trips, inspect shocks, bushes, airbags/coils, brake hoses and wiring. Re-torque wheel nuts and visually check for oil, grease or fluid leaks around hubs and brakes.
Post-Trip Inspection
After heavy corrugations or rough tracks, inspect for stone damage, bent brackets, loose fasteners, and play in the wheels. A quick check now can prevent expensive failures later.
Know When to Call a Specialist
If you feel unusual noise, vibration, wandering, or recurring brake problems, have the ATX system inspected by a Cruisemaster-authorised or experienced off-road suspension service agent.