Cruisemaster XT Suspension System Owner’s Guide
Your complete guide to operating, maintaining, and understanding the Cruisemaster XT All-Terrain Suspension System fitted to your Rhinomax camper. This guide covers both XT Air and XT Coil (Spring) versions.
⚙️ Overview: XT Air vs XT Coil
The Cruisemaster XT system is one of Australia’s most proven all-terrain suspension platforms. Built for long-term durability and premium ride control, it’s available in two configurations depending on your Rhinomax model and load requirements.
XT Air Suspension
• Firestone airbags
• Adjustable ride height
• Smoother on-road & off-road comfort
• Ideal for varying loads (water, gear, firewood)
• Supports air-levelling when stationary
• Optional digital control systems & auto-levelling
XT Coil (Spring) Suspension
• Premium X5K King Springs
• G35/G40 shocks (single or dual)
• Lower maintenance
• Consistent load handling
• Available in straight or drop-axle height options
• Excellent durability for long-term ownership
Important Compatibility Notes
• Both XT Air and XT Coil systems support electric drum brakes or hydraulic ventilated disc brakes.
• The XT system is only compatible with Cruisemaster drum brake assemblies (not third-party drums).
• Drum → Disc upgrades are possible using Cruisemaster bolt-on caliper assemblies.
Cruisemaster Warranty
• Lifetime warranty on XT suspension arms
• 12–36 months on other suspension components
• Warranty claims require the XT ID Plate number
• Full policy available via Cruisemaster website
🔍 Key Features of the XT System
Features vary slightly between Air and Coil, but all XT systems share the same engineering foundations.
- 50mm stub axles with reinforcing plates & jacking points
- Adjustable toe & camber
- Polyurethane bump stops & bushes
- G35 or G40 shock absorbers
- Built-in cable tray & handbrake routing
- Electric drum brake or ventilated hydraulic disc brake options
- Japanese bearings & automotive-grade seals
- Two height configurations (straight axle or drop axle)
- Retrofit-ready brake system with bolt-on calipers
💨 XT Air: Operation & Ride Height
XT Air systems use Firestone airbags and a Cruisemaster Air Control Kit for adjustable ride height and levelling.
Setting Correct Ride Height
Measure vertical gap between bump stop & strike plate:
• 65mm → 1.4T single / 2.8T tandem
• 75mm → 1.7T single / 3.4T tandem
• 85mm → 2.6T single / 4.5T tandem
Use the Cruisemaster Ride Height Indicator for quick visual reference.
On-Road Operation
• Keep system voltage above 12.0V
• Compressor runtime increases as voltage decreases
• Standard operating pressure: 50–90 psi
• Max pressure: 100 psi
Levelling at Camp
• Airbags may be used to level the van when stationary
• Keep brakes off while levelling
• Do not drive above 10 km/h if outside standard ride height
Loss of Air / Emergency Use
• The XT can be driven slowly on bump stops
• Reduce tyre pressure for extra cushioning
• Inspect airbags & clear sand, gravel, stones
🟧 XT Coil: Operation & Characteristics
Premium King Springs provide predictable load handling with reduced maintenance requirements.
Characteristics
• Excellent long-distance touring stability
• No air lines, compressors, tanks or sensors
• Lower long-term maintenance
• Ideal for consistent load setups
Maintenance
• Inspect shocks for leaks
• Grease hinges & bushes regularly
• Replace springs only if sagging or damaged
🧰 Maintenance Schedule
Regular servicing is essential for long-term suspension performance and warranty protection.
- First 100 km → Torque all bolts & wheel nuts
- First 1,000 km → Wheel bearing check
- Every 10,000 km / 12 months → Full service
- Every long trip → Visual inspection for leaks, wear & debris
- Off-road / corrugations → Increased service frequency