Tandem Drive Axles
Hypoid Single Reduction
RT-52-185 and RT-58-185
Product Summary
Meritor’s single-reduction RT-52-185 and
RT-58-185 tandem axles allow high input torque
with high 52,000 and 58,000 lb. gross axle
weight ratings (GAWR). A 19.62-inch ring gear
and large pinion provide high torque capacities
in ratios from 3.73 to 7.17. Two-piece forward
mounted carrier, a proven single-reduction rear
carrier and durable steel housings ensure long,
dependable service.
Tapered roller bearings, a rigid differential
case and triple-lip oil seals contribute to
extended axle life and reduced maintenance.
For maximum traction on slippery surfaces,
an optional rear carrier driver-controlled
differential lock (DCDL) is available.
The Meritor pump, a standard feature in the
forward carrier, provides positive lubrication in
both forward and reverse, to virtually eliminate
spin-out damage and extend axle life.
Application Summary
With GAWRs of 52,000 and 58,000 lbs., Meritor
offers single-reduction tandem axles for most
demanding jobs. Heavy-duty construction
vehicles such as dump trucks, heavy
equipment haulers, Michigan Specials and
cement mixers, as well as logging, mining, fire
and rescue applications, benefit from the
strength and dependability of Meritor’s
RT-52-185 and RT-58-185 single-reduction
tandem axles.
The RT-52-185 and RT-58-185 can be mated
with many suspension and brake variations
to match the tandems to specific vocational
requirements.
Features Benefits
Two-piece forward carrier design Provides rigidity and alignment
Front mounted carriers Easier servicing
Torsion flow axle shafts Greater resistance to shock loading
Unitized pinion seals Seal lips are completely encased to keep
lubricant in and help prevent installation and
contamination damage
Rugged, rectangular shaped hot formed Maximum strength and excellent rigidity
steel housings
Standard pump in forward carrier Virtually eliminates spin-out damage, and
extends the overall life of the axle
19.62" (498.3 mm) hypoid-Generoid gearing Higher torque handling ability, quieter
operation, longer life even at high gross
combination weights
Precision-forged differential gears Maximum strength and shock resistance
Spindle design variations available for Compatible with industry standard brake
heavy-duty applications and wheel-end equipment
Driver-controlled differential lock (DCDL) Provides maximum traction on slippery or
(Rear carrier option only) poor road conditions
Rigid bolted ring gear attachment Greater stability, improved durability

Specifications*: RT-52-185 and RT-58-185

GCW** HOUSING SIZE/
POUNDS (KG) WALL THICKNESS BRAKE TYPES GROUND AXLE SHAFT- BODY WHEEL
AXLE RATING HIGHWAY AT SPRING SEAT AND SIZES TRACK CLEARANCE STANDARD SPLINE SIZE DIAMETER END
MODEL LBS (KG) TURNPIKE PAVED INCHES (MM) INCHES (MM) INCHES (MM) (TIRE SIZE) RATIOS INCHES (MM) INCHES (MM) SERIES

RT-52-185 52,000 Cam-Master Q Standard 9.7” R

(23587) 16.5 x 7 72.24 (1834) (11.00 x 20)
(419 x 178) Optional
Cam-Master P 78.12 (1984)
245,000 215,000 5.50 x 5.50/0.56 (Cast Shoe) 3.73, 4.10, 2.35 2.25
(111132) (97524) (140 x 140/14.3) 16.5 x 7 4.30, 4.56, (59.7) (57.2)
(419 x 178)
18 x 7 4.89, 5.38, 46 Teeth
(457 x 178) 6.14, 6.83,
RT-58-185 58,000 Cam-Master P Standard 11.4” 7.17 U
(26309) (Cast Shoe) 74.06 (1881) (11.00 x 24)
16.5 x 7 Optional
(419 x 178) 72.12 (1831)
18 x 7 80.00 (2032)
(457 x 178)

* Permitted use of axles and components, including capacity ratings only where stated, vary with application and service. Applications should be approved by
Meritor Engineering. Approved ratings may be higher or lower than indicated above, dependent upon engineering review.
** Consult Meritor publication TP-9441 Axle Application Guidelines for more information.

The entire family of Meritor axles is an integral

member of Drivetrain Plus™ by Meritor, the
industry’s most complete drivetrain. For more
information, call 800-535-5560.

Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, LLC

2135 West Maple Road
Troy, Michigan 48084 U.S.A. © Copyright 1999 Revised 7-99
www.meritorauto.com Meritor Automotive, Inc. Litho in U.S.A. TP-9486 (47865/11900)