an axle housing has a longitudinal pivotal connection to the frame enabling it to rock about an axis extending generally longitudinally of the direction of movement of the vehicle . one of the fore and aft sides of the axle housing has a transverse pivotal connection to the frame enabling the axle housing to tilt up and down , in addition to rocking about the longitudinal pivotal connection . spring means support the frame at the opposite side of the axle housing . the combination of rocking about the longitudinal pivotal connection , and up and down tilting about the transverse pivotal connection , absorbs shocks due to irregularities in the track or ground . the invention is applicable to non - railway vehicles , as well as the railway - type vehicles shown .