A suspension mechanism for a rotary rake implement incorporates elastomeric shock absorbing members in the corners of a tubular member situated in between the corners of a square rod formed as part of the wheel assembly and received within the tubular member such that the corners of the square rod assert a pre-load spring force on the tubular member when the implement is in an extended operating configuration. The movement of the implement into a folded transport configuration with the weight of the implement supported on the transport wheel assemblies causes a deflection of the square rod that compresses the elastomeric shock absorbing members within the corners of the tubular member to provide maximum suspension for the implement when in transport, while providing minimum suspension when the implement is in operation. An end cap on the square rod engages a stop formed on the tubular member to control rotation.